Don't Be Enticed By These "Trends" Concerning Treatment For ADD

Treatment For ADHD

Psychosocial therapy is the most common treatment for adding. The medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate amphetamine, and atomoxetine. They also include non-stimulants, such as clonidine and Guanfacine.

The use of stimulants should not be used in patients with active substance abuse issues, however they are a possibility for those who are in stable in remission. Combination treatment with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.

Stimulants

Stimulants boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain's synapses. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe medication from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines, which are very similar medications. The type prescribed will depend on a person's individual biochemistry and how well they react to the medicine. It can take five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. The medication will be effective when you notice improvements in your concentration, memory sleep, and impulsivity.

The medicines in this class may have side effects, including decreased appetite and trouble sleeping, and they can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Some people who have an illness such as high blood pressure or heart disease should not take these medications. They are highly prone for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians, neurologists, and in certain situations, general practitioners may prescribe them. They can be found in the form of pills or tablets or patches that go on the skin, or liquids.

Children and adolescents who take stimulants are often afflicted with appetite issues and weight loss. If the dosage is too high, they can also develop the tics. In this case, the doctor will reduce the dose to prevent the drug from causing more symptoms.

The use of stimulant medications is for around 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. Most children and young people experience improvement in their symptoms through treatment. This is especially the case for children with parents, teachers or other caregivers who have reported improvements.

Early use of stimulants may lower the risk of developing substance use disorders in later life.  IamPsychiatry , Katusic, and colleagues81,82, and Biederman, et al83, found that stimulant therapy reduces the risk of acquiring substance use disorders during adolescence. However this protective effect fades in the early years of adulthood.