ADHD and Medication
These medications can help people suffering from ADHD focus, manage hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, and finish tasks. They can also decrease depression and anxiety.
The most frequently prescribed medicines to teens and children with ADHD are stimulants. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). There's a risk of addiction, so doctors watch children for any signs of trouble.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by doctors to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are believed to work by increasing the activity in the brain areas that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, which is the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD, is also available as amphetamines and a newer drug known as quebrachine (brand name: Quelbree). These medications are usually prescribed in long-acting formulations or with extended release to ensure that they accumulate slowly and are released more gradually. This will minimize the risk of the risk of a sudden “reboundeffect" as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe that stimulants can assist those suffering from ADHD because they boost levels of dopamine which is a neurotransmitter that is found in the brain. Dopamine is known to improve concentration and focus, as well as reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness. These drugs can also boost the activity of the neurons that send signals to the nucleus abdomens, which is involved in motivation and pleasure as well as reward.
According to research, people who suffer from ADHD may have lower than normal dopamine levels in their frontal cortex. This is the part of the brain that is responsible for "executive functions" like planning and organization. This can lead to difficulties with managing time and completion of tasks, aswell being a struggle in suppressing emotions and controlling impulses. Research suggests that stimulant medications could aid in improving the function of the frontal cortex in those with ADHD by preventing the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Certain people with ADHD aren't helped by stimulant medication or don't take them well. adhd medication ritalin is due to the potential for abuse and addiction as well as an intolerance to certain side effects such as insomnia or jitteriness. In these instances, alternative treatments may be suggested as well, like Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are usually prescribed for ADHD "off-label" because they are believed to improve attention and have the lowest chance of addiction or abuse.
In some instances psychoeducation can be provided, which aims to help teens, children and adults to understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists can also use behavioral therapy, which is helping people learn to modify their habits and behaviors.
There is a lot of debate about whether ADHD even exists and If it does, what its causes may be. Some people are pushing for more strict diagnostic criteria and the prohibition of prescribing stimulants for anyone who doesn't meet them, while others are advocating non-stimulant treatments that are just as effective and have less side effects. There is a growing trend to promote more behavior modification, which can be more effective than medications in the long term. This could include a variety of psychological strategies, such as cognitive behavior therapy and problem-solving training. It could also include parenting skills that can aid in reducing distraction and impulsiveness in the home environment. Other methods of influencing behavior that focus on reward-based training and family counseling are also beneficial.