ADHD Medicine For Kids
Some children need to take more than one ADHD medication to achieve the most effective results. Children should take their medicine regularly.
Stimulant medications work to aid normal brain chemicals to improve concentration and control of impulses. They are available in liquid form extended-release capsules, pill form. The doctor will begin with a small dose and monitor your reaction to the medication.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant that helps reduce ADHD symptoms and can be used to treat narcolepsy. It does this by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, which improves concentration and improves mood. It is a controlled substance which means that it has to be prescribed by a physician and can only be bought with a prescription (it is not available for purchase on the streets). Methylphenidate can be purchased in tablets, capsules or oral solutions, as well as transdermal patches. The type of methylphenidate prescribed depends on the diagnosis of your doctor and other factors.
Methylphenidate may cause negative side effects, like a headache, stomachache dry mouth, fast heartbeat, shakiness, and nervousness. It can cause facial tics in some people who experience sudden movements in the muscles of the face that can't be controlled. This is a problem that occurs in less than one in 100 people who take methylphenidate. It's important to notify your doctor right away if your child or you start experiencing this issue. It can also cause an increase in heartbeat and blood pressure that your doctor will closely watch when you're taking it. It may also trigger an allergic reaction to the skin in some people, such as an itch that is swollen, raised, itchy, or blistered, and also a alteration in the way blood flows through the fingers and toes (Raynaud's disease). This is a serious problem that requires urgent hospital treatment.
Generally, methylphenidate is considered to be safe for most people if taken according to the directions. It can cause a serious blood pressure drop if taken excessively or frequently. It may also cause people to feel sleepy or dizzy. Therefore, it's not recommended to drive or operate machines when taking it.
Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II drug, which means it has the potential to be abused. It can also become habit-forming for some people, which is why you should be wary to share your medication with anyone else. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep your methylphenidate in a locked cabinet and only take the dosage prescribed by your physician.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are a class of drugs used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents as well as adults. They help by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, improving concentration and helping to manage impulsive behavior. They may also help with some Tourette's symptoms.
They are available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules as well as an oral solution. They are controlled drugs in the UK (class C), meaning that you'll need to be enrolled by a doctor when collecting them. They are usually taken every day but some people will take them twice a day.
Atomoxetine is different from other stimulant medicines. It is a prescription drug that can be given to children and teens over the age of 5 if methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine aren't available. It works in a different manner than other stimulant medications however, it can be given to children and teenagers over the age of 5 if it's not possible to take methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine, or for adults if the condition is recognized in this group. It is typically taken in the form of capsules, either at least once or twice a day.
Stimulant drugs are commonly abused. Make sure your child's or teen's medications out of away from the sight of friends. They should not be shared or sold. It could be risky to take the medication the incorrect method. For example crushing and injecting the medicine. Some street drugs are made up of amphetamines' structure which include methamphetamine as well as MDMA (ecstasy).
Amphetamines can cause addiction and adverse effects that are difficult to cope with, especially in older people. These side effects may include extreme exhaustion and irritation. adult adhd medication can also cause cravings for the drug, a desire to continue taking the drug, and feelings of fatigue. Consult your physician when you or your child suffers any of these side effects.
If you or your child are taking long-acting stimulants it is important to be aware of the risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure when the drug is stopped. If this happens, dial triple zero (000) for an ambulance right away. This can be dangerous and lead to a stroke, heart attack, or even death. You can get support and advice from your doctor by talking to them about the effects of cutting down on the medication or reducing it.
Long-acting stimulants
Many people who suffer from ADHD find that stimulants help them stay focused, finish tasks and enhance their relationships. Some people are not able to use this kind of medication. The side effects- like heart palpitations, anxiety, and a negative effect on appetite and sleep--are often uncomfortable. These issues can stop people from taking the medications they require.
There are methods to reduce the effects of these side effects. Your doctor may lower the dosage of your medication or change it to a different one, and self-help strategies can also help you to make a difference.
Most people who are taking an ADHD medication will need to be closely monitored by a medical professional. It can take up to a month before the medication takes its full effect, therefore it's crucial to find the right dosage. Medical professionals may inquire about your child's or your own routine and habits in order to get a sense of what is effective for you, and will also look into any other health issues that could be causing problems.
Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are among the most well-known stimulants with long-acting properties. All of these are part of a class of drugs called methylphenidates and have been around for a number of years. Some of them are available as chewable tablets or liquid and others can be placed on patches for children who aren't keen on swallowing pills.
Adderall, Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based ADHD medications are also available. These have a more potent and longer-lasting effect than the methylphenidates and are available in various ways, such as a powder for some younger children who aren't able to take pills. Some children prefer to take these medicines mixed with juice or milk.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are long-acting stimulants which are not part of the methylphenidate group or the amphetamine group. They are in a group of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors. They work by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain called norepinephrine. They can also decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms.
Other medicines
Non-stimulant drugs can be prescribed when stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant adverse effects. These medications can take longer to kick in but they can help improve your ability to focus and manage impulses. They can also reduce depression and anxiety that can be a result of ADHD. Doctors may also suggest therapy to aid in managing your symptoms and improve your behaviour or they may recommend that you avoid certain food drinks, food items, or other activities that can cause problems for those with ADHD.
Stimulants alter levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine enhances concentration, whereas dopamine reinforces it. There are 12 approved drugs to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidate hydrochloride, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, amphetamine sulfate, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride/serdexmethylphenidate chloride, mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine (Strattera). Atomoxetine is the first medicine to be approved as a non-stimulant in adults with ADHD. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine production which means it increases the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. Other drugs in this group are guanfacine hydrochloride (Tenex and Intuniv) and the clonidine hydrochloride (Catapres).
Doctors can also prescribe antidepressants, which increase the level of the chemical messenger dopamine in the brain. Bupropion is most commonly prescribed as an antidepressant for treating adult ADHD. It is prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD when it occurs with depression or substance abuse disorders, specifically nicotine addiction and cannabis.
Some experts believe there is a connection between mood and ADHD. Antidepressants can be beneficial in treating ADHD symptoms as well as improving mood. The NHS recommends talking to your GP prior to taking these medications.
If your GP determines that medication is the best option for you, he will prescribe a small dose that he will gradually increase over a time of a few weeks. Your GP will regularly monitor you to make sure that the treatment is working and look for any adverse effects. They may also recommend you to specialists like counsellors or psychologists to provide additional assistance.