Adderall Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Loss of appetite, weight loss, dry mouth, stomach upset/pain, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, fever, nervousness, and trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes (such as coldness, numbness, pain, or skin color changes), unusual wounds on the fingers or toes, mental/mood/behavior changes (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, abnormal thoughts, thoughts of suicide), uncontrolled movements, continuous chewing movements/teeth grinding, outbursts of words/sounds, change in sexual ability/desire, frequent/prolonged erections (in males).

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: shortness of breath, chest/jaw/left arm pain, fainting, severe headache, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, seizures, swelling of the ankles/feet, extreme tiredness, blurred vision, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, confusion.

This medication may increase serotonin and rarely cause a very serious condition called serotonin syndrome/toxicity. The risk increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin, so tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take (see Drug Interactions section). Get medical help right away if you develop some of the following symptoms: fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, twitching muscles, unexplained fever, unusual agitation/restlessness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US –

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Vyvanse oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Nausea, vomiting, constipation, stomach/abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dry mouth, headache, nervousness, dizziness, trouble sleeping, sweating, weight loss, irritability, and restlessness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: blurred vision, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood/behavior changes (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, depression, hallucinations, abnormal thoughts/behavior, suicidal thoughts/attempts), uncontrolled movements, muscle twitching/shaking, signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes (such as coldness, numbness, pain, or skin color changes), unusual wounds on the fingers or toes, outbursts of words/sounds, change in sexual ability/interest, swelling ankles/feet, extreme tiredness, rapid/unexplained weight loss, frequent/prolonged erections (in males).

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: shortness of breath, fainting, chest/jaw/left arm pain, seizures, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, confusion, sudden vision changes.

This medication may increase serotonin and rarely cause a very serious condition called serotonin syndrome/toxicity. The risk increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin, so tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the drugs you take (see Drug Interactions section). Get medical help right away if you develop some of the following symptoms: fast heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, twitching muscles, unexplained fever, unusual agitation/restlessness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US –

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Concerta Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Nervousness, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, weight loss, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

An empty tablet shell may appear in your stool. This effect is harmless because your body has already absorbed the medication.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of blood flow problems in the fingers or toes (such as coldness, numbness, pain, or skin color changes), unusual wounds on the fingers or toes, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood/behavior changes (such as agitation, aggression, mood swings, abnormal thoughts, thoughts of suicide), uncontrolled muscle movements (such as twitching, shaking), sudden outbursts of words/sounds that are hard to control, vision changes (such as blurred vision).

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: fainting, seizure, symptoms of a heart attack (such as chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating), symptoms of a stroke (such as weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, sudden vision changes, confusion).

Rarely, males (including young boys and teens) may have a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours while using this medication. Caregivers/parents should also be watchful for this serious side effect in boys. If a painful or prolonged erection occurs, stop using this drug and get medical help right away, or permanent problems could occur. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US –

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

ADHD Medication Information – Campus Health

All students using stimulant medications for ADHD should know the following information.

If you take medication, know The name of it and how it works.

The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD include:

• Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)
• Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)
• Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)
• Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine)
• Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)

Ritalin (methylphenidate), Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) and Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) come as either short-acting (usually 4 hours) or long-acting (6-12 hours) preparations. You can find more information about ADD – ADHD, diagnosis, and treatment at the National Institute of Mental Health.

If you need stimulant medication to concentrate in high school, you most likely will need medication to concentrate in college.

Approximately 70% of individuals with ADHD continue to have problems with attention throughout their lifespan.

Stimulants improve cognitive functioning, but you still have to put in time studying and attending classes.

Taking medication before classes can help you concentrate on what is going on around you. Stimulants can also help you stay focused while you are reading and, thus, improve your reading comprehension  The Learning Center offers an Academic Success Program, providing services for undergraduate, professional, and graduate students who have a documented attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). See learningcenter.unc.edu/ldadhd-services/ for more information.

ADD/ADHD affects all aspects of life – social, home and employment.

It is important to assess how much the symptoms of ADD/ADHD are affecting your functioning in all of these settings and to take your medication accordingly. Driven to Distraction by Edward Hallowell and John Ratey and ADD Friendly Ways to Organize Your Life by Judith Kolberg discuss coping with ADHD.

It is important to take medication as prescribed by your physician.

Don’t self-medicate. Many students have a mistaken notion that, if one pill works well, two will work even better. While that may be true for other medications, that is not the case with stimulants. A specific amount of medication fits each person’s brain chemistry, which is why you should work with a medical provider to periodically reassess whether your dosage is working for you.

It is illegal to share your prescription medication.

Federal law states that all prescription medications should be kept in their original container and labeled with your name and the name/dose of the medication. It is a criminal offense and a violation of the UNC Honor Code to obtain stimulant medications by fraudulent means, possess these medications without a prescription, or give or sell these medications to others.

Stimulant medication should never be used while using drugs or alcohol.

Taking stimulants affects the metabolism of alcohol in the body. Mixing the two can result in higher blood alcohol levels and increase the risk of alcohol poisoning. Critical signs of alcohol poisoning, where a person needs medical care, include mental confusion, stupor, coma, vomiting, seizures, slow breathing, and low body temperature. Additionally, do not mix recreational drugs and stimulant medications.

Check-ups are important.

Check-in with Campus Health when you arrive and then as directed by your provider usually every month to every three months. Visit Campus Health to set up scheduled appointments for you to receive your medication prescriptions regularly. You will also have your heart rate and blood pressure checked at each visit to make sure you are not experiencing harmful side effects from your medication. In addition, be sure you visit a primary care physician at least once per year for an overall examination. As with all chronic conditions and medications that are taken routinely, it is important to have a regular check-up. Blood tests may also be needed on a regular basis.

Report any side effects promptly.

Do not stop your medication on your own. Talk with someone about addressing these side effects. A change in medication or reduction in dose may be all that you need, but let the professional decide that course of action.

*Adaptation of Top Ten Things I Wish Students With ADHD Knew About Their Medications, Patricia O. Quinn, M.D., The Official Newsletter of the Association on Higher Education & Disability, April 1998, Vol. 22, No. 2

ADHD Medications – HelpGuide.org

adhd

Are ADHD drugs right for you or your child? What you need to know, including common side effects and tips for taking them responsibly.

Medication for ADHD: What you need to know

Medication can help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity, inattentiveness, and impulsivity in children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), formerly known as ADD. However, medications come with side effects and risks—and they’re not the only treatment option. Whether you’re the parent or the patient, it’s important to learn the facts about ADHD medication so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you or your child.

The first thing to understand is exactly what medications for ADHD can and can’t do. ADHD medication may help improve the ability to concentrate, control impulses, plan ahead, and follow through with tasks. However, it isn’t a magic pill that will fix all of your or your child’s problems. Even when the medication is working, a child with ADHD might still struggle with forgetfulness, emotional problems, and social awkwardness, or an adult with disorganization, distractibility, and relationship difficulties. That’s why it’s so important to also make lifestyle changes that include regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep.

Medication doesn’t cure ADHD. It can relieve symptoms while it’s being taken, but once medication stops, those symptoms come back. Also, ADHD medication helps some more than others. Some people experience dramatic improvement while others experience only modest gains. Because each person responds differently and unpredictably to medication for ADHD, its use should always be personalized to the individual and closely monitored by a doctor. When medication for ADHD is not carefully monitored, it is less effective and more risky.

