From All Over The Web Twenty Amazing Infographics About ADHD Medication Ritalin
ADHD Medication – How Ritalin Helps Kids Manage ADHD ADHD medications can help children manage their symptoms. Doctors prescribe stimulants and nonstimulants for treating ADHD. Stimulants increase the amounts of two brain chemicals—norepinephrine and dopamine—that help kids focus. These medications are first-choice for teenagers and children with ADHD. Long-acting stimulant formulations Many people with ADHD start treatment by taking stimulant medications. They are extremely effective in improving concentration and attention for 70-80% of people with ADHD. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests starting with a FDA-approved medication. Medications are only available by prescription and should be taken only as directed. Supplements or vitamins that are sold over-the-counter to treat ADHD are not supported by scientific research and may cause harmful side effects if used in conjunction with prescription medications. There are a variety of long-acting stimulant formulas each with a specific delivery system and a different time-action profiles. These medications provide clinicians with the ability to determine the certain times of the day when a patient is most impaired. For instance, patients who have trouble completing morning tasks can benefit from long-acting stimulants such as Dexedrine Spansules, Dextroamphetamine/AMPH patch (Xelstrym), or the newer extended-release oral medication Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine). Long-acting ADHD medications enter the bloodstream slower and are less likely to cause adverse effects than short-acting ADHD medications. They typically last for 8 to 16 hours, depending on the medication. The longer duration allows the medication to provide a more consistent effect throughout the day which makes them a great option for adults. Long-acting ADHD medication can trigger side effects such as changes in appetite, an upset stomach, or a rise in heartbeat. Other possible side effects include tics as well as minor slowing of growth. These are only temporary and generally disappear as the body adjusts. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used long-acting ADHD medication. It is the active ingredient in Ritalin as well as other similar medications. It is a stimulant that increases levels of dopamine within the brain. These neurotransmitters are essential chemical messengers that play an important role in motivation, action and cognition. The most popular stimulant drugs for ADHD include methylphenidates, amphetamines, and Atomoxetine. All of these drugs fall under the umbrella of “methylphenidates,” but some are designed differently than others. Certain medications are absorbed through the skin, while others are taken in the form of an oral or intravenously. Short-acting stimulant formulations There are a myriad of stimulant medications available to treat ADHD. This includes all forms of methylphenidate including Ritalin Focalin Metadate and Metadate as well as amphetamines such as Adderall, Dexedrine, and Vyvanse. A doctor can prescribe atomoxetine, which is an stimulant that functions differently and lasts longer. There are also atypical antidepressants which work well for ADHD symptoms. These include Wellbutrin (bupropion) as well as the two antihypertensives Catapres and Tenex. Stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. This can help improve concentration and reduce restlessness for adults and children with ADHD. The medications also reduce the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, stimulants can lead to negative side effects, such as dry mouth and blurry vision. They can also cause increased irritability, anxiety and appetite in some people. Some people have trouble sleeping when they take them. One of the biggest concerns with these drugs is that they can cause an “rebound effect” when the effects fade. Certain people may also experience an increase in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medications. They are safe and effective for adults if taken as prescribed by their physician. The best type of stimulant medication for people who suffers from ADHD is one that is taken in the morning before school or work. These are called long-acting stimulants. This form of the medication can ease symptoms and prevent the possibility of a rebound. Other forms of the medication can be taken during the day when required. Short-acting medications peak and decrease within the body in a short time, so anyone who has to take them regularly will have to take more than one pill every day. This can be inconvenient for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants are the most well-known and widely-used treatment for ADHD in adolescents, children and adults. They are the most effective medications to reduce ADHD symptoms. adhd otc medication could cause serious and life-threatening effects if used in a way that is not properly or in large quantities. They can also increase the risk of depression and other mental health issues. Nonstimulant medications Nonstimulant medicines are an alternative to stimulant drugs like Ritalin in the event that they don't work or have side effects that are too severe. They are less addictive and more resistant to abuse than stimulants. They boost the brain chemical norepinephrine. These medicines are typically prescribed by doctors who specialize in mental health conditions, or psychiatrists. They are often utilized in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychosocial therapy and lifestyle changes. Nonstimulant drugs might take longer to get results than stimulants. They may also require a higher dosage to achieve the same level of efficacy. They are typically prescribed in tablet or capsule form and are taken with or without food. They are more likely to cause stomach upset or change blood pressure and heart rate. They also have a higher risk of developing interactions with other drugs. Certain ADHD medications are available as patches that can be put on the skin. These patches are perfect for people who forget or have difficulty swallowing tablets. They are also useful for children who are sensitive and don't like taking their medicine via mouth. The patch is only useful for children who are able to apply it continuously. It may take some time to determine the ideal combination of medication, dosage, and schedule. It is essential to be open and honest with your physician about how your child or you reacts to the medication. Keep a log of your symptoms or the symptoms of your child, as well as any changes in medication. There are always adverse effects when taking any medication. Some sufferers experience stomach upset or sleep disturbances, as well as an increased heart rate and weight loss. Children and adolescents who take stimulant medications may experience a reduction in their growth rate, but this is not usually significant. Some people might experience tics or anxiety. A small percentage of people have a severe response to the medication. Consult a doctor as quickly when you or your child experience serious symptoms. Take only the medications prescribed by your doctor. If you have any leftover medication, talk to your pharmacist about the possibility of a prescription drug take-back program or mix it in with cat litter or coffee grounds and take it away. Antidepressants Many people who are prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD also take nonstimulant antidepressant medicines. These medicines can help in calming the mind and manage certain stimulant-related side effects, such as decreased appetite or difficulty sleeping. In general, medications that are not stimulant are less likely to cause depression than stimulants. They also can help treat bipolar and anxiety disorders that are sometimes connected to ADHD. Stimulants that are used to treat ADHD are prone for abuse and misuse. Teens and children who don't have ADHD might take these to boost their alertness or to reduce their appetite to lose weight. Others might take them to feel “high.” Stimulants fall under Schedule I drugs, which have a high risk of addiction. When they are prescribed properly and taken by adults they don't increase the risk of addiction. Methylphenidate, the most common medication used for ADHD, is a type of stimulant. It boosts brain activity areas that control behavior and attention. It is available in tablets that release immediately (small doses that are taken 2 to 3 times per day), and modified-release tablets that release the drug throughout the day. It's also available as a chewable and liquid medicine. Some people who are taking stimulant medications for ADHD experience a short period of fatigue, a bad mood, and increased activity when the medication has worn off. This is known as the rebound effect. These symptoms can be cured by altering the time at which you take your medication or adjusting your dosage. Intuniv, a long-acting medication that contains guanfacine for people suffering from ADHD is another alternative. This blood pressure medication is a kind of alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and has been proven to be extremely effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors in adults. It is not believed to be as effective in reducing signs of inattention. It can take time to determine the best ADHD dosage and medication for you or your child. Your doctor is likely to start with low doses, and then increase them gradually until you find the combination that controls your symptoms while causing the most minimal negative side effects. You'll have to visit your GP regularly for checks and to determine whether the dosage has to be adjusted.