ADHD and Medication
Medications can help people with ADHD focus, manage hyperactivity and impulsive behavior, and complete tasks. They can also help reduce anxiety and depression.
The most common medicines prescribed to children and teens with ADHD are stimulants. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Focalin are among the most commonly prescribed stimulants. Doctors monitor children closely to look for signs of addiction.
my explanation are among the medications that doctors typically prescribe for ADHD. They are believed to work by enhancing the activity of brain regions that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, which is the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is also available as amphetamines and a newer drug known as quebrachine (brand names include Quelbree). Doctors may suggest extended release or long-acting formulations of these drugs so that the drug builds up slowly in the body and then wear off more gradually. This can reduce the chance of adverse negative side effects and decrease the chance of a sudden "reboundeffects as the drug wears down.
Researchers believe stimulants can help people with ADHD because they increase levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is found in the brain. Dopamine is believed to improve concentration and focus, and reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Dopamine can also boost the activity neurons that send signals to the nucleus Acumbens which are involved in motivation pleasure, reward, and motivation.
Research suggests that people with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine than normal in the frontal cortex, an area of the brain responsible for these "executive" functions as organizing and planning. This can lead to problems with time management, completing tasks and suppressing emotions. Research also suggests that stimulant medications could help improve frontal cortex function for those suffering from ADHD by preventing the reuptake of dopamine as well as norepinephrine.
Certain people suffering from ADHD do not benefit from stimulant medications or don't take them well. This could be due to the potential for abuse or addiction or intolerance to certain side effects, such as insomnia and jitteriness. In these cases, other medication options may be considered for treatment, such as Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are usually prescribed for ADHD "off-label" because they are believed to increase attention and are associated with the lowest risk of addiction or abuse.
Psychoeducation can be given in some cases to help children, teenagers and adults recognize their condition and manage their symptoms. Therapists may also employ the behavioural therapy method, which focuses on helping people learn to change their behavior and habits.
There's much debate as to whether ADHD exists and, if it does, what its causes are. Some advocates advocate for more stringent diagnostic criteria, and the prohibition of prescribing stimulants to anyone who does not meet them. Others advocate non-stimulant therapy that is as effective and has less side negative effects. There is a growing trend to encourage more behavior modification, which could be more effective than medication in the long run. This could include a variety of psychological strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and problem-solving skills training. It can also include parenting skills that can help reduce the impulsiveness and distractions within the home environment. Other methods of behavior modification, like family therapy and training based on rewards, can be helpful too.