ADHD And Medication's History History Of ADHD And Medication
ADHD and Medication
Medications can help people with ADHD focus, control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior and complete tasks. They can also help reduce depression and anxiety.
Stimulants are among the medications most often prescribed for kids and teens suffering from ADHD. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors monitor children closely to check for addiction.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by doctors for ADHD is stimulants. They are believed to work by increasing the activity in the brain areas that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, is also available in amphetamines as well as a newer drug known as quebrachine (brand names include Quelbree). Doctors may suggest long-acting or extended release formulations of these drugs so that the drugs build up slowly in the body and wear off more gradually. This may help to minimize side effects and lower the chance of experiencing the sudden "rebound" effect as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe stimulants can help people suffering from ADHD due to their ability to increase levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that is found in the brain. Dopamine is known to enhance concentration and focus, and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs can also boost 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 levels of dopamine in the frontal cortex, which is an area of the brain that controls such "executive" functions as organizing and planning. This can result in difficulties with time management, performing tasks and suppressing emotions. Research suggests that stimulant drugs may aid in improving the function of the frontal cortex in people with ADHD by preventing the reuptake process of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Some people suffering from ADHD do not benefit from stimulant medication or don't take them well. This could be due to the risk of addiction or abuse or inability to tolerate certain side effects, such as insomnia and jitteriness. Other medications, including atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants, might be prescribed in these situations. These drugs are typically prescribed for ADHD "off-label" because they are believed to improve attention and have the lowest chance of addiction or abuse.
In certain instances psychoeducation can be provided that aims to assist adolescents, children and adults to understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists can also use behavioral therapy, which is helping people learn to change their behavior and habits.
There's a lot of debate about whether ADHD exists, and if so and what the causes are. Some people advocate stricter diagnostic criteria and an end to prescribing stimulants to any person who does not meet them. Others advocate non-stimulant treatments that can be as effective and has fewer adverse effects. There is also just click the up coming website growing movement to encourage more behavioral modification, which could be more effective than medication in the long term. This could include a range of psychological strategies, including cognitive behavior therapy and problem solving training. It can also include parenting skills, which can help reduce the impulsiveness and distractions within the home environment. Other forms of behavior modification, like reward-based training and family therapy can also be beneficial.
