ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD concentrate, control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, and finish tasks. They can also help reduce anxiety and depression.
Stimulants are the drugs that are most commonly prescribed to children and teens with ADHD. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). There is a chance of addiction, so doctors watch kids closely for problems.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by doctors for ADHD is stimulants. They are believed to be effective by increasing the activity in brain regions that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD, is also available as amphetamines and a newer drug known as quebrachine (brand name: Quelbree). These medications are usually prescribed in long-acting formulations or with extended release, so that they build up slowly and are released more gradually. This may help to minimize adverse effects and decrease the chance of experiencing the sudden "rebound" effect as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe that stimulants can assist people with ADHD due to their ability to increase levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter found in the brain. Dopamine helps to boost concentration and focus as well as reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. These medications can also increase the activity of the neurons that transmit signals into the nucleus Acumbens which is involved with motivation pleasure, reward, and motivation.
Research suggests that those with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine in the frontal cortex, a region of the brain responsible for the "executive" functions like organizing and planning. This can result in issues with time management and working through tasks, as well being a struggle in suppressing emotions and controlling impulses. Research also suggests that stimulant medications could aid in improving the function of the frontal cortex in those with ADHD by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Some people with ADHD do not respond well to stimulant medications or are not tolerant of these medications. This could be due to the possibility of abuse or addiction or intolerance to certain side effects such as insomnia and jitteriness. Other medications, including antidepressants that are atypical, such as Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants, may be prescribed in these situations. These medications are often prescribed for ADHD "off-label", as they are believed to improve attention and have the lowest risk of addiction or abuse.
In some instances psychoeducation may be offered, which aims to help teens, children and adults to understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ the behavioural therapy method to help people modify their behaviors and habits.
There is plenty of debate over whether ADHD exists and, if so and what the causes are. Some people advocate stricter diagnostic criteria, as well as a ban of prescribing stimulants to any person who does not meet the criteria. Others advocate non-stimulant treatment that can be as effective and has less side consequences. There is a growing movement that encourages more behavioral change. content can be more effective in the long run than medications. This could involve a range of psychological strategies, like cognitive behavioral therapy and problem-solving skills training. This can include parenting skills that reduce impulsiveness and distraction at home. Other forms of behavior change that are based on rewards, like reward-based training and counseling for families, can also be beneficial.