Treatment For ADHD

Psychosocial therapy is the main treatment for adding. Medications can include stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine, and nonstimulants like atomoxetine, clonidine, guanfacine and viloxazine.

Stimulant medication should not be used by patients who have active substance abuse issues, however they are a possibility for those who are in stable remission. Combination treatment with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase norepinephrine and dopamine levels between the brain's synapses. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. The majority of doctors prescribe medications from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They may recommend methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines which are similar medications. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the person's biochemistry as well as how well they respond to the medication. It can take five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. Increased concentration, improved memory, improved sleep, and a decrease in the tendency to be impulsive are all indications that the medication is working.

Some of the side effects can include a decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. People suffering from medical conditions, like heart disease or high blood pressure should not use these medications. treating add in adults have a high potential for abuse and are tightly controlled drugs. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians, neurologists, and in certain circumstances general practitioners can prescribe them. They are available in the form of pills, tablets, patches that go on the skin or liquids.

Children and adolescents who are dependent on stimulants often suffer from weight loss and appetite problems. They can also develop tics when the dose is too high. If this occurs, the doctor might reduce the dosage to stop the drug from leading to a worsening of symptoms.

Stimulant medication is used by about 70% to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. A majority of children and young adults notice that their symptoms improve through treatment. This is especially relevant for children who have parents, teachers, or caregivers who have reported improvements.


Early use of stimulants can reduce the risk of substance use disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens, and colleagues81,82, and Biederman, et al83, found that stimulant therapy reduces the risk of developing substance use disorders during the adolescent period. However this protective effect fades in the early years of adulthood.