An In-Depth Look Back How People Discussed Treatment For ADD 20 Years Ago Treatment For ADHD

The main treatment options for add are medications and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). The medications contain stimulants such as methylphenidate, amphetamine and atomoxetine. They may also be nonstimulants, like clonidine and guanfacine.

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

Stimulants

Stimulants boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels between synapses in the brain. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity as well as impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines which are similar to each other. The dosage of the medicine is contingent on the biochemistry of each patient and how they react to it. It can take five to seven days before the full effects of the medication become apparent. Improved concentration, better memory, better sleep and reduced impulse control are all indications that the medicine is working.

These medications can have side effects, including diminished appetite and trouble sleeping, and may increase blood pressure and heart rate. Some people who have a medical condition, such as high blood pressure or heart disease shouldn't take them. These are highly controlled drugs with the potential for misuse. Only psychiatrists or paediatricians or in certain cases general practitioners, are able to prescribe stimulants. You can find them 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. When the dose is excessive, they could also develop the tics. If this occurs, the doctor might reduce the dosage to prevent the drug from causing worsening of symptoms.

About 70% to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD are treated with stimulant drugs. The majority of adolescents and children find that their symptoms improve when treated. This is especially the case for children who have teachers, parents or caregivers who report improvements.


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