ADHD Medication Side Effects
If your doctor prescribes ADHD medication for your child or you, you might be afflicted by side effects. It may take some trial and error to find the appropriate medication and dosage for you.
The most common medication used to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase brain chemicals which affect concentration and attention.
Doctors can also prescribe guanfacine, (trade names Tenex and Intuniv), and clonidine, (Catapres) to decrease behavior that is impulsive or tics in people suffering from ADHD. It can take up to several weeks for them to start working.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication doctors employ to treat ADHD. These medications increase brain chemicals known as dopamine and norepinephrine which help people pay attention and focus their thoughts. These medications also work in reducing impulsivity, restlessness and aggression. The use of stimulants is strictly controlled and only certified paediatricians and psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe them.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are among the most commonly used stimulants to treat ADHD. These medications have been in use for a long time and function in different ways to increase neurotransmitters that control mood and motivation as well as thinking abilities. They are available in various forms including immediate release and extended-release tablets or capsules. Some are ingested and others are administered via injection. Most people prefer the extended-release versions of these medications. They are available from the morning until evening and help avoid the "crash", which can occur when people stop taking short-acting stimulant medications.
Non-stimulants
These medications have less effect than stimulants, but can help people focus and manage their behavior. They may be prescribed by a doctor to adults and teenagers who don't receive enough assistance from stimulants, or to increase the effects of stimulants on children. Some of these medicines are antidepressants and some are a type of blood pressure medication. They may take a couple of weeks to start working and don't work as well in isolation as stimulants do.
Behavioural therapy
Treatment options for ADHD patients typically comprise a combination of therapy and medication that includes individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family-based therapy. Behavioural therapy is more efficient than medication alone. https://minecraftcommand.science/profile/drugrhythm68 and teachers can learn how to encourage positive behaviour and discourage negative behaviour among children suffering from ADHD through an approach to treatment that is based on family. Individual CBT assists those with ADHD to learn how to change their thinking patterns, and manage their problems better.
Behavioural Therapy is particularly beneficial for children who are young ADHD children. This can help children build skills to improve relationships with other children and cope with social challenges. It can help parents learn how to help their child's behavior and learning at home and in school.
Lifestyle changes
You can make changes to your diet by abstaining from foods that are that are high in sugar as well as artificial colours or flavors. However, there isn't any convincing evidence that diets that are like this improve ADHD symptoms. It is important to seek advice from a doctor before making any changes to your child's eating habits.
The side effects of medication
All medicines can trigger adverse reactions. However, most of them will vanish once your body has adapted to the medication. Some of the side effects are severe and you should consult your doctor regarding them if concerned.
Psychoeducation is a program that assists adolescents, children and adults to better understand ADHD and how to live with it. It can also be helpful for parents and carers who are struggling to deal with their own concerns having a child or teenager with ADHD.