Medication For adhd Medication Cost - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people who suffer from ADHD experience a reduction in symptoms when they take medication. Each person's reaction to drugs is different, and side effects are sometimes problematic.

Methylphenidate is part of a group of medications called stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a substance in the brain that helps control attention and behavior.

Stimulant medication

Stimulants enhance attention and concentration in 70% to the 80% of adults and children who use them. They alter neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine in the brain. Typically, they trigger an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for several hours. This is why many experts recommend that people begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the optimal dose over the course of weeks.

Stimant medications are taken by mouth, typically once or twice a day. Most are available in both long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a short time and should be taken 3 times a day; long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken only once every day.

These drugs can trigger unwanted adverse effects, like insomnia, nausea, and a loss of appetite. Some people can adhd medication help with memory become angry or moody. However the effects typically disappear over time and are able to be controlled by changing the dosage. In some instances, stimulants can cause changes in personality, such as becoming withdrawn, listless or more rigid and obsessive. They may also raise the risk of developing other psychiatric problems, including mania and depression.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. They are often misused by adolescents and adults to achieve performance enhancement, and they can cause addiction if taken in a manner that is not approved. Because of the risks, doctors are very cautious in assessing the need for stimulant medication and to monitor the dosage and side effects carefully.

Non-stimulant medications

There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and which one is best for you depends on your individual requirements. These medications don't affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause negative side effects, but they can take longer to effect and only last for a period of 24 hours. They are mostly effective by increasing the level of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. They also contain antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).

Psychotherapy

Therapy can teach the patient how to deal with their symptoms, and also develop new coping techniques such as managing stress or controlling impulsivity. BetterHelp, an online therapy service connects people with licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health issues. You can be matched with the right therapist in just 48 hours after completing a free online assessment. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can assist people suffering from ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability to concentrate however they don't address the underlying causes. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people methods to manage impulsive behavior and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or through practice with a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques so they can assist their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some cases the combination of medication and talk therapy is the best option.