Stimulant medications for ADHD

Stimulants are the most common type of medication prescribed for attention deficit disorder. They have the longest track record for treating ADHD and the most research to back up their effectiveness. The stimulant class of medication includes widely used drugs such as Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexedrine.

Stimulants are believed to work by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with motivation, pleasure, attention, and movement. For many people with ADHD, stimulant medications boost concentration and focus while reducing hyperactive and impulsive behaviors.

Short-acting vs. long-acting stimulants

Stimulants for ADHD come in both short- and long-acting dosages. Short-acting stimulants peak after several hours, and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting or extended-release stimulants last 8-12 hours, and are usually taken just once a day.

The long-acting versions of ADHD medication are often preferred, since people with ADHD often have trouble remembering to take their pills. Taking just one dose a day is much easier and more convenient.

Common side effects of stimulants include:

• Feeling restless and jittery
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite
• Headaches
• Upset stomach

• Irritability, mood swings
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Racing heartbeat
• Tics

Stimulant medications may also cause personality changes. Some people become withdrawn, listless, rigid, or less spontaneous and talkative. Others develop obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Since stimulants raise blood pressure and heart rate, many experts worry about the dangers of taking these ADHD drugs for extended periods.

Stimulant medication safety concerns

Beyond the potential side effects, there are a number of safety concerns associated with the use of stimulant medications for ADHD.

Effect on the developing brain. The long-term impact of ADHD medication on the youthful, developing brain is not yet known. Some researchers are concerned that the use of drugs such as Ritalin in children and teens might interfere with normal brain development.

Heart-related problems. ADHD stimulant medications have been found to cause sudden death in children and adults with heart conditions. The American Heart Association recommends that all individuals, including children, have a cardiac evaluation prior to starting a stimulant. An electrocardiogram is recommended if the person has a history of heart problems.

Psychiatric problems. Stimulants for ADHD can trigger or exacerbate symptoms of hostility, aggression, anxiety, depression, and paranoia. People with a personal or family history of suicide, depression, or bipolar disorder are at a particularly high risk, and should be carefully monitored when taking stimulants.

Potential for abuse. Stimulant abuse is a growing problem, particularly among teens and young adults. College students take this medication for a boost when cramming for exams or pulling all-nighters. Others abuse stimulant meds for their weight-loss properties. If your child is taking stimulants, make sure he or she isn’t sharing the pills or selling them.

ADHD stimulants are not recommended for those with:

• Any type of heart defect or disease
• High blood pressure
• Hyperthyroidism

• Glaucoma
• High levels of anxiety
• A history of drug abuse

Stimulant Medication Red Flags

Call your doctor right away if you or your child experience any of the following symptoms while taking stimulant medication for ADHD:

• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• fainting
• seeing or hearing things that aren’t real
• suspicion or paranoia

Non-stimulant medications for ADHD

In addition to the traditional stimulant drugs, there are several other medications used to treat ADHD, including Strattera, atypical antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications. In most cases, non-stimulant medications are considered when stimulants haven’t worked or have caused intolerable side effects.

Strattera

Strattera, also known by its generic name atomoxetine, is the only non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA for ADHD treatment. Unlike stimulants, which affect dopamine, Strattera boosts the levels of norepinephrine, a different brain chemical.

Strattera is longer-acting than the stimulant drugs. Its effects last over 24 hours—making it a good option for those who have trouble getting started in the morning. Since it has some antidepressant properties, it’s also a top choice for those with co-existing anxiety or depression. Another plus is that it doesn’t exacerbate tics or Tourette’s Syndrome.

On the other hand, Strattera doesn’t appear to be as effective as the stimulant medications for treating symptoms of hyperactivity.

Common side effects of Strattera include:

• Sleepiness
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain or upset stomach
• Nausea or vomiting
• Mood swings

Straterra can also cause insomnia and appetite suppression, but these side effects are more common in stimulants.

Strattera Suicide Risk in Children

Strattera may increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some people, especially children and younger adults who have bipolar disorder or depression in addition to ADHD.

Call the doctor immediately if your child shows agitation, irritability, suicidal thinking or behaviors, and unusual changes in behavior.

Other medication options

The following medications are sometimes used “off-label” in the treatment of attention deficit disorder, although they are not FDA approved for this purpose. They should only be considered when stimulants or Strattera aren’t viable options.

High blood pressure medication for ADHD – Certain blood pressure medications can be used to treat ADHD. Options include clonidine (Catapres) and guanfacine (Tenex). But while these medications can be effective for hyperactivity, impulsivity, and aggression, they are less helpful when it comes to attention problems.

Antidepressants for ADHD – For people suffering from both ADHD and depression, certain antidepressants, which target multiple neurotransmitters in the brain, may be prescribed. Wellbutrin, also known by the generic name bupropion, is most widely used. Wellbutrin targets both norepinephrine and dopamine. Another option is the use of tricyclic antidepressants.

Deciding whether or not to take ADHD medication

Even when armed with all the facts, deciding whether or not to take ADD/ADHD medication isn’t always easy. If you’re unsure, don’t rush the decision. Take your time to weigh the options. And if the medication is for your child, be sure to get their input in the decision-making process.

Most importantly, trust your instincts and do what feels right to you. Don’t let anyone—be it your physician or the principal at your child’s school—pressure your child into medication if you’re not comfortable with it. Remember: medication isn’t the only treatment option. For young children especially, medication should be viewed as a last resort, not the first course of treatment to try.

Questions to ask an ADHD specialist

Consulting with an ADHD specialist or an experienced psychiatrist can help you understand the pros and cons of medication. Here are some questions to ask:

• What ADHD treatments do you recommend?
• Can the symptoms be managed without medication?
• What medications do you recommend and what are the side effects?
• How effective is medication for ADHD?
• How long will the medication be necessary for treatment?
• What factors will influence the decision to stop medication?

For Parents: Helpful questions about ADHD medication

When deciding whether or not to put your child on medication, Jerome Schultz, Ph.D., ADHD expert, says to first consider the following questions:

• Has my child been helped by non-medication approaches? Self-calming techniques, deep breathing, and yoga can often help children with ADHD.
• Has the school tried to teach my child to be more attentive and less active?
• What is the decision to put my child on medication based on? Is it the result of behavioral observations over time and in different settings, such as in school and at home?
• When is my child at their best? Fishing with an uncle or playing video games? Help the physician understand how pervasive or selective the problem is.
• Does my child have other conditions that can be mistaken for hyperactivity? Children exposed to toxic chemicals or who have undiagnosed learning disabilities and low-level anxiety disorder may demonstrate similar behaviors.

Source: Family Education Network

ADHD medication alone is not enough

Treatment for attention deficit disorder isn’t just about seeing doctors or taking medication. There are many ways to help yourself or your child tackle the challenges of ADHD and lead a calmer, more productive life. With the right tips and tools, you can manage many of the symptoms of your ADHD on your own. Even if you choose to take medication, healthy lifestyle habits and other self-help strategies may enable you to take a lower dose.

Exercise regularly. Exercising is one of the most effective ways to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. Physical activity boosts the brain’s dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels—all of which affect focus and attention. Try walking, skateboarding, hiking, dancing or playing a favorite sport. Encourage your child to put down the video games and play outside.

Eat a healthy diet. While diet doesn’t cause ADHD, it does have an effect on mood, energy levels, and symptoms. Set regular snack and meal times. Add more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet and make sure you’re getting enough zinc, iron, and magnesium.

