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» Medications » Medications Prescribed for ADHD
Medications Prescribed for ADD and ADHD
People with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have difficulty sustaining attention and concentration. They typically exhibit inappropriate levels of activity, distractibility, and impulsivity. While ADD and ADHD are usually diagnosed in childhood, they can last (often undetected) throughout adolescence into adulthood. If left untreated, the disorder can have long-term effects on a person s ability to function well in social situations and to do well at school or work. Over time, those with untreated ADD or ADHD can be at high risk for developing depression, anxiety disorders, or other emotional problems.
Both ADD and ADHD are very complex conditions; an individual with either of the disorders may have very different symptoms than another person who has the same disorder. Although not all health care professionals distinguish between types of ADD and ADHD in the same way, most use the following types:
- Predominantly Inattentive Type
- Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Type
- Combined Type
Click here to learn more about ADD and ADHD, located in 4therapy s Conditions section.
Sometimes a combination of therapy and medication is indicated. Of all the medications prescribed to treat ADHD, stimulants are often the most effective. Paradoxically, medications that are mild stimulants often deliver a calming effect to the central nervous system (brain and nerves) of those with ADHD. In some cases, antihypertensives or antidepressants may be prescribed. Whenever medication is included as part of the overall treatment plan, it is extremely important to work closely with the prescribing physician or therapist.
Some children whose treatment for ADHD includes medication may no longer need to interrupt their school day to take their afternoon dose of Ritalin. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Concerta, a drug that works like Ritalin, but lasts for 12 hours so children can take their daily dose before they leave for school in the morning. Concerta went on the market in August, 2000.
Medications Prescribed for ADD and ADHD include
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