ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD focus, manage impulsive behavior and hyperactivity, and finish tasks. They can also reduce anxiety and depression.
The most common medicines prescribed to children and teens with ADHD are stimulants. 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
Stimulants are among the medications that doctors most commonly prescribe for ADHD. They are thought to improve the activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, is also available in amphetamines as well as a newer medication known as quebrachine (brand names Quelbree). These medications are usually prescribed in formulations with a long-acting effect or with extended release, so that they increase in strength slowly and are released gradually. This will help reduce side effects and lower the risk of the sudden "rebound" effect as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe stimulants can help people suffering from ADHD because they boost levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that is found in the brain. over the counter adhd medication helps improve concentration and focus as well as reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. These medications can also increase the activity neurons that send signals into the nucleus Acumbens which is involved with motivation, pleasure, and reward.
Research suggests that those with ADHD have lower than normal dopamine levels in the frontal cortex, a region of the brain responsible for these "executive" functions such as organizing and planning. This can lead to problems with time management, completing tasks and suppressing emotions. Research also suggests that stimulant drugs may help improve frontal cortex function in people with ADHD by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Some people suffering from ADHD are not able to respond to stimulant medications or are not tolerant to them. This is due to the potential for abuse and addiction as well as an intolerance to certain side effects such as insomnia or jitteriness. Other medications, such as atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants, could be prescribed in these instances. These medications are often prescribed for ADHD "off-label" because they are believed to increase attention and are associated with a low chance of addiction or abuse.
Psychoeducation is offered in some cases to help children, teenagers and adults understand their diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ behavioural therapy to help people change their behavior and habits.
There is a lot of debate over whether ADHD exists at all and, if it does, what the causes might be. Some people are pushing for more strict diagnostic criteria and a ban on prescribing stimulants for anyone who doesn't meet them, while others are advocating non-stimulant therapies which are equally efficient and have less adverse effects. There is an increasing movement to encourage more behavior modification. This could be more efficient in the long run than medication. This could include a variety of psychological strategies, like cognitive behavior therapy and problem-solving training. It can also include parenting skills, which can help to reduce anxiety and distraction within the home environment. Other methods of influencing behavior, such as reward based training and counseling for families, can also be helpful.