Get plenty of sleep. Regular quality sleep can lead to vast improvement in the symptoms of ADHD. Simple changes to daytime habits go a long way toward resting well at night. Have a set bedtime and stick to it. Avoid caffeine later in the day.

Try therapy. ADHD professionals can help you or your child learn new skills to cope with symptoms and change habits that are causing problems. Some therapies focus on managing stress and anger or controlling impulsive behaviors, while others teach you how to manage time, improve organizational skills, and persist toward goals.

Maintain a positive attitude. A positive attitude and common sense are your best assets for treating ADHD. When you are in a good frame of mind, you are more likely to be able to connect with your own needs or your child’s.

Guidelines for taking ADHD medication

If you decide to take medication for ADHD, it’s important to take the drug as directed. Following your doctor and pharmacist’s instructions will help you maximize the effectiveness of medication for ADHD and minimize the side effects and risks. Here are some guidelines for safe use:

Learn about the prescribed medication. Find out everything you can about the ADHD medication you or your child is taking, including potential side effects, how often to take it, special warnings, and other substances that should be avoided, such as over-the-counter cold medication.

Be patient. Finding the right medication and dose is a trial-and-error process. It will take some experimenting, as well as open, honest communication with your doctor.

Start small. It’s always best to start with a low dose and work up from there. The goal is to find the lowest possible dose that relieves you or your child’s symptoms.

Monitor the drug’s effects. Pay close attention to the effect the medication is having on your or your child’s emotions and behavior. Keep track of any side effects and monitor how well the medication is working to reduce symptoms.

Taper off slowly. If you or your child wants to stop taking medication, call the doctor for guidance on gradually decreasing the dose. Abruptly stopping medication can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, depression, and headaches.

Talking to your child about ADHD medication

Many kids and teens with ADHD don’t take their medication correctly—or stop taking it without talking to their parents or doctor—so if your child is on ADHD meds, make sure that he or she understands how to take the medication correctly and why following prescription guidelines are important.

Encourage your child to come to you with any medication-related concerns so you can work together to solve the problem or find another treatment option. It’s also important to remember that ADHD medication should never have a numbing effect on a child’s energy, curiosity or enthusiasm. A child still needs to behave like a child.

Monitoring ADHD medication’s effects on your child

Here is a list of questions you should ask when your child begins medication therapy, changes dosage, or starts taking a different medication:

• Is the medication having a positive impact on your child’s mood and/or behavior?
• Do you think the dosage or medication is working? Does your child think the dosage or medication is working?
• Does the dose need to be increased or decreased? What was the change in a specific behavior or set of behaviors that caused you to conclude that the medication needed to be evaluated?
• Is your child experiencing any side effects, such as headaches, stomachaches, fatigue or sleeplessness, (or suicidal thoughts if taking Strattera)? What is the likelihood that those side effects will last? (Ask your doctor). Do any lasting side effects (if any) outweigh the medication’s benefits?
• Do you or your child think a medication or dosage level has stopped working?

Source: From Chaos to Calm: Effective Parenting of Challenging Children with ADHD and Other Behavioral Problems, by Janet E. Heininger and Sharon K. Weiss.

Dealing with side effects

Most children and adults taking medication for ADHD will experience at least a few side effects. Sometimes, side effects go away after the first few weeks on the medication. You may also be able to eliminate or reduce unpleasant side effects with a few simple strategies.

Loss of appetite. To deal with reduced appetite, eat healthy snacks throughout the day and push dinner to a later time when the medication has worn off.

Insomnia. If getting to sleep is a problem, try taking the stimulant earlier in the day. If you or your child is taking an extended-release stimulant, you can also try switching to the short-acting form. Also avoid caffeinated beverages, especially in the afternoon or evening.

Stomach upset or headaches. Don’t take the medication on an empty stomach, which can cause nausea, stomach pain, and headaches. Headaches can also be triggered by medication that’s wearing off, so switching to a long-acting drug may help.

Dizziness. First, have you or your child’s blood pressure checked. If it’s normal, you may want to reduce your dose or switch to a long-acting stimulant. Also make sure you’re drinking enough fluids.

Mood changes. If medication is causing irritability, depression, agitation, or other emotional side effects, try lowering the dose. Moodiness may also be caused by the rebound effect, in which case it may help to overlap the doses or switch to an extended-release medication.

If troublesome side effects persist despite your best efforts to manage them, talk to your doctor about adjusting the dose or trying a different drug. Many people respond better to the long-acting or extended release formulations of ADHD medication, which build gradually in the bloodstream and then wear off slowly. This minimizes the ups and downs caused by fluctuating medication levels and causes less of a rebound effect, where symptoms return, often worse than before, as the drug wears off.

Authors: Lawrence Robinson, Melinda Smith, M.A., Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., and Damon Ramsey, MD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Treatment

Treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can help relieve the symptoms and make the condition much less of a problem in day-to-day life.

ADHD can be treated using medicine or therapy, but a combination of both is often best.

Treatment is usually arranged by a specialist, such as a paediatrician or psychiatrist, although the condition may be monitored by a GP.

Medicine

There are 5 types of medicine licensed for the treatment of ADHD:

• methylphenidate
• lisdexamfetamine
• dexamfetamine
• atomoxetine
• guanfacine

These medicines are not a permanent cure for ADHD but may help someone with the condition concentrate better, be less impulsive, feel calmer, and learn and practise new skills.

Some medicines need to be taken every day, but some can be taken just on school days. Treatment breaks are occasionally recommended to assess whether the medicine is still needed.

If you were not diagnosed with ADHD until adulthood, a GP and specialist can discuss which medicines and therapies are suitable for you.

If you or your child is prescribed one of these medicines, you’ll probably be given small doses at first, which may then be gradually increased. You or your child will need to see a GP for regular check-ups to ensure the treatment is working effectively and check for signs of any side effects or problems.

It’s important to let the GP know about any side effects and talk to them if you feel you need to stop or change treatment.

Your specialist will discuss how long you should take your treatment but, in many cases, treatment is continued for as long as it is helping.

Methylphenidate

Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medicine for ADHD. It belongs to a group of medicines called stimulants, which work by increasing activity in the brain, particularly in areas that play a part in controlling attention and behaviour.

Methylphenidate may be offered to adults, teenagers and children over the age of 5 with ADHD.

The medicine can be taken as either immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) or as modified-release tablets (taken once a day in the morning, with the dose released throughout the day).

Common side effects of methylphenidate include:

• a small increase in blood pressure and heart rate
• loss of appetite, which can lead to weight loss or poor weight gain
• trouble sleeping
• headaches
• stomach aches
• mood swings

Lisdexamfetamine

Lisdexamfetamine is a medicine that stimulates certain parts of the brain. It improves concentration, helps focus attention and reduces impulsive behaviour.

It may be offered to teenagers and children over the age of 5 with ADHD if at least 6 weeks of treatment with methylphenidate has not helped. Adults may be offered lisdexamfetamine as the first-choice medicine instead of methylphenidate.

Lisdexamfetamine comes in capsule form, taken once a day.

Common side effects of lisdexamfetamine include:

• decreased appetite, which can lead to weight loss or poor weight gain
• aggression
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• headaches
• diarrhoea
• nausea and vomiting

Dexamfetamine

Dexamfetamine is similar to lisdexamfetamine and works in the same way. It may be offered to adults, teenagers and children over the age of 5 with ADHD.

