Treatment For ADHD
Psychosocial therapy is the main treatment for adding. treatment of add in adults include stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine, and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, clonidine, guanfacine and viloxazine.
Stimulant medications are not recommended for patients with active substance abuse issues, however they can be considered in those who are in stable recovery. Combination therapy using antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, is an alternative option.
Stimulants
The effects of stimulants increase the levels dopamine and norepinephrine in brain synapses. This improves focus and reduces impulses and hyperactivity. The majority of doctors prescribe medications from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines, which are similar to each other. The dosage of the medicine is contingent on the biochemistry of each patient and how they react to it. It may take up to seven days for the full effects of a drug to be apparent. The medication will be effective when you notice improvements in your concentration, memory, sleep, and impulsivity.
Some of the side effects include a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Some people with medical conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease shouldn't take these medications. They are highly prone for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only paediatricians or psychiatrists or, in some instances general practitioners, are able to prescribe stimulants. They are available in the form of pills or tablets, a patch that goes on the skin, or liquids.
Children and adolescents who take stimulants are often affected by weight loss and eating disorders. When the dose is too high, they can also develop symptoms of tics. If this occurs, the doctor might reduce the dosage to stop the drug from leading to a worsening of symptoms.
Stimulant medication is used by around 70 to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. A majority of children and young adults notice that their symptoms improve with treatment. This is especially the case for children who have teachers, parents, or carers who can report improvements.
The early use of stimulants may lower the risk of developing addiction disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens colleagues81,82, and Biederman and colleagues83, found that stimulant therapy reduces the risk of acquiring substance use disorders in the adolescent years. However the protective effect diminishes by early adulthood.