ADHD Medicine For Kids
Some children require more than one ADHD medication to achieve the most effective results. Children should take their medication regularly.
Stimulant medicines work to help normal brain chemicals improve concentration and control of impulses. They are available in liquid form, extended-release capsules, or pill form. The doctor will start you with a small dose and monitor your reaction to the medication.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant which helps reduce ADHD symptoms. It 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, meaning that it must be prescribed by a doctor and can only be bought on prescription (it is not available on the street). Methylphenidate is available as tablets or capsules, as an oral solution, or as a transdermal patch. The type of methylphenidate prescribed will be based on the diagnosis of the doctor and other factors.
Methylphenidate can cause some side effects, such as stomachache, headaches dry mouth, a rapid heartbeat, shakiness and nervousness. It can cause facial tics in some people that are abrupt movements of the muscles in the face that can't be controlled. This occurs in less than 1 in 100 people taking methylphenidate. It's important to notify your doctor right away if your child or you begin to experience this type of problem. It can also cause an increase in heartbeat and blood pressure which your doctor will closely watch when you're taking it. Certain people may also experience a skin reaction, like a rash, which is swollen, itchy or blistered. It can affect blood flow to the fingers and feet (Raynaud’s disease). This is a serious problem that requires immediate hospital care.
In general, methylphenidate is able to be considered safe by most people if taken as directed. However, it can cause a dangerous lower blood pressure when the dosage is too high or taken frequently. It can also make you feel dizzy and shaky and it's not recommended to drive or operate machinery when you take it.
Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II drug, which means that it could be misused. It can also cause addiction in certain people. It is not recommended to share your medication. Keep your methylphenidate safe in a cupboard and only take the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphétamines are utilized in the treatment of ADHD in adolescents, children, and adults. They are effective by boosting the levels of certain brain chemicals which improves concentration and helps to control impulsive behaviour. They are also able to treat certain symptoms of Tourette's syndrome.
They are available in tablets that release immediately and extended-release capsules, as being an oral solution. In the UK they are regulated medications (class C) which means you have to be registered by your doctor in order to get them. The majority of people take them once each week, however some people might take them twice.
Atomoxetine differs from other stimulant drugs. It can be prescribed to children and teens older than 5 if methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine aren't available. It works in a different way to other stimulant medicines however, it can be given to children and teenagers over the age of five if it's impossible to use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine or for adults if the condition is identified within this category. It's usually taken as a capsule every day or twice per day.
Many people abuse stimulant drugs. It is essential to keep your child's or teen's medication secure out of the reach of friends and family and family members, and not shared or sold with other people. It is risky to use the medication in the wrong way. For instance, crushing and injecting the medicine. Some street drugs are based on amphetamines' structure such as methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy).
Amphetamines can be addictive and have adverse effects that are difficult to manage particularly for older people. Full Survey may include extreme fatigue and irritation. They could also include cravings and a desire to keep taking the drug, as well as an extreme fatigue. Talk to your doctor in the event that you or your child suffers any of these side-effects.
If you or your children are taking long-acting stimulant drugs, it is crucial to be aware of the fact that blood pressure may drop abruptly when the drug is removed. If this happens, dial triple zero (000) to request an ambulance as soon as you can. This could be extremely dangerous and could result in an attack on the heart, stroke or even death. You can seek support and advice from your physician by discussing with them the effects of stopping the medication or reducing it.
Long-acting stimulants
Many people with ADHD find that stimulants help them stay focused, finish tasks and enhance their relationships. But not everyone responds to this kind of medication. The negative side effects, such as anxiety and heart palpitations, and the negative effects on appetite and sleep are usually unpleasant. These problems can prevent people from taking the medication they need.
There are ways to help ease these adverse effects. Your doctor may reduce the dosage of your medication, or change you to a different medication. Self-help strategies can make a massive difference.
Most people who are taking an ADHD medication need to be monitored by a medical professional. This is due to the fact that it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month for the medication's effects to reach its full effect. Also, it is essential to find the appropriate dosage for your needs. The doctor will inquire about your daily routine and habits and any other health issues you or your child may be suffering from.
Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are a few of the most popular stimulants that have a long-lasting effect. They belong to a class of drugs referred to as methylphenidates and all of them have been in circulation for a long period of time. Some of them are available in chewable tablets or liquid and others can be applied to a skin patch for kids who don't want to swallow pills.
Adderall, Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based ADHD medications are also available. They are more potent and last longer than methylphenidates. They can be taken in different ways, including powder for children who are too young to take pills. Some children prefer taking these pills in combination 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 belong to a category of drugs referred to as selective Norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitors and work by increasing levels of norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They also help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Other medications
If the stimulants aren't working or have undesirable side effects, your doctor may prescribe non-stimulant drugs. These medications can take longer to kick in however they can enhance your ability to focus and control impulses. They also can help reduce depression and anxiety, which may sometimes occur along with ADHD. Doctors may also suggest therapy to teach you skills to manage your symptoms and to improve your behavior. They might suggest you avoid certain drinks, foods or activities that are believed to cause problems for those who suffer from ADHD.
Stimulants alter levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine enhances concentration, whereas dopamine helps to improve it. There are 12 medications that have been approved 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 drug to be approved as a non-stimulant in adults with ADHD. It is a selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor, which means it increases the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. Other drugs in this class include the guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv), and clonidine (Catapres).
Antidepressants are also prescribed by medical professionals to increase the levels of dopamine in the brain. Bupropion is among the most commonly prescribed antidepressant used for adults with ADHD. It is typically prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD when it is associated with depression or substance abuse disorders, including nicotine addiction and cannabis.
Some experts believe there is a connection between mood and ADHD which is why antidepressants may help in treating ADHD symptoms as well as improving your mood. The NHS suggests talking to your GP before taking these drugs.
If your GP determines that medication is the best choice for you, he will prescribe a small amount which will gradually increase over a period of a few weeks. Your GP will monitor you regularly to make sure that the treatment is working and to check for any side effects. They may also refer you to a specialist like a counselor or psychologist, to provide additional assistance.