Watch Out: How Medication For ADHD Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It

Finding the Right Medication For ADHD Medication helps many people with ADHD focus, pay attention and control their impulses. But medicines affect everyone differently. Finding the right dosage and medication may require some time. Methylphenidate (Ritalin Adderall and other brands) increases the levels of dopamine in the brain and improves attention. These are the most commonly used ADHD medicines. Stimulants Stimulants boost the levels of certain brain chemicals called catecholamines [3*] (dopamine, noradrenaline, and epinephrine). They also have an impact on mood, energy and concentration which makes it easier to complete tasks for those with ADHD. These medications can also enhance a person's ability to learn and reduce symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, because of their potential for abuse, these medicines are tightly controlled. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians or neurologists can prescribe them in Australia (GPs in special circumstances) and a thorough evaluation must be conducted before they are prescribed. Methylphenidate is the most common stimulant used to treat ADHD (Ritalin Concerta and Focalin). It increases activity in areas of the brain that are involved with the control of attention and behaviour. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are taken two to three times a day, as well as patches or tablets that have an extended-release (taken each morning in the morning, with the medication slowly released throughout the day). These drugs are available in liquid forms, such as Ritalin Ready-to-Swallow. types of adhd medication is designed for children who have difficulty swallowing pills. There's also a form that acts long-term of the medication, Daytrana Patch, which sticks on the skin as a band-aid. It can be useful for children who aren't taking their medication later in the daytime. These medicines aid around 70%-80% of adults and children with ADHD. They can ease symptoms such as fidgeting, difficulty paying attention and causing interruptions to others. But they do not treat the condition and a person's ADHD symptoms will recur once the drug is gone. That's why it's important to take the medicine as prescribed and not stop or change the dose without your doctor's approval. Most people don't experience any side reactions when taking these medicines however, they can occur. If they do occur they usually occur within the first few weeks or days after the introduction of the new medication or increasing the dose. They can disappear on their own, or a doctor may decide to alter the medication or reduce the dosage. Stimulant medicines are regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and are classified as Schedule II, meaning they have a high risk of dependence and abuse. If taken as directed the medication can help people with ADHD focus, complete their tasks and improve their social abilities. These medications can make a significant difference in the lives even of people without ADHD. It may take some time to determine the right medication and dosage for a particular person, particularly if that person has other medical issues or is taking other medications. Inform your doctor about the medicines you or your child takes and any supplements available over the counter or caffeinated beverages. This will help them monitor the effectiveness of the medication and monitor for any bothersome or dangerous side effects. It is important to inform your doctor about any emotional or behavioural issues that you or your child may be experiencing. types of adhd medication will allow them to get the most benefit from the medication.