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ADHD Medications and Treatments Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs used to treat ADHD. They boost levels of neurotransmitters that help increase concentration and control impulses. These include amphetamine and dextroamphetamine which are marketed under brands like Adderall and methylphenidate, as well as Lisdexamfetamine, also known as Ritalin and Concerta. If stimulants are not effective or cause too many side effects, doctors may prescribe antidepressants like Wellbutrin. These medications target norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. Medication Medications affect the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine which are vital for concentration and thinking. Stimulants are the most commonly used drugs for ADHD, and they are effective if they are taken in the prescribed manner. Like adhd medications for adults , stimulants can cause side effects. Doctors and patients work together to find the best dosage or combination of medication to minimize the side effects. Symptoms of ADHD can vary, but they always include inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior. For children, the symptoms typically begin before the age of 12 and they continue throughout the adolescent period and into adulthood. The symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe and could be different for girls and boys. Boys and children assigned male at birth (AMAB) tend to show more hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, but the same behaviors can occur in girls and women. A doctor can diagnose ADHD in teens or children by following the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines for the disorder. They will speak to the parents and children about their symptoms, and they will observe them in different environments. A child must exhibit at least six symptoms in two or more settings and the symptoms must hinder the child's development and functioning. The symptoms must have appeared prior to the age of 12. The majority of children suffering from ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. Doctors may prescribe amphetamine-based stimulants like Adderall or the methylphenidate (the drug found in Ritalin). Doctors may also prescribe nonstimulant drugs to treat ADHD such as atomoxetine and bupropion. These drugs don't perform as fast as stimulants however they can lessen some of the disorder's unpleasant side effects. ADHD is often associated with other psychiatric disorders, such as depression or mood disorders. They are also more likely to develop substance abuse disorders. These other issues can be dealt with through behavioral therapy which teaches children as well as adults how to better deal with ADHD. Research shows that the combination of medication and behavioral therapy can improve the quality of life people and help reduce symptoms. Some kids and teenagers aren't able to respond well to ADHD medication, and may require a different drug or a lower dose. Clinical trials are being conducted to find the best treatment option for adolescents and adults with ADHD. Behavioral therapy Some people might not require medication to benefit from therapy for behavior. A modification in lifestyle or diet may help these individuals ease symptoms of ADHD. In addition, they may be able to improve their organizational skills, such as keeping important items in specific locations or using reminders and alarms. Exercise and other activities that require physical movement can be utilized to redirect energy instead of acting in impulsive ways. Behavioral therapy is particularly beneficial for children who suffer from ADHD. It can teach parents effective parenting skills and strategies to help their child deal with stress and other problems that could cause problems with attention. Behavioral therapy helps children learn to manage their emotions and build confidence in themselves and also control their behavior at school. In order to diagnose ADHD doctors will discuss the individual's symptoms with him or her, and observe their behavior in different environments. They also look over school records and questionnaires from relatives and teachers, and other information about the person. They will also rule out other illnesses and health conditions with similar symptoms. They will also conduct a medical examination and use ADHD rating scales. The most common medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants designed to boost brain activity in the areas that regulate attention. These include the prefrontal cortex and the basal ganglia. There are a variety of non-stimulant drugs that are used to treat ADHD, as well. These drugs are regarded as less effective, but are more secure than stimulants. It can take an extended time to treat ADHD. It is essential to visit your doctor regularly. The symptoms of the disorder can affect school, work, or relationships. Untreated, it can cause depression, low self-esteem and eating disorders, as well as a poor nutrition, and alcohol or drug dependence. It's also important to talk with your doctor if you notice that a medication that was once effective no longer has the same effect or results in side negative effects. It is important to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking in case they interact with certain ADHD medications. Counseling Counseling can help children and adults with ADHD deal with the problems they face every day. Counselors can assist them in learning how to utilize calendars, date books, and remember appointments. They can also help them set realistic goals. Counseling can also aid in improving relationships and reduce conflicts. Mental health professionals can also inform parents about the condition and assist them in developing new abilities, attitudes, and methods of interacting with their children. Counseling can help patients of all ages manage their lives and improve the efficiency of their jobs. They can learn strategies to remain focused on their work like breaking large projects down into smaller steps that are more manageable and learn to manage anger, anxiety, and frustration. Psychotherapy can assist adults in gaining confidence and control their impulsive and risk-taking behavior. Many adults find alternative treatment options beneficial in addition to counseling. Stimulants can have negative effects on the body, including jitteriness and sleep disturbances, therefore they should be used only as prescribed. Patients with ADHD should be honest with their doctor and let them know that they are having issues with certain medications. MPH is a stimulant that is recommended by a majority of doctors to treat ADHD. The drug increases levels of neurotransmitters within the brain, which affect the way we think and behave. This drug is available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. The longer-acting ones build up gradually in the bloodstream and wear off slowly, which minimizes a “crash” result that can occur when the drug's level decreases. Certain non-stimulant drugs such as bupropion or atomoxetine, which is an antidepressant can also be beneficial for certain adults suffering from ADHD. They are less effective than stimulants and could be a better choice for those who are unable to take them due to other health issues or serious side effects. Some people suffering from ADHD may also be suffering from depression or anxiety. In these instances, doctors will prescribe an antidepressant or an antianxiety medication along with the ADHD medications. They will be aware of how the medications may interact and they will monitor for any potential side consequences. Other treatment options ADHD can be treated with a range of medications. They are all designed to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in brains. This improves focus and improves their ability to concentrate and remember. These medications include stimulants and nonstimulants. Stimulants, which are the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, are stimulants. They work well for many people, however they may cause side effects. Some of these side effects can be serious. Your doctor can help determine the most effective dosage of medication that will meet your needs. They can also recommend alternative treatments that could lessen or eliminate the side effects. The two most popular types of stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. These drugs are marketed under several brand names such as Ritalin and Adderall. They are available as extended-release and short-acting formulations. Short-acting medications can last for up to 3-4 hrs and are typically taken twice or three times daily. Extended-release medications are typically taken daily and can last up to 16 hours. Many adults supplement an extended release morning medication with a dose that is shorter-acting late in the afternoon or evening, in order to make up the time between the medicine wearing off and the next dose. The stimulants can cause nausea, changes in blood pressure and heart rate. They may also make people feel more stressed and angry than they usually do. They can cause tics to become more severe or increase their frequency. They can also cause a slight slowing of growth in certain teens and children, but it is only temporary and does not affect the final height. They can also increase appetite and weight gain and could cause an increase in blood cholesterol and other heart problems in some people. Certain antidepressants may also be utilized “off-label” to treat ADHD. The most commonly used is bupropion (Wellbutrin) that helps by increasing the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. It is especially useful for people with ADHD and anxiety or depression. It may also be beneficial when stimulants don't work or if you're unable to take them or are at risk of using them, or if you have an addiction disorder.