ADHD Medication: What You Need to Know

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of people around the world. Symptoms of ADHD can include difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness.

There are a number of different treatments available for ADHD, including medication, therapy, coaching and lifestyle changes. Medication is often the first line of treatment for ADHD, and it can be very effective in reducing symptoms, but “Pills don’t give you Skills”,

NHS guidelines suggest medication in conjunction with coaching is more effective.

What is ADHD medication?

ADHD medication is a type of drug that is used to treat the symptoms of ADHD. There are two main types of ADHD medication: stimulants and non-stimulants.

Stimulants are the most common type of ADHD medication. They work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Dopamine and norepinephrine are neurotransmitters that play a role in attention, focus, and impulse control.

Non-stimulants are less common than stimulants, but they can be effective for some people. Non-stimulants work by affecting other neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine.

How does ADHD medication work?

The exact way that ADHD medication works is not fully understood. However, it is thought that stimulants work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in attention, focus, and impulse control.

Non-stimulants work by affecting other neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters also play a role in attention, focus, and impulse control.

What are the side effects of ADHD medication?

The most common side effects of ADHD medication are:

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty sleeping

• Headaches

• Dry mouth

• Racing thoughts

• Restlessness

• Anxiety

These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience any serious side effects, such as chest pain, seizures, or suicidal thoughts, you should stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

How to choose the right ADHD medication

There are a number of different ADHD medications available, so it is important to choose the right one for you. Your doctor will help you choose the right medication based on your individual needs and preferences.

Some factors to consider when choosing an ADHD medication include:

• Your age

• Your symptoms

• Your other medical conditions

• Your lifestyle

• Your preferences

Living with ADHD

ADHD medication can be very effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD. However, it is important to remember that medication is not a cure for ADHD. You will still need to make lifestyle changes to manage your symptoms.

Some lifestyle changes that can help you manage ADHD include:

• Getting enough sleep

• Eating a healthy diet

• Exercising regularly

• Learning coping skills

• Getting organised

Conclusion

ADHD medication can be a very effective way to manage the symptoms of ADHD. However, it is important to choose the right medication for you and to take it as prescribed by your doctor. You should also make lifestyle changes to help you manage your symptoms.

Medication alongside coaching is the gold standard of treatment.