Treatment For ADHD
The most effective treatments for add are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). The medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate amphetamine and Atomoxetine. They may also be non-stimulants like clonidine or Guanfacine.
Patients with active substance abuse issues should not take stimulant medications. However, those in stable remission may look into them. Combination therapy using antidepressants, especially SSRIs, is a different option.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase norepinephrine and dopamine levels between synapses in the brain. This helps improve concentration and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. The majority of doctors prescribe stimulant medication to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate, (Concerta or Ritalin) or amphetamines. These are both very similar drugs. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the individual's biochemistry and how well they respond to the drug. It could take between five and seven days before the full effects of the medication are apparent. Improvements in concentration, improved memory, better sleep, and less the tendency to be impulsive are all indications that the medicine is working.
Some of the side effects can include a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Certain people with medical conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease, shouldn't take these medications. treatment of add have a high risk for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only paediatricians or psychiatrists, or in some cases general practitioners, may prescribe stimulants. They can be found in the form of tablets or pills or patches that are placed on the skin, or liquids.
Children and adolescents who consume stimulants frequently experience problems with appetite and weight loss. If the dosage is too high, they may also develop the tics. In this instance, the doctor will reduce the dosage to prevent the drug from worsening symptoms.
Stimulant medication is used by about 70% to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. The majority of children and young people experience improvement in their symptoms with treatment. This is particularly relevant for children with teachers, parents or caregivers who report improvements.
The early use of stimulants can reduce the risk of developing substance use disorders in later life. Wilens, Katusic, and colleagues81,82 and Biederman, et al83, found that stimulant therapy reduces the risk of substance use disorders in the adolescent years. However the protective effect diminishes in the early years of adulthood.