Finding the Right Medication For ADHD
Many people who suffer from ADHD find that medication helps them concentrate on their task, pay attention and control their impulses. However, different medications affect people in different ways. It can take a while to determine the correct medication and dosage.
Methylphenidate medications (Ritalin, Adderall, and other brands) increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, and help improve attention. These are the most common ADHD medicines.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of certain brain chemicals known as catecholamines (dopamine and noradrenaline) [3*3*. They also have an impact on mood, energy levels and concentration, making it easier to complete tasks for those who suffer from ADHD. These medications can also enhance the ability of a person to learn and decrease symptoms such as impulsivity or excessive activity. However, because of their potential for abuse, these medicines are controlled tightly. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians or neurologists can prescribe them in Australia (GPs in specific circumstances) and a thorough evaluation must be conducted before they are approved for use.
The most common kind of stimulant used to treat ADHD is the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, and Focalin). It increases activity in the parts of the brain that are involved in attention and behaviour. It is available as tablets with immediate release that are taken between two and three times a day, as well as patches or tablets that have an extended-release (taken each morning in the morning, with the medication gradually released throughout the day). These medications are available in liquid forms such as Ritalin Ready-to-Swallow. This is a great option for children who are unable to swallow pills. There's also a longer-acting version of the medication, Daytrana Patch, which is a skin-sticking product that acts as a band-aid. It can be helpful for kids who forget to take their medication at the end of the daytime.
These medicines aid around 70% to 80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They reduce symptoms like fidgeting, trouble paying attention, and interrupting other people. But they do not solve the problem and the ADHD symptoms will return when the drug wears off. It's important that you follow the exact dosage prescribed and not discontinue taking it or alter the dosage without your doctor's permission.
Most people don't experience any side adverse effects while taking these medications, but they can happen. If they do happen typically, they occur in the first few weeks or days after the introduction of an entirely new medication or increasing the dose. They can disappear on their own, or a doctor might decide to alter the medication or reduce the dosage.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) which regulates stimulant medicines classifies them as Schedule II drugs. This means that they pose a high risk for abuse and dependency. When used as prescribed, these medications can help those with ADHD focus, complete their tasks and improve their social abilities. They can even change the lives of those who don't have ADHD.
It can take some time to determine the most effective medication and dosage for a person, especially when the person has other medical conditions or takes other medications. Discuss with your doctor all the medications you or your child take, including any over-the-counter supplements or caffeinated beverages. non prescription adhd medication uk will enable them to monitor the effectiveness and look out for any dangerous or bothersome side effects. It is essential to inform your doctor about any emotional or behavioural issues you or your child is experiencing. This will allow them to get the best results from the medication.