Watch Out: How Treatment For ADD Is Taking Over And How To Respond

Treatment For ADHD The main treatments for adding are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). The drugs include stimulants like methylphenidate, amphetamine, and atomoxetine. They can also be non-stimulants like clonidine or Guanfacine. Patients with active substance abuse issues shouldn't take stimulant drugs. However, those in stable remission can consider them. Combination therapy with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option. Stimulants The effects of stimulants increase the levels dopamine and norepinephrine that are released between brain synapses. This helps improve concentration and reduces hyperactivity as well as impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They may recommend methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines, which are similar medicines. The type prescribed will depend on the person's biochemistry as well as how well they react to the medication. It could take anywhere from five to seven days before the full effects of the medication become evident. Increased concentration, improved memory, improved sleep, and reduced impulse control are all indications that the medication is working. Some of the side effects include decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Certain people with a medical condition such as high blood pressure or heart disease, should not use them. Stimulants have a high potential for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians or neurologists, and in some situations, general practitioners may prescribe them. They are available in the form or pills, tablets, patches that go on the skin or in liquids. Children and adolescents who take stimulants often experience appetite problems and weight loss. They may also experience tics when the dose is too high. If treatments for adult adhd occurs, the doctor will reduce the dosage to stop the drug from causing worsening of symptoms. Stimulant medicines are used for around 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. The majority of children and adolescents report that their symptoms get better when treated. This is especially true for those with teachers, parents, or carers who can report improvements. The early use of stimulants may reduce the risk of substance use disorders later on in the course of. Wilens Katusic, Wilens, and colleagues81,82 and Biederman, et al83 discovered that the use of stimulants reduces the risk of substance use disorders in the adolescent period. However this protective effect fades as we enter early adulthood.