20 Things You Need To Know About Treatment For ADD

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Treatment For ADHD

Psychosocial therapy is the primary treatment for add. The medications contain stimulants such as methylphenidate amphetamine, and atomoxetine. They can also be nonstimulants, like clonidine and guanfacine.

Stimulant medications are not recommended for patients with active substance abuse issues, however they are an option for those who are in stable recovery. Combination therapy using antidepressants especially SSRIs, is another option.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels between synapses in the brain. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulses. Most doctors prescribe stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines, which are similar medications. The type of medicine prescribed depends on the biochemistry of each person and how they respond to it. It could take anywhere from five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are apparent. The medicine will be effective when you notice improvements in concentration, memory sleep, impulsivity, and sleep.

Some of the adverse effects include decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping, and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. People suffering from medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure should not use them. They are highly prone for abuse and are tightly controlled drugs. Only psychiatrists or pediatricians, or in some cases general practitioners, may prescribe stimulants. They are available in the form of tablets or pills or patches that go on the skin, or liquids.

Children and adolescents who are taking stimulants frequently experience problems with appetite and weight loss. They can also develop tics when the dosage is too high. If this occurs, the doctor might reduce the dosage to prevent the drug from causing worsening of symptoms.

About 70% to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD are treated with stimulant medications. The majority of adolescents and children find that their symptoms improve when treated. This is particularly the case for children with parents, teachers, or caregivers that can report improvements.

Early use of stimulants may reduce the risk of developing addiction disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens colleagues81,82, and www.iampsychiatry.com Biederman and colleagues83 discovered that the use of stimulants reduces the risk of acquiring substance use disorders during adolescence. However, this protective effect fades in the early years of adulthood.