Dexamfetamine is usually taken as a tablet once or twice a day, although an oral solution is also available.

Common side effects of dexamfetamine include:

• decreased appetite
• mood swings
• agitation and aggression
• dizziness
• headaches
• diarrhoea
• nausea and vomiting

Atomoxetine

Atomoxetine works differently from other ADHD medicines.

It’s a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which means it increases the amount of a chemical in the brain called noradrenaline.

This chemical passes messages between brain cells, and increasing it can aid concentration and help control impulses.

Atomoxetine may be offered to adults, teenagers and children over the age of 5 if it’s not possible to use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. It’s also licensed for use in adults if symptoms of ADHD are confirmed.

Atomoxetine comes in capsule form, usually taken once or twice a day.

Common side effects of atomoxetine include:

• a small increase in blood pressure and heart rate
• nausea and vomiting
• stomach aches
• trouble sleeping
• dizziness
• headaches
• irritability

Atomoxetine has also been linked to some more serious side effects that are important to look out for, including suicidal thoughts and liver damage.

If either you or your child begin to feel depressed or suicidal while taking this medicine, speak to your doctor.

Guanfacine

Guanfacine acts on part of the brain to improve attention, and it also reduces blood pressure.

It may be offered to teenagers and children over the age of 5 if it’s not possible to use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. Guanfacine should not be offered to adults with ADHD.

Guanfacine is usually taken as a tablet once a day, in the morning or evening.

Common side effects include:

• tiredness or fatigue
• headache
• abdominal pain
• dry mouth

Therapy

As well as taking medicine, different therapies can be useful in treating ADHD in children, teenagers and adults. Therapy is also effective in treating additional problems, such as conduct or anxiety disorders, that may appear with ADHD.

Some of the therapies that may be used are outlined below.

Psychoeducation

Psychoeducation means you or your child will be encouraged to discuss ADHD and its effects. It can help children, teenagers and adults make sense of being diagnosed with ADHD, and can help you to cope and live with the condition.

Behaviour therapy

Behaviour therapy provides support for carers of children with ADHD and may involve teachers as well as parents. Behaviour therapy usually involves behaviour management, which uses a system of rewards to encourage your child to try to control their ADHD.

If your child has ADHD, you can identify types of behaviour you want to encourage, such as sitting at the table to eat. Your child is then given some sort of small reward for good behaviour and has a privilege removed for poor behaviour.

For teachers, behaviour management involves learning how to plan and structure activities, and to praise and encourage children for even very small amounts of progress.

Parent training and education programmes

If your child has ADHD, specially tailored parent training and education programmes can help you learn specific ways of talking to your child, and playing and working with them to improve their attention and behaviour.

You may also be offered parent training before your child is formally diagnosed with ADHD.

These programmes are usually arranged in groups of around 10 to 12 parents. A programme usually consists of 10 to 16 meetings, lasting up to 2 hours each.

Being offered a parent training and education programme does not mean you have been a bad parent – it aims to teach parents and carers about behaviour management, while increasing confidence in your ability to help your child and improve your relationship.

Social skills training

Social skills training involves your child taking part in role-play situations and aims to teach them how to behave in social situations by learning how their behaviour affects others.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

CBT is a talking therapy that can help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave. A therapist would try to change how your child feels about a situation, which would in turn potentially change their behaviour.

CBT can be carried out with a therapist individually or in a group.

Other possible treatments

There are other ways of treating ADHD that some people with the condition find helpful, such as cutting out certain foods and taking supplements. However, there’s no strong evidence these work, and they should not be attempted without medical advice.

Diet

People with ADHD should eat a healthy, balanced diet. Do not cut out foods before seeking medical advice.

Some people may notice a link between types of food and worsening ADHD symptoms. If this is the case, keep a diary of what you eat and drink, and what behaviour follows. Discuss this with your GP, who may refer you to a dietitian (a healthcare professional who specialises in nutrition).

Supplements

Some studies have suggested that supplements of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids may be beneficial for people with ADHD, although the evidence supporting this is very limited.

It’s advisable to talk to your GP before using any supplements, because some can react unpredictably with medicine or make it less effective.

You should also remember that some supplements should not be taken long term, as they can reach dangerous levels in your body.

Tips for parents

If you’re the parent of a child with ADHD:

• be sure your GP or specialist helps you understand the difference between ADHD and any other problems your child may have
• think about who else needs to know about your child’s ADHD, such as their school or nursery
• find out the side effects of any medicine your child takes and what you need to look out for
• getting to know people at local support groups can stop you feeling isolated and unable to cope

For information on local support groups, contact Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service (ADDISS) or call 020 8952 2800.

Read more about living with ADHD.

Page last reviewed: 30 May 2018
Next review due: 30 May 2021

ADHD Medication, Treatment & Stimulant Therapy

Overview

What is stimulant therapy?

Stimulant therapy is the most commonly used treatment for Attention-Deficit Disorder/ Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD.

Stimulants are an effective way of managing ADHD symptoms such as short attention span, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. They may be used alone or in combination with behavior therapy.

These drugs improve ADHD symptoms in about 70% of adults and 70% to 80% of children shortly after starting treatment. Improvements include reduced interrupting, fidgeting, and other hyperactive symptoms, as well as improved task completion and home relationships.

Improvements in behavior and attention span usually continue as long as the medication is taken, although benefits in social adjustment and school performance have not yet been shown to endure over the long term.

These medications are not considered to be habit-forming when used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents, and there is no evidence that their use leads to drug abuse. Nonetheless, there is a potential for abuse and addiction with any stimulant medication, especially if a person has a history of substance abuse. Recent research, nevertheless, shows that individuals with ADHD had a lower incidence of substance use disorder if they were medically treated than if they were not treated.

Common stimulants for the treatment of ADHD

There are many stimulants available: short acting (immediate-release), intermediate-acting, and long-acting forms. Common stimulants include:

• Adderall® (intermediate-acting)
• Adderall XR® (long-acting)
• Concerta® (long-acting)
• Daytrana® (long-acting patch)
• Dexedrine® (short-acting)
• Dexedrine® Spansule® (intermediate-acting)
• Focalin® (short-acting)
• Focalin XR® (long-acting)
• Metadate CD® (long-acting)
• Metadate® ER (intermediate-acting)
• Methylin™ ER (intermediate-acting)
• Ritalin® (short-acting)
• Ritalin LA® (long-acting)
• Ritalin SR® (intermediate-acting)
• Vyvanse® (long-acting)

The short-acting forms of the drug are usually taken 2 or 3 times a day and the long-acting ones just once a day.

Newer forms of some stimulant drugs may reduce side effects and relieve symptoms for a longer period of time. They include Concerta (10 to 12 hour duration), Ritalin LA (6 to 8 hours), Metadate CD (6 to 8 hours), and Adderall XR (10 to 12 hours), Vyvanse (up to 13 hours), Focalin XR (12 hours) and Daytrana (10 to12 hours).

Who should not take a stimulant drug?

• Patients with any of the following conditions or drug treatments should not take stimulant therapy: Allergy or sensitivity to stimulant medications.
• Patients with glaucoma (a condition that causes increased pressure in the eyes and can lead to blindness).
• Patients with severe anxiety, tension, agitation, or nervousness.
• Patients undergoing treatment with a type of medication called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as Nardil® (phenelzine) , Parnate® (tranylcypromine), Marplan® ( isocarboxazid), or Eldepryl® (selegeline) within 14 days of starting stimulant therapy.
• Patients with motor tics or a personal or family history of Tourette’s Syndrome.
• Patients who have current psychotic episodes or a personal history of psychosis.
• Patients with overactive thyroid.
• Patients with coronary artery disease.
• Patients with heart or blood vessel disease.
• Patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Patients with certain types of irregular heart beat.
• Patients with a history of alcohol or substance abuse.

