ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD focus, control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, and finish tasks. They can also reduce depression and anxiety.
Stimulants are the drugs that are most commonly prescribed to children and teens suffering from ADHD. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors monitor children closely to check for addiction.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by doctors for ADHD is stimulants. They are believed to work by increasing the activity in brain regions that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed drug for ADHD is also available in amphetamines and the newest medication called quebrachine (brand names Quelbree). Doctors may recommend extended release or prolonged-acting formulations of these drugs to ensure that the drugs build slowly in the body and then wear off more gradually. This can reduce the chance of adverse side effects and reduce risk of a sudden “rebound” effect as the drug wears down.
Researchers believe that stimulants help people suffering from ADHD by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter known as dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is known to improve concentration and focus, as well as reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs can also boost the activity of neurons that send signals to the nucleus accumbens, which is involved in motivation and pleasure as well as reward.
Research suggests that people suffering from ADHD have lower than normal dopamine levels in the frontal cortex, a region of the brain responsible for such "executive" functions as planning and organising. This can result in difficulties with time management, performing tasks, and reducing emotions. Research suggests that stimulant drugs could help improve frontal cortex function in people with ADHD by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
how does medication for adhd work suffering from ADHD do not respond well to stimulant medication or aren't tolerant of them. This can be because of the possibility of addiction and abuse as well as an intolerance to certain side effects such as insomnia or jitteriness. Other medications, like antidepressants that are atypical, such as Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants, might be prescribed in these cases. These are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD as they are thought to improve attention in certain patients and have the lowest risk of abuse or addiction.
In some cases psychoeducation can be provided, which aims to help adolescents, children and adults to understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists can employ behavioural therapy to help people change their behavior and habits.
There's plenty of debate over whether ADHD exists and, if so, what its causes are. Some people are pushing for more strict diagnostic criteria and a ban on prescribing stimulants to those who don't meet them, while others are advocating non-stimulant therapies that can be just as effective and have fewer side negative effects. There is a growing movement that encourages more behavior modification. This can be more effective in the long run than medications. how does medication for adhd work can include a range of psychological strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and problem-solving skills training. It could also include parenting skills, which could aid in reducing distraction and impulsiveness within the home environment. Other forms of behavior modification, such as family therapy and training based on rewards can also be beneficial.