ADHD and Medication
Medications can help people with ADHD focus, control impulsive behavior and hyperactivity, and complete tasks. They can also reduce anxiety and depression.
The most frequently prescribed medicines to teens and children with ADHD are stimulants. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates like Ritalin and Focalin are among the most commonly prescribed stimulants. There's a possibility of addiction, which is why doctors monitor children closely for signs of problems.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed medication by doctors for ADHD is stimulants. They are believed to work by increasing the activity in the brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is a common medication used to treat ADHD, and doctors may also prescribe amphetamines or a more recent treatment called quebrachine (brand name: Quelbree). These medicines are typically prescribed in long-acting formulations or with extended release so that they increase in strength slowly and are released slowly. This can reduce the chance of adverse the chances of a sudden "rebound” effect as the drug wears down.
Researchers believe that stimulants can aid people with ADHD because they increase levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is found in the brain. Dopamine aids in improving concentration and focus and to reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. Dopamine can also increase the activity of the neurons that send signals to the nucleus of accumbens, which is involved in motivation, pleasure and reward.
Research suggests that those with ADHD have lower than normal dopamine levels in the frontal cortex, an area of the brain that controls such "executive" functions like organizing and planning. This can result in issues with time management and completing tasks, as well having difficulty calming emotions and controlling impulses. treating adhd without medication I Am Psychiatry suggests that stimulant drugs could aid in improving the function of the frontal cortex in those with ADHD by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Some people with ADHD do not respond well to stimulant medications or are not tolerant to these medications. This could be due to the possibility of addiction or abuse, or intolerance of certain side effects like insomnia and jitteriness. Other medications, including antidepressants that are atypical, such as Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants could be prescribed in these situations. These drugs are typically prescribed for ADHD "off-label" because they are believed to enhance attention and have the lowest risk of abuse or addiction.
In certain instances psychoeducation may be offered, which aims to help adolescents, children and adults to understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists can use behavioral therapy to help patients modify their behaviors and habits.
There's a lot of debate about whether ADHD exists and, if so and what its causes are. Some people are pushing for more strict diagnostic criteria and the prohibition of prescribing stimulants to anyone who doesn't meet these criteria, while others are recommending non-stimulant treatments that are just as effective and have fewer side consequences. There is a growing trend to promote more behavior modification, which is more effective than medications in the long run. This can involve a variety of psychological strategies such as cognitive behavior therapy and problem solving training. This can include parenting techniques that reduce distraction and impulsiveness at home. Other methods of behavior modification, like family therapy and reward-based training, can be helpful too.