It is important to note that this is not an all inclusive list. Your physician will need to evaluate your complete medical history and regimen of medications, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements to help determine if you would be able to take a certain stimulant.

Procedure Details

How do they work?

Stimulants regulate impulsive behavior and improve attention span and focus by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, primarily dopamine, which transmit signals between nerves.

What should I tell my doctor before starting stimulant therapy?

When taking stimulant therapy for ADHD, be sure to tell your healthcare provider:

• If you are nursing, pregnant, or plan to become pregnant.
• If you are taking or plan to take any prescription drugs, dietary supplements, herbal medicines, or nonprescription medications.
• If you have any past or present medical problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, seizures, heart disease, glaucoma, or liver or kidney disease.
• If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse or dependency, or if you have had mental health problems, including depression, manic depression, or psychosis.
• If you have a history of suicidal thoughts or if anyone in your family has tried to commit suicide.

What should I be aware of if my child is being given stimulants?

If you miss a dose, just go back to the regular prescribed dosage schedule – don’t try to catch up by taking additional doses. The following are useful guidelines to keep in mind when giving your child stimulants for ADHD:

• Always give the medication exactly as prescribed. If there are any problems or questions, call your doctor.
• When starting stimulant therapy, do so on a weekend so that you will have an opportunity to see how the child responds.
• Your doctor will probably want to start the medication out at a low dose and increase gradually until symptoms are controlled.
• Try to keep to a regular schedule, which may mean that doses will have to be given by teachers, nurses, or other caregivers.
• Children usually respond better to continuous medication use, but “medication vacations” may be planned for a day or more for children who are doing well when activities permit.

Risks / Benefits

What are some common side effects of stimulant therapy?

These may resolve after a few weeks of treatment as the body adjusts to the medication.

Other side effects may respond to a dosage adjustment or by changing to another type of stimulant. They include:

• Decreased appetite. This affects about 80% of people who take stimulant therapy.
• Weight loss. This is an issue that can often be managed by taking the medication after meals or adding protein shakes or snacks to the diet.
• Nervousness.
• Sleeplessness/Insomnia.
• Sudden, repetitive movement or sounds known as tics.

Growth reduction has been observed in some children and adolescents who take stimulants, but it has not been shown to affect final height. Children and adolescents should be followed for weight loss and growth while taking stimulants.

Visual disturbances such as blurred vision may occur with stimulant therapy.

Stimulant therapy may cause hallucinations or unusual thoughts.

Serious heart or blood vessel problems may be related to stimulant use.

Allergic reactions, with skin rashes and other, more serious allergic symptoms, can occur with stimulants, so it is best to notify your doctor if any new or unusual symptoms occur.

This is not a complete list of side effects.

If you notice any side effects that you think may be caused by stimulant medication, please contact a healthcare professional.

90,000 What is ADHD and why it cannot be cured, but it can be corrected

Fidget syndrome, a fashionable illness, an exaggerated problem – as soon as not called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADHD). But neurologists and psychiatrists warn against taking ADHD lightly: it is a diagnosis that cannot be cured, but requires some correction. The number of children with this syndrome is growing all over the world. It is important to help them correctly in childhood, so that the disease does not interfere with a full life in adulthood.

“Children with ADHD are already special in the first year of life: they are more mobile, more often make chaotic movements with their arms and legs. As a rule, these children are delayed in speech development, more awkward, inattentive. At about one and a half to two years, one can say that there are prerequisites for this syndrome, ”says a neurologist at the Tushino Children’s Hospital named after Z.A. Bashlyaeva Margarita Samigulina. “But we have the right to make this diagnosis only by the age of six, when it is possible to objectively assess inattention, hyperactivity, restlessness on the scales.We work with a psychologist, he plays with the child on the rug for about an hour, asks questions, gives assignments. And before that, we assume a syndrome, we emphasize the parents on the fact that children are more restless, disinhibited. ”

Young children with ADHD often behave like monkeys jumping from tree to tree. Children actively grab one toy or another, quickly lose interest in it, and cannot concentrate on some activity. Moreover, they are very active. All children are different, this syndrome may appear earlier in someone, later in someone, but most often parents notice the problem in one and a half to two years.

Children’s neurologist Nina Moskovkina reports: “According to the standards, by the age of one and a half, a child should develop interest, he should be able to study, build houses from cubes, assemble a pyramid, it should be interesting for him. And a hyperactive child will work out a little and quit. Such children have a reduced interest, they are not interested in anything. The most important thing is not to miss the moment when the child develops a desire to learn about the world. This is often overlooked by moms, and this is how children start to go into hyperactivity disorder with a lack of attention.You need to talk to the child all the time, he must hear the mother’s word. Even when you are just walking down the street, be sure to tell something, even better – read children’s poetry, it develops memory and attention well. Mom must explain that this is snow, and these are snowflakes, they are cold, a one-year-old child will understand this. Often parents in this crucial period of a child’s life spend all their free time on gadgets, they have no time to instill in a child a steady interest. What do we often see? A mother is walking with a child, frantically dialing something into the telephone, and the child just does not interfere. “

An active child is the norm, and all active children should not be called hyperactive. “Unfortunately, we have a problem of overdiagnosis, when parents come to see a neurologist, a psychologist, say that the child is hyperactive, and he is diagnosed with ADHD, without assessing this hyperactivity,” warns Margarita Samigulina. “In general, ADHD is a psychiatrist’s diagnosis, it is a violation in the emotional-volitional sphere, children cannot control their emotions and behavior. There are fictitious hyperactivity syndromes, when a child runs on the ceiling at home, because mom is cooking, and dad is lying on the couch and watching TV, the child is bored, and with his activity he is trying to attract the attention of his parents.This behavior is called hyperactivity by many parents. And this is just a manipulation of adults in the desire to attract their attention. ”

The number of children with ADHD has grown all over the world and in Russia too. According to the latest data from American researchers, 11% of schoolchildren in the United States suffer from this syndrome. The reasons are different, but Margarita Samigulina considers the main problematic pregnancy and childbirth: “We began to take care of premature babies more, they have an immature nervous system, and they have various lesions of the perinatal nervous system, this also affects.Many women now have pregnancy problems. There are genetically determined factors, they have not been proven, but it is believed that if mom and dad have this syndrome, then the child will also have it. But most of all, it seems to me, is prematurity, premature birth, stimulation of the birth process. ”

Very often children with ADHD have birth trauma to the cervical spine and head. Hypoxia, asphyxia, breech presentation, rapid labor, and a prolonged dry period can cause ADHD.Therefore, if all these problems were, be sure to visit a neurologist.

