Treatment For ADHD
Psychosocial therapy is the primary treatment for add. These medications include stimulants like amphetamine and methylphenidate, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine, clonidine, guanfacine and viloxazine.
Stimulant medication should not be used in patients who have active substance abuse issues, however they can be considered in those who are in stable in remission. Combination therapy with antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, is an alternative option.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine between brain synapses. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe medication from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate, (Concerta or Ritalin), or amphetamines. They are both similar medications. The type prescribed will depend on the person's individual biochemistry and how well they react to the medication. It can take five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. Improved concentration, better memory, better sleep, and less the tendency to be impulsive are all indications that the medication is working.
Some of the side effects can include a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Patients with medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, should not use them. They are controlled substances with a potential for misuse. Only paediatricians, psychiatrists or neurologists, and in some situations, general practitioners may prescribe them. They can be found in the form of pills or tablets or patches that go on the skin, or liquids.
Children and adolescents who are dependent on stimulants often suffer from weight loss and eating disorders. When the dose is excessive, they could also develop symptoms of tics. In this case the doctor will decrease the dose to prevent the drug from causing more symptoms.
Stimulant medication is used by about 70% to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms improve when treated. add treatments for adults is especially true for those who have parents, teachers or other caregivers who have reported improvements.
The early use of stimulants may reduce the risk of substance use disorders later in the course of. Wilens, Katusic, and colleagues81,82, and Biederman, et al83 discovered that treatment with stimulants reduces the risk of developing substance addiction disorders during the adolescent period. However this protective effect fades as we enter early adulthood.