ADHD Medication Side Effects
Your child or you could suffer from side effects if a doctor prescribes ADHD medication. It could take a while to find the right dosage and the right medication for you.
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost brain chemicals, which influence attention and concentration.
Doctors may also prescribe guanfacine, (trade names Tenex and Intuniv), and clonidine (Catapres), to reduce the impulsive and tics of people suffering from ADHD. It can take several weeks to work.
Stimulants
The most frequently used medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels of brain chemicals known as dopamine and norepinephrine, which assist people to focus their minds and pay attention. These medications are also effective in reducing impulsivity, restlessness and aggression. They are strictly controlled, so only trained paediatricians and psychiatrists are able to prescribe them.
adhd sleep medication and methylphenidates are two of the most popular stimulants used to treat ADHD. These drugs have been available for a long time and boost neurotransmitters in a variety of ways. They are available in a variety of forms, including immediate-release and extended-release capsules or tablets. Some are ingested and others are administered via injection. Most people prefer the extended-release versions of these drugs. They last from early morning until late evening and can help to prevent the "crash" that can occur when people stop taking stimulant drugs that short-act.
Nonstimulants
These medicines are not as effective as stimulants but can help people control their behavior and focus better. They are often prescribed by a doctor to adults and teenagers who don't receive enough assistance from stimulants, or to help boost the effects of stimulants in children. Certain of these medications are a type of antidepressant and some are a blood pressure drug. They can take several weeks before they begin working, and don't perform as effectively as stimulants.
Behavioural therapy
Treatment options for people suffering from ADHD often involve a combination of behaviour therapy and medication, such as family-based therapy or individual cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Behavioural therapy is more efficient than medication alone. For instance the family-based therapy program involves parents and teachers teaching them how to promote positive behavior and deter negative behaviour in children with ADHD. Individual CBT can help people with ADHD learn to change their thinking patterns and manage their issues more effectively.
Behavioural therapy is particularly useful for children who are young and have ADHD. This will help them develop the skills to improve their interactions with other children and cope with social difficulties. It can also teach parents how to support their child's behaviour and learning at home and in school.
Lifestyle changes
You can make changes to your diet, such as cutting out foods that are that are high in sugar as well as artificial colours or flavours. There isn't conclusive evidence that suggests diets that are like this improve ADHD symptoms. Before modifying your child's diet, you are important to consult a doctor.
The side effects of medication
Every medicine has some negative side effects, but the majority will disappear once your body adjusts to the medication. Some of the side effects can be serious and you should consult your doctor about them if you are concerned.
Psychoeducation is a program designed to help children, teens and adults learn more about ADHD and how to deal with it. It can also be beneficial for parents and carers who struggle with their own concerns having a child or teen with ADHD.