Neurologist Nina Moskovkina notes that smoking mom during pregnancy can also provoke this syndrome – nicotine constricts blood vessels, the child receives less oxygen. “Improper nutrition can also lead to hyperactivity. Ideally, the baby should receive breast milk. A mother who is breastfeeding a child should receive a normal amount of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, not eat junk food.If the mother does not have milk, the baby needs to be fed properly. ”

There is no treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Previously, neurologists prescribed nootropic, anti-anxiety drugs, but it was, rather, a therapy of despair to help parents, recalls Margarita Samigulina. “Today there is only one drug that really affects this syndrome – Strattera. It is expensive and is allowed only from 6-7 years old. We prescribe it when a child goes to school to help him get involved in learning, get used to lessons, learn to control himself, in high school we remove this drug, and children, as a rule, study normally.In kindergarten, this syndrome does not interfere with the child, it interferes with others, educators, and the child feels great. At school, the situation is different – due to his inattention, the student cannot learn, he cannot assimilate the material because of his syndrome, so our medication is already required there. ”

ADHD is a lifelong diagnosis and cannot be cured. Adults adapt to it, but they remain forgetful, frequent mood swings. Such adults often suffer from low self-esteem, increased self-criticism, they lack motivation, they are forgetful, uncollected, inattentive.Margarita Samigulina reports: “But this does not prevent them from living. They also go to work, do whatever is needed. It’s just that adults learn to live with this syndrome, they adapt to it. But there is such statistics that a large percentage of people with attention deficit disorder become drug addicts, alcoholics, lead an asocial lifestyle. This is how the syndrome manifests itself. They are active, and if they were not interested in something in childhood, their frantic energy was not directed in the right direction, then they find a way out only in asocial actions.Society does not accept them if their parents were unable to help them in childhood. ”

In adults, the syndrome manifests itself in different ways – some bite their nails because they cannot cope with their hyperactivity. They need to constantly look for something to do with their hands, explains Nina Moskovkina: “Soft toys with granules help, they can be fiddled with in the hands. As a rule, children with ADHD, when they grow up, do not go to specialties that require perseverance, but choose such professions where their hands work, and the head is distracted at the same time.Forging, molding, wood carving are well suited. ”

Sport helps children to correct excessive activity. Strength sports are not their option, hiking, water tourism, swimming, jogging, skiing, ice skating are recommended. The load should be moderate, because children can become overexcited, and it is not easy for them to calm down on their own. “It is important to engage in physical education, but professional sports are contraindicated (schools of the Olympic reserve). It is important that the additional activities are interesting for the child.A large school load, education in specialized schools, gymnasiums, as a rule, is beyond the strength of a child with ADHD. It is better if the child will study in a regular school with an adequate load. If possible, home (family) education is shown, they have proven themselves well in working with children with ADHD at the Montessori school, ”says a practicing psychologist, Ph.D. A.I. Herzen Julia Guseva.

In parallel with supervision by a neurologist or psychiatrist, Yulia Guseva recommends that children with ADHD take a course of psychotherapy: “Usually psychologists use play therapy when working with children with ADHD.In play, the child learns to interact with others and himself, learns to express his emotions and feelings in a socially acceptable form, in addition, the psychologist sets boundaries in the framework of therapy if they are violated in real life. Gradually, the child transfers the acquired communication skills from the psychologist’s office to real life. ”

The parent of a child with ADHD is his most important assistant and companion, the psychologist notes. One of the serious problems of such a child is self-control, volitional self-regulation.He cannot concentrate on the lessons, is distracted, cannot collect a portfolio, cannot contain himself, for example, fights with other children. “In this regard, the parent should take over the control function. To be there when the child is doing his homework, to double-check with the child if everything is collected the next day, to remind him that it is time to go to the circle. There is no need to be afraid that the child, because of such care, will never do anything himself. The fact is that children with ADHD usually have dysfunction of the frontal lobes of the brain, which, in fact, are responsible for self-control and self-regulation.As the brain matures, the child will have better control over himself. This usually happens around adolescence, if, of course, appropriate treatment was carried out. ”

For a child with ADHD, it is very important to adhere to the daily routine, a calm rhythm of life and the absence of an overabundance of additional activities, the family should establish a framework for permissible behavior. “These children do not take criticism when you shout at them, they, firstly, do not understand why they are being shouted at, and, secondly, they become more angry, trying to do something in spite,” warns the neurologist Margarita Samigulin.“And when they are treated kindly, they hear, and that is how you can get results from them. Shouting, hitting, punishing children with this syndrome is useless. ”

Russell Barkley, Christina Benton Your Naughty Child

Many parents of children with ADHD find this classic book to be of great help. The authors explain the reasons for disobedience, tell how it can be overcome, explain what to say to the child and how. They teach how to correct the child’s behavior through a system of praises, awards and mild punishments.The book contains practical diagrams, a parenting questionnaire, checklists.

Ekaterina Murashova “Children are“ mattresses ”and children are“ disasters ”. Hypodynamic and hyperdynamic syndrome “

The author tells in a fascinating way what ADHD is, how often this syndrome occurs, how it looks in practice, how doctors deal with it. Answers the most common questions that parents ask professionals, tells what to do for parents of a preschooler and schoolchild with ADHD.

Lyudmila Yasyukova “Optimization of education and development of children with MMD. Diagnostics and compensation of minimal brain dysfunctions “

Lyudmila Yasyukova devoted her whole life to the problem of ADHD not only as a psychologist, but also as a mother of children with this syndrome. She describes in detail the psychological characteristics and behavioral manifestations of ADHD, explains the neurological causes. Provides practical advice and specific teaching methods for such children.

Yulia Guseva “Features of the inclusion in the educational process of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in the Montessori environment”

peers.Psychologist Yulia Guseva tells how you can help these children.

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ADHD in adults: what prevents you from being attentive and calm :: Health :: RBC Style

Leonid Chutko ,
Professor, MD,
Head of the Laboratory for Correction of Mental Development and Adaptation, Head of the Center for Behavioral Neurology at the Institute of the Human Brain.N.P. Bekhtereva RAS

What is ADHD?

In 1902, a lecture by the English physician Still appeared in the Lancet magazine, who was the first to associate inattention and hyperactivity with a biological basis, and not with poor upbringing, as was tacitly assumed at the time.

This disorder is now called attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder. According to the majority of domestic and foreign researchers, this disease occurs in 5-10% of children.

At the same time, ADHD is 4–5 times more common in boys. In adults, this disorder occurs in 2–6% of cases and is considered as a consequence of ADHD in childhood [1].

What does attention consist of?

130 years ago, William James defined attention as “the selective focus of perception on a particular object.” According to the theory developed by Daniel Kahneman, attention is interpreted as an internal effort associated with solving a problem. At the same time, efforts are limited by the amount of energy resources, that is, attention can be depleted.

According to the hypothesis of Dr. Posner [2] and his colleagues, attention function can be divided into the following three functional components:

1. Vigilance
2. Orientation
3. Executive control

Imagine that you are driving a car and must maintain continuous attention or alertness, which is provided by the work of the right frontal and right parietal cortex. You turn left and alternately switch attention from one lane to another, including the second component – orientation, or orientation (direction) of attention to important objects.

This component works thanks to the upper parietal and temporoparietal regions, as well as the frontal gaze center. But the most difficult component – this is the third (distribution of attention between competing objects) – is associated with the work of more “intelligent” areas of the brain: the cingulate gyrus and the prefrontal cortex.

The first two components work primarily automatically, while the third component is used arbitrarily.In addition, Posner and his colleagues used the image of a spotlight beam to describe attention, which switches from one object to another, illuminating it with a certain intensity.

Causes of ADHD

ADHD is classified as a multifactorial developmental disorder, and it should always be borne in mind that there may be multiple factors affecting each other. Among the causative factors of ADHD, genetic and perinatal factors are primarily distinguished. It is interesting to note that ADHD is more common in twins and siblings.The risk of developing ADHD for relatives of patients suffering from this disease is about 30%. ADHD is more common among preterm babies. Of particular importance for the formation of ADHD among perinatal factors is the mother’s smoking during pregnancy.

