Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?<br /><br />Many people with ADHD find their symptoms improve by taking medication. Each person's reaction to drugs is different, and side effects can be problematic.<br /><br />Methylphenidate is part of a group of medications called stimulants. It works by raising levels of a chemical within the brain that aids in controlling the attention span and behavior.<br /><br />Stimulant medications<br /><br />Stimulants enhance attention and concentration in 70% to 80percent of children and adults who take them. They alter neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Typically, they trigger an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. This is why experts recommend that patients begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the appropriate dose over a period of weeks.<br /><br />Stimant medication is taken by mouth, usually at least once or twice per day. They are generally available in short- and long-acting formulations. Short-acting stimulants begin to show their effects within a couple of hours and are required to be taken three times per day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once a day.<br /><br /><br /><br />These drugs may cause unwanted adverse effects, like insomnia, nausea, and loss of appetite. They may also make some people moody or angry however these effects typically disappear over time and are often managed by adjusting the dosage. In some cases, stimulants can cause changes in personality, such as becoming withdrawn, listless or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, such as mania and depression.<br /><br />The majority of stimulants are controlled substances, and require the prescription of a doctor. They are frequently used by adults and teens to achieve performance enhancement, and they could cause addiction if taken in a way that is not prescribed. Because of the dangers, doctors are cautious in assessing the need for stimulant drugs and to monitor dosage and adverse effects closely.<br /><br />Non-stimulant medications<br /><br />There are many non-stimulant ADHD medicines and the most effective one is dependent on the person. <a href="https://bjerring-villarreal.thoughtlanes.net/a-proactive-rant-about-types-of-adhd-medication">medications for adhd</a> are prescription drugs, but they do not act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely to have negative side effects however they may take longer to effect and only last for a period of 24 hours. Most of these drugs work by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.<br /><br />Psychotherapy<br /><br />Talk therapy can teach a person how to cope with the symptoms and learn new strategies for coping, such as stress management or impulsivity control. BetterHelp is a company that provides online therapy connects people with licensed therapists with expertise in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. You can find a therapist within 48 hours after taking a free online assessment. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can help people with ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability of focus however, they do not address the underlying causes. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach someone techniques to control an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These methods can be learned through an ADHD coach or by practicing them with a therapist who is trained. They can also be taught to caregivers and parents so that they can support the child or adult with ADHD in these areas. In certain cases it is suggested to combine medications and talk therapy might be the best approach.<br /><br />