Treatment For ADD Isn't As Tough As You Think

Treatment For ADHD The main treatments for add are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). Medications can include stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine, and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, viloxazine, guanfacine, clonidine and gu. Patients with active issues with addiction shouldn't take stimulant drugs. However, those in stable remission may consider them. Combination therapy with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option. Stimulants Stimulants boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that are released between brain synapses. medication for adhd and odd improves focus and reduces hyperactivity and impulses. Most doctors prescribe medications from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They can prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta or Ritalin) or amphetamines. These are both very similar medications. The type of medicine prescribed will depend on the person's individual biochemistry and how well they react to the drug. It could take anywhere from five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. The medicine will be effective when you notice improvements in your concentration, memory sleep, impulsivity, and sleep. Some of the side effects include a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Some people who have an illness like high blood pressure or heart disease should not use them. The stimulants have a high risk for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only paediatricians or psychiatrists or in certain cases general practitioners, may prescribe stimulants. They are available in the form of pills or tablets, a patch that goes on the skin, or in liquids. Children and adolescents who use stimulants are often affected by weight loss and a lack of appetite. They can also develop tics when the dosage is too high. If this occurs, the doctor will reduce the dosage to avoid the drug from leading to a worsening of symptoms. Around 70 to 80% children and adults with ADHD are treated with stimulant drugs. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms improve after being treated. This is particularly true for those with parents, teachers, or carers who can report improvements. The early use of stimulants can lower the risk of developing substance use disorders in later life. Wilens and colleagues79,80, Katusic and colleagues81,82 and Biederman et al83 found that treatment with stimulants reduces the risk of developing substance use disorders in adolescence, but the protective effect diminishes by early adulthood.