Manifestations of ADHD

Clinical manifestations of the disease are determined by three main symptom complexes: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Speaking of inattention, they most often mean increased distraction and decreased concentration.At the same time, such people can do something interesting for them personally (computer games, watching TV, social networks) for hours. In addition, they have a deficit of selective attention, which manifests itself in increased distraction to extraneous stimuli, especially if these stimuli are bright and interesting. Switching attention is often also reduced.

Hyperactivity is usually understood to mean increased physical activity. Such people are constantly twirling objects in their hands, walking around the room, and so on.It should be noted that hyperactivity in adults is much less pronounced than in children.

Impulsivity manifests itself in the inability to control one’s impulses, emotional and behavioral reactions. Such people often answer without listening to the question, constantly interrupting the interlocutor. The real problem for such people is rejection, even if it is small. The propensity to take risks leads to injuries and accidents.Allocate cognitive impulsivity (reflecting hasty thinking) and behavioral impulsivity (reflecting difficulty in suppressing reactions).

Impairment of attention in adult ADHD patients leads to decreased productivity. When analyzing the academic performance of students, it was revealed that students with ADHD have a lower GPA, and also more often experience difficulties in preparing for classes compared to peers without signs of ADHD. In general, ADHD patients are less likely to pursue college degrees.Such people are characterized by a decrease in the ability to plan time, poor work organization, very frequent job changes and layoffs. However, the unemployment rate among them does not significantly differ from the level of the control group [3].

As you might expect, adults with ADHD are in lower occupational positions and earn less income than their healthy peers. In addition, young people with ADHD are more likely to need financial assistance from family members and social services than their healthy peers [4].It must be said that patients with ADHD are much more likely to make compulsive purchases, that is, suffer from shopaholism [5]. Patients with ADHD are more likely to be the culprits in road traffic accidents, as they are characterized by an aggressive driving style [6]. Such drivers often change lanes without paying attention to other cars.

How can I help patients with ADHD?

In the USA and European countries, psychostimulants (not registered in the Russian Federation) are most widely used in the treatment of ADHD.Despite the large amount of research devoted to the use of psychostimulants in the treatment of ADHD, this issue is still accompanied by discussions about possible side effects.

Studies carried out at the Center for Behavioral Neurology of the Institute of the Human Brain (St. Petersburg) have shown the effectiveness of the use of nootropics in the treatment of ADHD in adults [7]. Nootropic drugs are understood as drugs that have a positive effect on the higher integrative functions of the brain, the main manifestation of which is the improvement of learning and memory processes in case of their disorders.Tranquilizers may be used if anxiety disorders are associated with ADHD.

It is generally accepted that the treatment of ADHD should be comprehensive, that is, include both drug therapy and psychotherapeutic methods. Methods of behavioral psychotherapy are used to change (modify) behavior.

Recently, the practice of mindfulness (the art of managing attention) and meditation have been recommended for the treatment of ADHD.

There is another method of treating ADHD – the method of encephalographic biofeedback (neurofeedback), which allows the brain with the help of computer technology to find the best way to work and improve attention.

The essence of the method is that electrodes are attached to the patient’s head, through which the bioelectric activity of the brain is recorded, displayed on the computer screen. In a playful way and “by an effort of will”, the patient is invited to consciously or unconsciously find ways to reduce the pathological activity of the brain and bring the encephalogram indicators back to normal (it is also displayed on the screen). The main task is to remember such a “normal” state and try to, if not preserve it, then at least learn how to evoke it at will.

Exercise, nutrition, meditation: professor – about what the brain needs

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Inside Hyperactivity / Habr

Warning: This article was written not by a qualified psychiatrist, but by a patient with severe pathology.

Reminder: ADHD, especially in this severe form, exacerbates many cognitive biases.Patients like me have a prominent display of the Dunning-Kruger effect. Over-the-top negligence compromises facts and sources of information, and reduced intelligence in a complete lack of attention to significant details casts doubt on conclusions and generalizations.

The purpose of this article is to describe the work of the ADHD brain as honestly and impartially as possible with examples of specific cases with the maximum analysis available to me in terms of competence.
If this is an important topic for you – it concerns a child or you yourself are a moron, but really do not want to be one, welcome under cat.

Why am I writing this at all?

There are several reasons, but the main one is that for the last

article

readers poured a ton of comments, a lot of messages came in a personal message, some were written by parents, some by adults. There have also been several desperate messages that literally scream for help, despite my many warnings that I am not a psychiatrist and cannot provide qualified help. Even give a competent recommendation. But I answered everyone.The main point that I tried to convey to my parents: ADHD is not a freckle on the nose, not just a feature. This is a mental (hyperkinetic) disorder that makes life difficult in a mild form, and turns it into a nightmare in a severe one.

Unfortunately, based on the example of my own parents, I know how far people are from understanding the nature of ADHD: “We asked you to answer the phone while we were on vacation and write down who called. This is important for us at work. And why did you break the vase at our house? And broke the towel holder? ” And these questions are asked by my mother, a doctor who knows about my diagnosis, knows that I have a serious pathology, and what scale of chaos I am trying to overcome.What can I answer? It is only forgiven to lower your eyes and keep silent: “Mother, do you have dementia or what? I tried, I recorded one call. ” Before the vacation, I asked a question about how they rate the likelihood that I will comply with their request and how successfully? But I was handed a phone number. I will make a reservation right away, I am very grateful to my mother, and without her participation, help and support, my careful steps towards compensation would have been impossible. Just an illustration of the extent to which ADHD is not perceived as serious, something to be reckoned with.After all, at first glance, we do not seem to be idiots. We have a coherent speech, and it seems that we correctly understand the meaning of words. But understanding on an intellectual level the responsibility and importance of certain tasks mean little when the motivational signals coming from the hippocampus do not correspond at all to this understanding.

I will immediately answer those who think that this is just a desire to cover up their idiotic behavior with a diagnosis – there were quite a few of them in the comments to the previous article. No, it is your incompetent idiotic notions of the world that make the problem worse.In fact, ADHD, even in severe forms, is corrected and compensated for if you tackle this problem in time and take it seriously. Get rid of trad comments from your philosophy. You were heard last time.

Another pleasant motive to continue writing about ADHD was one nice young man who even did the job of de-anonymizing me and persistently wrote to me on Facebook that it was time to pick up the keyboard. Maxim, I express my sincere gratitude to you. I think I promised you this article a month and a half ago.

I will definitely write an article especially for parents. But it takes a lot of time to collect material and prepare. In principle, I already have a list of specialists from the Bekhterev Institute who wrote Ph.D. on child hyperactivity, with whom I would like to talk and interview. However, this article will be useful to you too.

The truth is that a huge number of adults live with concentration problems and unhealthy distractions. The world is full of assholes that ADHD has nothing to do with.But more than 5% (according to some estimates, up to 15-18%) of people have this congenital mental disorder. For many of them, it is quite serious. Some people try to work on themselves, but books on motivation don’t help, and society gives them the only answer – shit, that’s why you are. And you should have seen this society!

Numerous tests on the Internet do not reveal anything, and their degree of reliability is equal to 0.

