ADHD and Medication
The medication can help those with ADHD control hyperactivity and hyperactivity and accomplish tasks. They can also decrease anxiety and depression.
Stimulants are the drugs that are most commonly prescribed to children and teens with ADHD. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors monitor children closely to detect signs of addiction.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the medications that doctors prescribe most often for ADHD. They are believed to work by increasing the activity in brain regions that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed medicine for ADHD, is also available in amphetamines as well as a newer medication known as quebrachine (brand names include Quelbree). Doctors may prescribe extended release or long-acting formulations of these medications so that the drugs build slowly in the body and then wear off more slowly. medication for inattentive adhd can minimize negative side effects and decrease the chances of a sudden "reboundeffects as the drug wears down.
Researchers believe that stimulants help people with ADHD by raising levels of a neurotransmitter known as dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is known to enhance concentration and focus, and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs can also boost the activity of neurons that send signals to the nucleus of accumbens, which is involved in motivation, pleasure and reward.
Research suggests that people suffering from ADHD have lower levels of dopamine than normal in the frontal cortex, a region of the brain that is responsible for such "executive" functions like organizing and planning. This can lead to problems with time management, completing tasks and suppressing emotions. Researchers have also discovered that stimulant drugs can improve the function of the frontal cortex of people with ADHD. This is done by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine.
Certain people with ADHD aren't helped by stimulant medication, or do not take them well. This is due to the possibility of addiction and abuse, as well as intolerance to certain side effects, such as jitteriness or insomnia. In these instances, alternative treatments may be suggested, including atypical antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD because they are believed to improve attention in some patients and have an extremely low chance of addiction or misuse.
In some cases, psychoeducation is given to help children, teenagers and adults recognize the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ behavioral therapy to help patients change their habits and behaviors.
There is much debate as to whether ADHD exists and, if so, what its causes are. Some people are pushing for more strict diagnostic criteria and a ban on prescribing stimulants for anyone who doesn't meet them, while others are advocating non-stimulant treatments that can be just as effective and have less side negative effects. There is an increasing movement to encourage more behavior modification. This could be more effective in the long run than prescription medications. This can include a range of psychological strategies, like cognitive behavior therapy and problem-solving training. It could also include parenting skills, which could aid in reducing the impulsiveness and distractions within the home environment. Other forms of behavior modification, like reward-based training and family therapy can also be beneficial.