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ADHD Medications and Treatments The primary drugs used to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase neurotransmitters and help control impulses and improve concentration. Adderall and dextroamphetamine are just two examples, as are methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. Ritalin, also known by their brand names. If stimulants do not work or cause too many side adverse effects, doctors might prescribe antidepressants such as Wellbutrin. These drugs target norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Medication Drugs affect brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine that are essential for attention and thinking. The most popular stimulants, a medication for ADHD are effective when taken as directed. Like all medications, stimulants can cause side effects. Doctors and patients work together to find the best dosage or combination of medication to minimize the risk of side effects. Symptoms of ADHD can vary, but they always include inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior. The signs usually start before the age of 12, and last through adolescence and even into adulthood. The symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe and may be different for boys and girls. Boys and children assigned male at birth (AMAB) tend to show more hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, but the same behaviors can occur in girls and women. A health care provider can diagnose ADHD in teens or children by following the guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association for the disorder. They will talk to the parents and children about their symptoms, and will observe them in various settings. A child should exhibit at least six signs in two or more different environments, and these symptoms must hinder the child's development and functioning. The symptoms must have appeared before the child reached 12. The majority of children suffering from ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. Doctors can prescribe methylphenidate, the ingredient in Ritalin or amphetamine-based stimulants, such as Adderall. Doctors may prescribe nonstimulant medicines like bupropion or atomoxetine treat ADHD. These medications don't work as fast as stimulants however they can lessen some of the disorder's nagging adverse effects. ADHD is often associated with other psychiatric disorders such as depression or mood disorders. They are also at higher risk of substance use disorders. These other issues can be treated with behavioral therapy, which teaches children and adults how to better deal with ADHD. Research has demonstrated that treatment with both medication and behavioral therapy can enhance a person's quality of life and reduce symptoms. Some teens and children aren't able to respond well to ADHD medications, so they may require a different drug or a lower dosage. Clinical trials are ongoing to determine the best treatment options for adolescents and adults with ADHD. Behavioral therapy For some, behavior therapy might not require medication. For these people, a change in diet and lifestyle might aid in easing symptoms of ADHD. In addition, they may be able to find ways to improve their organization skills, such as keeping important items in designated areas or using reminders or alarms. They can also use exercises and other activities that require physical movement to channel energy, rather than being impulsive. Behavioral therapy is especially beneficial for children with ADHD. It can help parents learn to be better parents and also assist their child to cope with stress and other problems that may cause problems with attention. Behavioral therapy can help children manage their emotions and develop positive self-esteem, as well as manage their behavior in school. To diagnose ADHD, doctors will discuss the symptoms with the patient and observe their behavior in various situations. They will also examine school records, questionnaires from relatives and teachers, and other information about the person. They will also rule out other illnesses and conditions that have similar symptoms. They will also apply ADHD rating scales and perform a medical exam. The most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD are stimulants designed to boost brain activity in areas that control attention. These include the prefrontal cortex and basal Ganglia. There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat ADHD. They are generally thought to be less effective, however they are safer than stimulants. It can take an extended time to treat ADHD. It is essential that you see your doctor regularly. The symptoms of ADHD can impact school, work, and relationships. If left untreated, it can lead to depression, low self esteem, eating problems, poor diet and alcohol or drug dependence. You should also speak to your doctor if a medicine that was once effective is not producing the same results or causing adverse side effects. It is important to inform your doctor about any other medications you take because some of them may interact with certain ADHD medications. Counseling No matter what medication is used, counseling can help children and adults with ADHD cope with everyday problems that result from their condition. Counselors can assist them in learning how to utilize calendars, date books, and remember appointments. They can also help set realistic goals. Counseling may also suggest strategies for improving relationships and reducing conflicts. Mental health professionals can inform parents about the condition and help them develop new abilities, behaviors, and ways of communicating with their children. Counseling can assist patients in their efforts to organize their lives and enhance the efficiency of their jobs. They can learn how to stay focused on their work by breaking up large projects into smaller pieces that are easier to manage and practice coping strategies to deal with anger, frustration and anxiety. Psychotherapy can help adults gain confidence and manage risky and impulsive behaviors. In addition to counseling Many adults find it beneficial to consider other treatment options. Stimulants can have negative side effects, including insomnia and jitteriness therefore they should only be used as directed. Patients with ADHD should be honest with their healthcare providers and inform them if they are having trouble taking certain medications. Most doctors prescribe the stimulant methylphenidate, also known as MPH, to treat ADHD. This drug increases the levels of neurotransmitters that influence attention and behaviour in the brain. This drug is available in immediate-release and extended-release form. The longer-acting versions build up slowly in the bloodstream, and fade slowly, which reduces the “crash” effect caused when the drug's level drops. Certain non-stimulant drugs, such as the antidepressant atomoxetine and bupropion, also can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. They are slower to work than stimulants and may be a better option for those who cannot use them due to other health issues or severe adverse side effects. Many people with ADHD may also suffer from anxiety or depression. In these situations, doctors may prescribe an antidepressant or an antianxiety medicine, along with the ADHD medication. They will be aware of how the drugs could interfere or conflict with one another, and they will be on the lookout for signs of troubling side effects. Other treatment options There are a variety of medications that may be used to treat ADHD. They all aim to increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that are present in the brain. This increases the ability to focus and listen, and also improves memory. These medications include stimulants as well with nonstimulants. The stimulants are the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD. They work well for a lot of people, however they may cause adverse side negative effects. Some of these side-effects can be severe. Your doctor can help find the right dosage of medication that meets your needs. They can also recommend other treatments that can minimize or eliminate side effects. The two most common stimulants used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. They are sold under a variety of brand names that include Ritalin and Adderall. They are available as short-acting and extended-release formulations. Short-acting medications can last for 3-4 hours, and are usually taken two or three times per day. Extended-release medicines can last for up to 16 hours and are typically taken once daily. Many adults opt to supplement their morning medication with a shorter-acting dose in late afternoon or evening to fill the gap between the two doses as the medication is fading. Stimulants can trigger an upset stomach and can cause changes in blood pressure or heart rate. adhd for adults medication may feel more irritable and anxious than normal. They can cause tics to become more intense or increase the frequency of their appearance. In some children and adolescents they may cause a slight delay in growth, however this is only temporary and doesn't affect the final height. They can also lead to weight gain and increase appetite. They may also cause an increase in blood cholesterol in certain people. Certain antidepressants are also utilized “off-label” for treating ADHD. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is the most commonly used drug. It works by increasing neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. It is particularly beneficial for people who have both ADHD and anxiety or depression. It may also be beneficial if stimulants don't work or if you're unable to take them or are at risk of using them, or if you have an addiction disorder.