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ADHD and Medication
These medications can help people suffering from ADHD concentrate, control impulsive behavior and hyperactivity, and complete tasks. They can also reduce anxiety and depression.
Stimulants are the drugs most often prescribed for children and teens suffering from ADHD. most effective adhd medication for adults include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). There's a possibility of addiction, which is why doctors monitor children closely for signs of problems.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs doctors typically prescribe for ADHD. They are believed to increase activity in the parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medicine used to treat ADHD and doctors may prescribe amphetamines or a newer medication known as quebrachine (brand name, Quelbree). Doctors may suggest extended release or long-acting formulations of these medicines so that the drugs build slowly within the body, and wear off more slowly. This can help minimize side effects and reduce the chance of experiencing a sudden "rebound" effect as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe that stimulants can aid people suffering from ADHD because they boost levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter in the brain. Dopamine helps improve concentration and focus and to reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. These medications may also increase the activity of the neurons that send signals to the nucleus abdomens which is involved in motivation, pleasure and reward.
Research suggests that those with ADHD have lower than normal dopamine levels in the frontal cortex, a region of the brain that is responsible for such "executive" functions like planning and organising. This can result in problems in managing time, completing tasks and suppressing emotions. Researchers have also discovered that stimulant drugs can enhance the function of the frontal cortex of people with ADHD. This is done by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Certain people suffering from ADHD do not respond well to stimulant medication or are not tolerant to these medications. This can be because of the potential for abuse and addiction and intolerance to certain side effects such as insomnia or jitteriness. Other medications, such as antidepressants with atypical properties, such as Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants, might be prescribed in these situations. These are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD as they are believed to improve attention in certain patients and carry a low risk of abuse or addiction.
In some instances, psychoeducation is given, which aims to help teens, children and adults recognize the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists can also use behavioural therapy, which involves helping people learn to change their behaviors and habits.
There is a lot debate over whether ADHD exists at all and in the event that it does exist, what the causes might be. Some people are pushing for more strict diagnostic criteria and an end to the use of stimulants to anyone who doesn't meet them, while others are advocating non-stimulant treatments that are just as efficient and have less adverse negative effects. There is a growing movement that encourages more behavioral change. This is more effective over the long term than medications. This could involve a range of psychological strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and problem-solving skills training. It could also include parenting skills, which could help to reduce the impulsiveness and distractions in the home environment. Other methods of behavior modification, like reward-based training and family therapy can also be beneficial.