Medication For Inattentive ADHD
Adults suffering from ADHD can struggle to function in a normal manner. They may find it difficult to complete their schoolwork or follow the instructions of their employers without getting distracted.
ADHD is treated with medication. The medication works by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals in order to reduce symptoms.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that increase levels of certain brain chemicals which help people to think clearly and pay attention. They are used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, among other conditions. These medicines can cause adverse effects such as headaches, loss of appetite and sleep disturbances. Some children and adults taking stimulants may experience tics, or other problems affecting their hands, voice, or facial.
Doctors should inquire about your child's medical history prior to prescribing stimulants. They should also conduct basic screenings, including physical examination and checking blood pressure. They should also be looking for any history of heart disease, glaucoma, and alcohol or drug abuse. Doctors will usually recommend alternative treatments prior to prescribing medication if your child has any of these problems.
The most commonly prescribed stimulants for ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. These medicines come in different forms, such as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets, or chewable liquids that are released over time. Some people take them once a day, while others use it more often. Doctors can also prescribe atomoxetine (Strattera) or viloxazine (Qelbree), which are similar to methylphenidate but perform differently in the body.
After several weeks, most people who take stimulants to treat ADHD feel better. However, the initial days or weeks of taking a new medicine can cause negative side effects like anxiety and jitters, ringing in the ears, and changes in vision and hearing. These side effects usually disappear as the body adjusts to the medication. If adhd treatment without medication don't disappear the doctor could decide to lower the dosage or switch you to another medication.
The use of medication doesn't always address all ADHD symptoms and some can cause serious negative side effects. The majority of parents who participated in our survey said that medication helped their children the most in academic performance and behavior at school. Researchers have discovered that although ADHD medications can improve GPAs, they don't fully compensate for poor study habits.
Adults can also benefit from medications, but experts suggest behavioral therapy to manage the condition in the long term. Your GP may suggest that you or a child consider other medications, like antidepressants like atomoxetine (Zoloft) or sertraline(Wellbutrin), or antianxiety drugs like bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications can be combined with stimulants or taken on their own to enhance their effectiveness.
Doctors should be able to monitor your child's reaction to the medicine, and talk about the best way to be used. They will usually want to meet with you two weeks after beginning the medication, and another month later. The frequency of your subsequent visits will depend on how well you or your child is managing your symptoms and the success of your medication. Your GP will also take into consideration any other medications that you or your child is taking, as they may cause side effects or interact with ADHD medication. They will also be looking for signs of trouble like weight increase, loss of appetite and low blood pressure.