ADHD Medicine For Kids
Some kids need to take more than one ADHD medicine to get the most effective results. Children should take their medications regularly.
Stimulant drugs help normal brain chemicals improve concentration and control impulses. They are available in form of liquid, pills, or extended-release capsules. The doctor will put you on a low dose and then observe how you react to the medication.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, a stimulant, helps reduce ADHD symptoms. It can be used to treat narcolepsy. It boosts levels of dopamine, which improves mood and concentration. It is a controlled drug, meaning that it must be prescribed by a doctor and can only be bought by prescription (it is not available on the street). Methylphenidate is available as capsules or tablets, either as an oral solution or as a transdermal patch. The kind of methylphenidate prescribed will depend on the diagnosis of the doctor as well as other factors.
Methylphenidate can cause some negative side effects, like stomachache, headache dry mouth, fast heartbeat, shakiness, and nervousness. It may also trigger facial tics in some people who experience rapid movements in the muscles of the face that aren't controlled. This occurs in less than one in 100 people who take methylphenidate. It is crucial to notify your doctor immediately if your child or you are experiencing this issue. It can also cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure that your doctor will closely monitor when you're taking it. Certain people may also experience a skin reaction, like a rash which can be itchy, swollen or blistered. It may also affect the flow of blood to the fingers and feet (Raynaud’s disease). This is extremely serious and requires immediate treatment in hospital.
In general, methylphenidate may be considered safe by a majority of people when taken according to the directions. It can cause a serious blood pressure drop if taken in large quantities or over a long period of time. It can also make you feel dizzy and shaky, so it's not recommended that you operate machinery or drive if you take it.
Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning that it can be used to treat addiction. It is also a habit-forming drug for some people, which is why it is important to be cautious not to share your medication with anyone else. The best way to help stop this from happening is to keep your methylphenidate locked in a cupboard and use only the amount prescribed by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphétamines are commonly used in the treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults. They work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration and help to manage impulsive behavior. They are also able to treat certain symptoms of Tourette's syndrome.
These medicines are available as immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules, and 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 these medications. Most people take them once a week, but some people might take them twice.
Atomoxetine is different from other stimulant medications. It is a prescription drug that can be given to children and teenagers who are over 5 if methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine are not available. It performs differently than other stimulant drugs. It can be prescribed to children and teenagers over 5 years old when methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine are not available or to adults suffering from a diagnosed condition. It's usually taken as a capsule every day or twice daily.
Drugs that stimulate the brain are often abused. It's important to ensure that your child's or teenager's medication safe away from sight and reach of your friends and family members, and not sold or shared with other people. Taking the medication in the wrong way by crushing it, or injecting it, can be extremely dangerous and life-threatening. Certain street drugs are built on amphetamines' structures which include methamphetamine as well as MDMA (ecstasy).
Amphetamines can cause addiction and have side effects that are difficult to deal with particularly in older people. These adverse effects could include extreme exhaustion and anger. They could also include cravings, a desire to continue taking the drug, as well as an extreme fatigue. If you or your child experiences any of these side effects speak to your doctor as soon as you can.
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. Call triple zero (000), an ambulance, as soon as this occurs. This is extremely risky and could result in an attack on the heart, stroke or even death. You can seek support and advice from your doctor by talking to them about the effects of cutting down on the medication or reducing the dosage.
Long-acting stimulants
Many people with ADHD discover that stimulants can aid in staying focused, finish tasks, and improve their relationships. However, not everyone is able to respond to this class of medication. And the side effectssuch as heart palpitations, anxiety and a negative effect on sleep and appetite are often uncomfortable. These issues can stop people from taking the medication they need.
There are ways to reduce these side effects. Your doctor may lower the dosage of your medication or change it to a different one and self-help strategies can help you to make a difference.
Most people who are taking an ADHD medication must be closely monitored by an expert in medical care. It can take up to a month before the medication has its full effect, therefore it's crucial to find the correct dosage. Medical professionals may inquire about your or your child's routine and habits in order to determine what works best for you and will look at any other health issues that could cause problems.
Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are some of the most popular long-acting stimulants. They belong to a class of drugs referred to as methylphenidates and have been in circulation for a long period of time. Some of them are available as chewable tablets and liquids, while others can be put on a skin patch for kids who aren't keen on swallowing pills.
The other type of long-acting ADHD medication is the amphetamine category comprising Adderall and Dexedrine. They have a stronger and longer-lasting effect than the methylphenidates and are available in various ways, including in the form of a powder for younger children who aren't able to take pills. Some children prefer taking these medications mixed with juice or milk.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are psychostimulants with a long-acting effect that aren't found in the amphetamine or methylphenidate groups. They are part of a class of drugs known as selective Norepinephrine Resuptake Inhibitors. adhd medication online work by increasing levels of norepinephrine which is a brain chemical. They can also lessen the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Other medicines
If the stimulants aren't working or cause unpleasant side effects, doctors might prescribe non-stimulant medication. These medications can take longer to kick in however they can enhance your ability to focus and control impulses. They can also reduce anxiety and depression that may be associated with ADHD. Doctors may also suggest therapy to assist you in managing your symptoms and improve your behaviour or suggest to avoid certain foods drinks, foods, or activities that are known to cause issues for people suffering from ADHD.
The effects of stimulants alter the levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine helps you focus and dopamine helps to increase this concentration. 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 was the first medicine approved for adults with ADHD as a nonstimulant. It is an inhibitor selective of norepinephrine production, which means that it boosts the levels of norepinephrine within the brain. Other drugs in this class include the guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv), and clonidine (Catapres).
Antidepressants can also be prescribed by medical professionals to increase dopamine levels in the mind. Bupropion is most commonly prescribed as an antidepressant for treating adult ADHD. It is prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD when it is associated with depression or substance abuse disorders, including cannabis and nicotine addiction.
There are some experts who believe there is a link between mood and ADHD, so antidepressants can help with treating ADHD symptoms and improving your mood. The NHS suggests that you consult your GP prior to taking these medications.
If your GP decides that medication is suitable for you, they'll prescribe a dose, and begin you on small doses which they will gradually increase over the course of a few weeks. Your GP will be monitoring you regularly to make sure that the treatment is effective and to check for any side effects. They may also refer you to a specialist such as counselors or psychologists to provide additional assistance.