ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD concentrate, control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, and complete tasks. They can also help reduce anxiety and depression.
The most commonly prescribed medications to teens and children with ADHD are stimulants. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors closely monitor children to detect signs of addiction.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed medication by doctors to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are believed to improve the activity in areas of the brain that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most common medication used to treat ADHD doctors may prescribe amphetamines or a more recent medication known as quebrachine (brand name, Quelbree). Doctors may recommend extended release or prolonged-acting formulations of these drugs so that the drugs build up slowly in the body, and wear off more slowly. This can minimize side effects and reduce chance of a sudden "reboundeffects as the drug wears away.
Researchers believe that stimulants help people with ADHD by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter named dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is known to improve concentration and focus, and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications may also increase the activity of neurons that transmit signals to the nucleus of accumbens, which is involved in motivation and pleasure as well as reward.
According to research, individuals with ADHD may have lower than normal dopamine levels in their frontal cortex. This is the area of the brain that is responsible for "executive functions" such as organizing and planning. This can cause problems with time management and completing tasks, as well as difficulty suppressing emotions and controlling impulses. Researchers have also found that stimulant drugs can enhance the frontal cortex function of people suffering from 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 could be due to the possibility of addiction and abuse as well as an intolerance to certain adverse effects such as jitteriness or insomnia. In inattentive adhd medication , alternative medications may be offered for treatment, like Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD as they are thought to improve the attention span of some patients and carry an extremely low risk of misuse or addiction.
Psychoeducation can be given in some cases to help children, teenagers and adults recognize their diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may also employ behavioral therapy, which is helping people learn to modify their behavior and habits.
There's much debate as to whether ADHD exists and, if so and what the causes are. Some are calling for stricter diagnostic criteria and a ban on prescribing stimulants to those who don't meet these criteria, while others are recommending non-stimulant treatments that can be just as effective and have fewer side effects. There is a growing movement that encourages more behavioral change. This can be more effective in the long run than medications. This could include a variety of psychological strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and problem-solving skills training. It can also include parenting skills, which could help to reduce the impulsiveness and distractions in the home environment. Other forms of behavior change that focus on reward-based training and counseling for families, can also be beneficial.