ADHD and Medication
Medications can help people with ADHD concentrate, control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior and complete tasks. They can also help reduce anxiety and depression.
Stimulants are among the medications that are most commonly prescribed to children and teens suffering from ADHD. Amphetamines, like Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Focalin are among the most commonly prescribed stimulants. Doctors monitor children closely to look for signs of addiction.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed medication by doctors for ADHD is stimulants. They are thought to work by increasing activity in parts of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, is also available in amphetamines and a newer drug known as quebrachine (brand name: Quelbree). Doctors may recommend long-acting or extended release formulations of these drugs to ensure that the drugs build slowly within the body, and wear off more gradually. This will help reduce adverse effects and decrease the chance of experiencing an abrupt "rebound" effect as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe that stimulants can aid those suffering from ADHD because they increase levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter in the brain. Dopamine helps to boost concentration and focus and to reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness. These drugs can also boost the activity of neurons that transmit signals to the nucleus of accumbens which is involved in motivation and pleasure as well as reward.
Research suggests that those with ADHD have lower than normal dopamine levels in the frontal cortex, an area of the brain that is responsible for these "executive" functions such as organizing and planning. visit the up coming internet page can lead to issues with time management, performing tasks, and reducing emotions. Research also suggests that stimulant drugs could aid in improving the functioning of the frontal cortex in people with ADHD by preventing the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Some people with ADHD are not able to respond to stimulant medication or aren't tolerant of these medications. This could be due to the possibility of abuse or addiction or intolerance to certain side effects such as jitteriness and insomnia. In these instances, alternative treatments may be suggested, including atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD because they are thought to improve attention in some patients and carry a low risk of abuse or addiction.
In certain instances, psychoeducation is given, which aims to help adolescents, children and adults recognize the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists can employ the behavioural therapy method to help people change their habits and behaviors.
There's a lot of debate over whether ADHD exists at all and If it does, what the causes might be. Some people advocate stricter diagnostic criteria and an end to prescribing stimulants to any person who doesn't meet these criteria. Others advocate non-stimulant treatment that is as effective and has fewer side consequences. There is an increasing movement to encourage more behavioral change. This is more effective over the long term than medication. This can include a range of psychological strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and problem-solving training. It can also include parenting skills, which can aid in reducing anxiety and distraction in the home environment. Other methods of influencing behavior, such as reward based training and family counseling are also beneficial.