ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD focus, manage hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, and complete tasks. They can also reduce anxiety and depression.
The most frequently prescribed medicines to teens and children with ADHD are stimulants. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors closely monitor children to detect signs of addiction.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs doctors most commonly prescribe for ADHD. They are believed to be effective by increasing the activity in brain areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, which is the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is also available in amphetamines as well as a newer drug known as quebrachine (brand name: Quelbree). Doctors may prescribe long-acting or extended release formulations of these drugs to ensure that the drugs build slowly within the body and then wear off more slowly. This can reduce the chance of adverse side effects and reduce risk of a sudden “reboundeffect" as the drug wears away.
Researchers believe that stimulants aid people with ADHD by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter called dopamine in the brain. Read Home Page is believed to improve concentration and focus, as well as reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications may also increase the activity of neurons that send signals to the nucleus abdomens which is involved in motivation, pleasure and reward.
Research suggests that those with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine than normal in the frontal cortex, an area of the brain that controls these "executive" functions as planning and organising. This can result in difficulties in managing time, completing tasks, and reducing emotions. Researchers have also found that stimulant drugs can enhance the functioning of the frontal cortex in those with ADHD. This is done by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine.
Some people with ADHD aren't helped by stimulant medications or are unable to tolerate them well. This could be due to the potential for abuse or addiction or intolerance to certain side effects such as insomnia and jitteriness. Other medications, including antidepressants with atypical properties, such as Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants might be prescribed in these situations. These are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD, as they are thought to improve attention in some patients and carry the lowest risk of misuse or addiction.
In some cases psychoeducation can be provided that aims to assist children, teenagers and adults to understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ the behavioural therapy method to help people modify their behaviors and habits.
There's a lot of debate about whether ADHD even exists and in the event that it does, what the causes could be. Some people are urging stricter diagnostic criteria and the prohibition of prescribing stimulants to those who don't meet them, while others are recommending non-stimulant treatments which are equally efficient and have less adverse effects. There is an increasing movement to encourage more behavioral change. This can be more efficient in the long run than prescription medications. This could involve a range of psychological strategies, like cognitive behavior therapy and problem-solving training. This could include parenting skills that can reduce distraction and impulsiveness at home. Other forms of behavior modification, like reward-based training and family therapy can also be beneficial.