Creating an AdHD Medication List
If you have children with ADHD creating an adhd medication check list can aid you and your doctor to keep track of their treatment. It will also allow you to provide more accurate feedback on how well your child's medicine is working.
The medications for ADHD can cause side effects, but they typically go away on their own after some days or weeks of taking them. The most frequent side effects are difficulty sleeping and a loss of appetite.
Stimulants
One of the most common drugs used to treat ADHD is stimulants. They can boost dopamine levels in the brain and also norepinephrine levels. These neurotransmitters are crucial to focus, alertness, and concentration.
There are many different kinds of stimulants used to treat ADHD, and the FDA has approved many of them. These include amphetamines, methylphenidate and others, a common ingredient in Ritalin and Vyvanse.
Amphetamines and Methylphenidate are both the drugs that are known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They are prescribed to increase concentration and reduce fatigue. They can be consumed in tablets, snorted, or injections. They can also be purchased over-the counter.
Stimulants work quickly so you may feel an immediate boost. This can be a problem. People may develop a tolerance to stimulants and may need to take more to achieve the same effect.
They can raise blood pressure and accelerate the heart rate. These adverse effects must be closely monitored and not neglected.
Other possible side effects could include anxiety, agitation and mood swings. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms consider reducing the dosage or switching to an extended-release version of your medication.
Another thing to look out for is the rebound effect, when symptoms worsen as you get used to the medication. This is especially true for long-acting stimulants and extended-release versions.
These side effects tend to fade with time but they can be difficult to manage without assistance from an expert medical professional. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects with your doctor to determine the most effective solution for you and your child.
Some medications work by blocking the reuptake of dopamine as well as norepinephrine from the brain. This improves concentration and focus, but it doesn't cure ADHD. These medications, atomoxetine or Clonidine, are often used in conjunction with other ADHD medication.
Antidepressants, that affect serotonin levels in the brain, aren't commonly used in conjunction with ADHD but they can be helpful in certain circumstances. They can also be beneficial for adults suffering from anxiety or depression.
Tricyclic antidepressants (SSRIs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly used antidepressants which can be combined with stimulants. Both medications are able to relieve some of the symptoms of ADHD, but they do not treat all of them.
Side effects can include drowsiness or high blood pressure. These side effects can be dangerous and uncomfortable, so make sure to consult your physician if you suffer from any of these adverse effects.
Finally, stimulants can be addictive. If you stop abruptly or develop an addiction to them withdrawal symptoms may develop. You or someone you know may be suffering from an addiction to these drugs.
Despite the risks of these drugs they are effective in treating ADHD and can be safely employed under the supervision of a physician. They can also be addictive and abused if used for reasons other than medical.