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 instructions from their employers without becoming distracted.
Medication is an essential component of treatment for ADHD. The effects of medication are increased levels of certain chemicals in your brain to manage symptoms.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the levels of certain chemicals in your brain, which helps you to think clearly and pay more attention. They are prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, among other conditions. These medicines can also cause side effects like headaches, loss in appetite, or difficulty sleeping. Some children and adults who take stimulants could develop tics or other problems that affect their face, voice, or hands.
Before prescribing stimulants, doctors must inquire about your child's or her medical history. They should also perform a basic screening, which includes a physical exam and checking blood pressure. They should also determine if there is any family history of glaucoma or heart disease. If your child has any of these issues, doctors will usually suggest other treatments prior to considering the use of medication.
Amphetamines are the most commonly prescribed stimulants to treat ADHD. adhd medication for adults come in different forms, including immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two to three times per day) and modified-release tablets or chewable liquids that are released over time. Some people only take them once per day, while others use more frequently. Doctors can prescribe atomoxetine, (Strattera) or viloxazine, (Qelbree) both of which are comparable to the methylphenidate medication, but differ in their effects on the human body.
Most people who take stimulants for ADHD will feel better after several weeks of treatment. However, the initial days or weeks of taking a new medication may cause side effects like anxiety or jitters, ringing of the ears, and changes in vision and hearing. These effects usually go away as the body becomes accustomed to the medicine. If they don't go away, your doctor may decide to reduce the dosage or switch you to another medicine.
Medicines don't always address all ADHD symptoms and some can cause severe side effects. In our survey most parents believed that medication was the most beneficial in improving their child's academic performance and behavior. But researchers have found that, although ADHD medication improves GPAs in a study of high school students, they do not fully make up for the poor study habits of students.
Adults also can benefit from medications, but experts recommend behavioral management to manage the illness over the long run. Your GP may suggest that you or a child take other medicines, such as antidepressants such atomoxetine (Zoloft) or sertraline(Wellbutrin), or antianxiety drugs like bupropion (Wellbutrin). These drugs can be paired with stimulants, or used in isolation to improve their effectiveness.
Doctors should observe the response of your child or yourself to the medication and discuss how it should be used. They will usually want to meet with you two weeks after having started the medication, and then again a month later. The frequency of your subsequent visits will depend on how well you or your child are managing your symptoms and the success of your medication. Your GP will also consider any other medications you or your child is taking, as they may cause side effects or interact with ADHD medication. They will also look for signs of trouble, such as loss of appetite, weight gain, and low blood pressure.