ADHD Medicine For Kids
Some children need to take multiple ADHD medications to get the best results. Children should be taking their medications on a regular schedule.
Stimulant medicines work to help normal brain chemicals improve concentration and control of impulses. They are available in liquid extended-release capsules or pills. The doctor will start you with a small dose and then monitor your reaction to the medication.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant that helps reduce ADHD symptoms. It can be used to treat the condition of narcolepsy. It works by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, which improves concentration and improves mood. It is a controlled drug which means it can only be purchased on prescription and must be prescribed by a doctor. Methylphenidate can be purchased in tablets, capsules or oral solutions, as well as transdermal patches. The kind of methylphenidate prescribed depends on the diagnosis of the doctor and other factors.
Methylphenidate could cause adverse reactions such as stomachache or headache, a dry mouth, a fast heartbeat, shakiness or nervousness. Some sufferers might experience facial tics, which are uncontrollable movements of muscles of the face. This occurs in less than one in 100 people taking methylphenidate, but it's important to tell your doctor right away when you or your child starts experiencing this problem. It also increases the heart rate and blood pressure which your doctor will monitor carefully while you take it. It may also trigger a skin reaction in some people, such as swelling, raised, itchy, or blistered, as well as a change in the way blood flows to the toes and fingers (Raynaud's disease). This is a serious condition that requires immediate hospital care.
In general, methylphenidate may be considered safe by most people if taken as directed. However, it can cause a dangerous reduction in blood pressure if the dose is too high or it's taken frequently. It can also make you feel dizzy and sleepy, so it's not recommended to drive or operate machinery if you take it.
Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II drug, which means that it could be abused. It can also cause dependence in some people. You should not give your medication away. The best way to avoid this is to keep your methylphenidate in a locked cabinet and only take the amount recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Medications known as amphetamines are used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents as well as adults. They work by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals, increasing concentration and helping manage impulsive behavior. They also aid in the treatment of certain symptoms of Tourette's.
The medicines are available in tablets that release immediately and extended-release capsules, as in an oral solution. They are controlled drugs in the UK (class C), meaning that you will need to be enrolled by a doctor when collecting the pills. The majority of people take them once every week, however certain people may take them twice.
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It functions differently than other stimulant medications, but may be offered to children and teens over the age of 5 if it's not possible to take methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine or for adults when the condition is diagnosed within this category. It is typically taken in the form of capsules, taken at least once or twice a day.
Stimulant drugs are commonly abused. Make sure your child's or teen's medication out of reach and away from the sight of friends. They should not be sold or shared. It can be dangerous to take the medication the incorrect way. For instance crushing the medication and injecting it. Certain street drugs, like MDMA (ecstasy) and methamphetamine, are made from amphetamines.
Amphetamines are highly addictive and have side effects that are difficult to deal with particularly for older people. They can include extreme exhaustion, irritability, cravings and a desire to take more. If you or your child suffers any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
If you or your child is taking long-acting stimulants, you need to be aware of the risk of a sudden decrease in blood pressure after the drug is stopped. If this occurs, call triple zero (000) to request an ambulance as soon as you can. This could be dangerous and could result in a heart attack, stroke or death. You can get support and advice from your doctor by talking to them about the effects of stopping the medication or reducing the dosage.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulants can help people with ADHD stay focused, complete tasks and improve their relationships. But not everyone responds to this kind of medication. The adverse effects, like anxiety and heart palpitations and the negative impact on sleep and appetite are often uncomfortable. These issues can stop people from taking the medication they need.
There are methods to lessen these side effects. Your doctor can decrease the dose of your medication or switch you to a different medication. Self-help strategies can make a huge difference.
The majority of people who take an ADHD medication need to be monitored by a medical professional. It can take up to one month before the medication can take its full effect, so it's essential to find the appropriate dosage. The doctor will inquire about your daily routine and habits and also any other health concerns you or your child could be suffering from.
Some of the most common types of long-acting stimulants are Concerta, Focalin and Ritalin SR, and Vyvanse. These drugs are part of a group of drugs referred to as methylphenidates. They have been around for many years. Some are available as liquids and chewable tablets, whereas others are available as skin patches for kids who don't want take pills.
Another type of long-acting ADHD medication is the amphetamine class comprising Adderall and Dexedrine. They are more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates. They can be used in various ways, including powder, for younger children who cannot take pills. These medicines can be mixed with juice or milk to help them taste better for some kids.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are long-acting stimulants which are not part of the methylphenidate group or the amphetamine group. They belong to a category of drugs called selective Norepinephrine Resuptake Inhibitors. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine which is a brain chemical. They can also decrease the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Other medicines
If the stimulants aren't working or have unpleasant adverse effects, doctors may prescribe non-stimulant drugs. These medications take longer to start working but they can increase your ability to concentrate and control your impulses. They can also help to reduce depression and anxiety which may sometimes occur along with ADHD. Doctors may also recommend therapy to teach you skills to manage your symptoms and improve your behavior. They may suggest that you stay away from certain beverages, foods or activities known to cause problems for those who suffer from ADHD.
Stimulants adjust the levels of two chemical brain-based messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine. Norepinephrine helps you concentrate and dopamine enhances your concentration. There are 12 drugs that have been approved to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidate hydrochloride, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, amphetamine sulfate, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride/serdexmethylphenidate chloride, mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine (Strattera). Atomoxetine is the first medication to be approved as a nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. It is an inhibitor selective of norepinephrine production which means it increases the level of norepinephrine inside the brain. Other drugs that belong to this group include guanfacine hydrochloride (Tenex and Intuniv) and the clonidine hydrochloride (Catapres).
Antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to increase dopamine levels in the brain. Bupropion is usually prescribed as an antidepressant treatment for adult ADHD. It is prescribed "off-label", to treat ADHD when it occurs with depression or other substance abuse disorders, specifically nicotine addiction and cannabis.
There are some experts who believe there is a link between mood and ADHD. Antidepressants may be useful in treating ADHD symptoms, as well as improving mood. The NHS recommends talking to your GP prior to taking these medications.
If your GP determines that medication is the best choice for you, he'll prescribe a small amount which he will gradually increase over a period of a few weeks. adhd in adults medication to ensure that the treatment is working and look for any adverse effects. They might also recommend you to a specialist like a psychologist or a counsellor, for additional support.