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If your doctor prescribes ADHD medicine for your child or you, you might experience side effects. It could take a while to find the right dose and medication for you.
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase brain chemicals that affect concentration and attention.
Doctors can also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) and clonidine (Catapres) to reduce anxiety and impulsive behavior among people with ADHD. It can take up to several weeks before they begin working.
Stimulants
The most common medication used by healthcare providers to treat ADHD is stimulants. These drugs increase the levels of brain chemicals known as dopamine and norepinephrine which assist people to pay attention and concentrate their thoughts. They also help in decreasing feelings of restlessness or impulsivity as well as aggression. Stimulants are highly regulated and only paediatricians who are trained and psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe them.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are two the most commonly used stimulants to treat ADHD. These medications have been in use for decades and increase neurotransmitters in different ways. They are available in various forms that include immediate release and extended-release tablets or capsules. Some are taken orally while others are administered by injection. Most people take the extended-release versions of these drugs which last from the morning until evening and can help people avoid the "crash" that often happens when they come off an inactive stimulant medication that is short-acting.
Nonstimulants
These medications are less effective than stimulants, but they can assist people manage their behavior and focus better. They may be prescribed by a doctor to teenagers and adults who do not receive enough assistance from stimulants, or to boost the effects of stimulants in children. Some of these medications are antidepressants, whereas others are blood pressure pills. They can take several weeks before they begin working, and don't perform as effectively as stimulants.
Behavioural therapy
Treatment options for ADHD patients often include a combination therapy and medication like individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family-based therapy. Behaviour therapy is generally more effective than medications alone. For example the family-based therapy program includes teachers and parents teaching them how to encourage positive behaviour and dissuade negative behaviour among children suffering from ADHD. Individual CBT can help people with ADHD to learn to alter their thinking patterns, and manage their problems better.
Behavioural Therapy is particularly beneficial for infants and ADHD children. It helps them to develop the skills to improve their interactions with other children and deal with social challenges. It can teach parents how to support their child's behavior and learning at home and at school.
Lifestyle changes
These can include dietary modifications like cutting out items that are high in sugar or contain artificial colours and flavors. There isn't convincing evidence that eating a diet like this will help improve ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your child's eating habits.
Drugs and side effects
Every medicine has some adverse effects, but they tend to will disappear when your body is accustomed to the medicine. Some of the side effects are serious and you should speak to your doctor regarding them if concerned.
Psychoeducation is an educational program that can help children, teenagers and adults understand their ADHD and how they can most effectively live with it. It can be useful for parents and carers who are struggling with their own issues when dealing with children with ADHD.