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ADHD Medications and Treatments Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs used to treat ADHD. They boost levels of neurotransmitters to improve concentration and control impulses. Adderall and dextroamphetamine are two examples, along with the methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine and Ritalin, also known by their brand names. If stimulants don't work or cause too many side effects, doctors may prescribe antidepressants like Wellbutrin. These drugs target norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Medication The brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine are important for thinking and concentration. Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD and are effective if they are taken as directed. But, as with all medications, stimulants can cause side negative effects. Doctors and patients work together to determine the most effective dose or combination of medication to minimize side effects. Symptoms of ADHD can vary, but they always include inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior. For children, the symptoms typically begin before the age of 12, and they continue throughout adolescence and into adulthood. The symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe and could be different for girls and boys. 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 determine ADHD in teens or children by following the guidelines of the American Psychological Association for the disorder. They will ask the child and parents about their symptoms and observe them in various situations. To be diagnosed with ADHD the child must be able to demonstrate at least six symptoms that manifest in more than one environment and must affect the child's performance and development. The symptoms must have appeared prior to the age of 12. Most kids who have ADHD are prescribed medication to help manage their symptoms. Doctors can prescribe amphetamine-based stimulants such as Adderall or methylphenidate (the drug in Ritalin). Doctors may also prescribe nonstimulant treatments for ADHD, including atomoxetine and bupropion. These medications aren't as fast as stimulants however they can help reduce some of the ADHD's unpleasant side effects. People who suffer from ADHD often have other mental health issues, including depression or another mood problem. They are also at higher risk of developing substance use disorders. These issues can be dealt with through behavioral therapy, which teaches children and adults how to deal with ADHD. Research has shown that treatment with both medication and behavioral therapy can improve a person's quality of life and reduce symptoms. Some teens and kids aren't able to respond to the medications available for ADHD and therefore require an a lower dose or alternative type of medication. Clinical trials are being conducted to determine the best treatment option for adults and teenagers with ADHD. Behavioral therapy Certain people may not require medication to benefit from therapy for behavior. For these individuals, a change in diet and lifestyle could help alleviate symptoms of ADHD. In addition, they may be able to find ways to improve their organizational skills, such as placing important items in designated locations or using reminders and alarms. Exercise and other activities that require physical movement can be utilized to help channel energy instead of acting impulsively. Behavioral therapy is particularly beneficial for children with ADHD. It can help parents learn effective parenting techniques as well as strategies to help their child deal with stress and other problems that can cause attention deficits. Behavioral therapy can help children learn to manage their emotions and develop confidence in themselves and also manage their behavior at 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 as well as questionnaires from relatives and teachers, and other details about the individual. They will also rule out other illnesses and health conditions with similar symptoms. They will also conduct a medical exam and utilize ADHD rating scales. The most common medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants that are designed to increase brain activity in areas that control attention. These include the prefrontal cortex as well as the basal Ganglia. There are several non-stimulant medications that are used to treat ADHD and other disorders. They are generally thought to be less effective, however they are less harmful than stimulants. It can take some time to treat ADHD. It is important to visit your doctor regularly. The symptoms of ADHD can cause problems with relationships, work and school. If left untreated, it can lead to depression, low self-esteem, eating problems, poor diet and alcohol or drug dependence. You should also talk to your doctor if a medicine that was once effective is not producing the same results, or causing side effects. Also, be sure to inform your doctor of any other supplements or medications you're taking, as certain supplements can interact with ADHD medications. Counseling Whether or not medication is used counseling can help adults and children 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 them set realistic goals. Counseling can also provide strategies for improving relationships and decreasing conflicts. Mental health professionals are also able to inform parents about the condition and assist them in developing new skills, attitudes, and methods 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 strategies to remain focused on their work, such as breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, and practice coping with anger, anxiety, and frustration. Psychotherapy can help adults increase their confidence and manage the risky and impulsive behavior. In addition to counseling, many adults find it helpful to explore other treatments. The stimulants can cause side effects such as jitteriness or sleep disturbances. They should only be used according to a prescription. medication for adult adhd IamPsychiatry with ADHD need to be honest with their doctors and let them know they are experiencing difficulties with certain medications. MPH is an stimulant recommended by a majority of doctors to treat ADHD. This drug increases the levels of neurotransmitters which affect attention and behavior in the brain. It is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms. The longer-acting versions build up slowly in the bloodstream, and wear off slowly, which minimizes the “crash” effect that occurs when the dosage decreases. Certain non-stimulant medications such as bupropion or atomoxetine, which is an antidepressant are also beneficial for certain adults suffering from ADHD. They work slower than stimulants, and may be better for those who are not able to take them due to other health issues or severe adverse effects. Many people with ADHD are also afflicted with anxiety or depression. In these situations doctors will often prescribe an antidepressant, or an antianxiety medication along with the ADHD medication. They will be aware of how the medications could interact and they will monitor for any potential side consequences. Other treatment options There are a variety of medications that may be used to treat ADHD. All of them are designed to boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This improves focus and improves their ability to concentrate and remember. These medications include stimulants as well with nonstimulants. The stimulants are the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD. They work well for many people, but they can cause adverse side adverse effects. Some of these side effects can be severe. Your doctor can assist you in determining the right dosage of medication to meet your requirements. They can also recommend other treatments to reduce or avoid side effects. The two most common stimulants used to treat ADHD include methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. They are sold under a variety of brand names, including Ritalin and Adderall. They are available in both extended-release and short-acting formulations. Short-acting drugs can last for 3-4 hours and are generally taken two or three times per day. Extended-release medicines are typically taken once a day and can last up to 16 hours. Many people supplement an extended release morning medication by taking a dose shorter-acting in the late afternoon or evening to bridge the gap between the medication wearing off and the next dose. Stimulants may cause nausea, changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Certain people may feel more irritable and anxious than normal. They can also cause tics to become more intense or increase the frequency of their appearance. In some children and adolescents, they can cause some slight delays in growth, however it is only temporary and doesn't affect the final height. They can also cause weight gain and increase appetite. They may also cause an increase in blood cholesterol in certain people. Certain antidepressants are also utilized “off-label” to treat ADHD. The most popular is bupropion (Wellbutrin), which helps by increasing the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. It is especially beneficial for people with ADHD and anxiety or depression. It can also be useful in the event that stimulants aren't working or if you're unable to take them or are at risk of using them or if you suffer from an addiction to drugs.