ADHD can be very different and can manifest itself in different ways.Some approaches try to separate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, there have been attempts to introduce the term ADI (attention deficit disorder and impulsivity). But the problem is that a cocktail of three components: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, impulsivity, can be mixed up in each individual patient in the most bizarre ways. Yes, a classic example of the hyperactive is the electrophoretic machine, into which a screaming cat is pulled. But in other cases, attention deficit may not be accompanied by hyperactivity and, as it were, impulsivity.

I will try to describe the factors common to the entire spectrum and, as far as possible, to disassemble the mechanism of failure, as well as pay attention to the key features if you suspect Attention Deficit Disorder in yourself or your child.

If you remember my previous article, then I noted that I live with a constant sense of the messiah, sent down by a higher power to humanity (not in the schizophrenic sense, but in the sense that it seems like fucking smart). Some messages in a personal message carried desperate pleas for help: give at least advice or direct, give a hint or stretch out a straw … Such messages greatly reduce the degree of false conceit, because I have no answers, and I myself am far from being smart, no matter what seemed to be sitting by the window.

But ADHD is corrected and compensated for. The more severe pathology you encounter, the more dedication and effort it will require.

Request: if you are healthy, successful, you are good at everything, any business is arguing and you are not a psychiatrist who deals with such cases in tons, but still you really want to communicate your incompetent opinion about spineless fools, then try to restrain yourself. I know this is damn hard. Especially if you are firmly convinced that you just need to drink potassium permanganate at night and temper in an ice hole – this will make a person out of everyone.However, I am always glad to have a pleasant conversation and will gladly join an interesting and meaningful discussion and just a flood.

Short Retreat:
When I was writing the first article, all my friends unanimously pointed out to me that this was not the Gicktime format. And the very first comment fully confirmed their hypothesis. (Denkenmacht 02.02.18 at 10:32 – Why is it here?) Overall, I doubted the correctness of writing such an article. But the number of comments puzzled me.During that period, few articles provoked such heated discussions. I remember exactly the post about the launch of Falcon Heavy and the article by Meklon about teeth. But, damn it, Meklon is a lump, a hardened human being, and everyone has teeth, unlike ADHD. It was the first time the red roadster flew into space. And I sculpted my first cake in the Giktime sandbox.

Short distraction: (b …, yes, when you already get down to the article idiot …) Sorry, I can not restrain myself, very briefly about the red typewriter … maybe a word.

I really wanted to write an article about a red typewriter, but … Wanting to do something and to do it is not the same thing. It was a stunning artistic performance, an act of genuine art that lifted the genre to unattainable heights. Leonardo forever closed the question of improving the laws of painting, certainly a portrait. After La Gioconda, the rest could go home or start developing artistic interpretation. Interpretations of feelings, natural phenomena, human states have given rise to countless trends, schools and painting techniques.But Kazimir Malevich “Black Square” closed the question of interpretations in painting. You can practice any technique, but you can’t do it more concisely and more completely. Elon Musk deliberately or accidentally, in general, completely not positioning himself as a performance artist with his act of creation in the performance genre, stepped into the place where only the most brilliant of artists enter. I suppose Tesla stood on a par with Mono Lisa and the Black Square. The genre of performance will not die from this, just as painting did not die.

Often, outstanding artists, creating their creations, go so far beyond the expectations of the public that most are not even able to see, feel the phenomena.There are many examples … Gauguin, who did not wait to be understood. Stravinsky, who was booed in 1912, spat upon one of the greatest experiments in music. Perfect by Mask, not just a wow effect! Many consider this to be an excellent PR campaign and not only in Russia. The PR was great! But it was an act of art, which in significance, content and power infinitely surpasses all conceivable utilitarian tasks. A phenomenon that affects the course of development of human culture. But I’m not distracted anymore!

Hyperactivity.Two very important factors!

Factor one. Mania always accompanies hyperactivity. Rather, in the overwhelming case, not mania, but hypomania. And its strength fluctuates greatly throughout the day, month and year.
If we compare mania to a hurricane, then hypomania is still a storm.

Manias are of several types. Hypomania can also, in a weakened form, repeat some features of the course after the older sister. But we are not interested in all this. I am not a general psychiatrist.It is important for me to point out what will be key for ADHD.

For notorious bores:

MANIA

HYPOMANIA
Altman scale for self-assessment of mania.

Young Mania Scale
Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS)

MMPI – But you definitely don’t need that.

Mania – a morbid mental state with the concentration of consciousness and feelings on any one idea.

Mania (or manic syndrome) is characterized by a manic triad, which includes:

Hypertension.A good mood. Self-confidence, overestimation of one’s strengths and abilities. Downplaying the complexity of tasks. Ignoring risks. Conviction in the feasibility of any plans.

Accelerated thinking and speech. Acceleration of associative processes.

Excitement with a desire for any kind of activity.

Remember:
Fixation of thoughts and feelings on one single thing.
Strong desire to do something.

Understanding these two important symptoms will tell us a lot.And do not ask the question ahead of time, why the hell are the hyperactive ones doing nothing, and you can’t even entrust them with half the job, let alone one single thing. You will get answers literally in a paragraph below.

The regular mania of ADHD has little in common with the mania of a hardened schizophrenic who has been deciphering the reptilian conspiracy for ten years now using the numerological code of the headlines of the magazine “SAD. GARDEN”.
In fact, I use the term mania to refer to the hyperactive on a totally voluntary basis.It is very likely that, despite some similarities, the internal state of ADHD people is due to completely different factors. A huge number of teams are now involved in research into the causes of ADHD, but it is still very, very far from fully understanding the causes of the disorder. In short, abnormalities were found in seven areas of the brain: pallidum, thalamus, caudate nucleus, eggshell, nucleus accumbens, amygdala and hippocampus, add to this equation norepinephrine dysfunction of the reticular formation function, the problem of accelerated dopamine reuptake and it will become clear how complex character is this phenomenon.

Probably, I thickened the colors a little, and it may seem that ADHD is a sentence. And although, all other things being equal, our intellect is less developed than if we were brought up in the same way, but did not suffer from hyperkinetic disorder, we are not talking about serious mental retardation or even more imbecility. We are well aware of the importance of certain life tasks, the need to complete the coursework on time, to hand over the project on time. People generally tend to stall for time, do everything at the last moment, and perfectionism is not so common.It’s just that as the deadline approaches or the time for completing a task, stimulating signals increase in healthy people, while our amygdala apparently does not carry out the necessary regulation of emotions, but the nucleus accumbens, the work of which is probably connected with motivation through its role in the system rewards also appear to be junk. Emotions are the driving signals for Homo. In healthy, intellectually developed people, logical decisions trigger an emotional cascade that prompts them to perform a deliberate action.ADHD introduces spurious signals that are incredibly difficult to counter.

Although almost all hyperactivity compensation techniques explicitly prescribe no multitasking, most ADHD people are confident in their super multitasking, thanks to the ability to instantly switch. But the truth is, we’re not just not multitasking, we’re painfully single-tasked. Instead of a ranked system – one powerful impulse. Most often we do what we want most at the moment.But enough descriptions. Let’s move on to examples and their analysis.

Case No. 1. Evening, night, morning

A business meeting is scheduled for the morning. I will need to present our product to a potential client. A virtual tour of his company for virtual reality glasses, which will be his killerfitches at trade shows, as well as a tool for his sales managers on the road. To prepare myself, I do a quick googling in the evening. In general, I have an abstract picture in my head.Now logic prompts us to make a thesis summary, fix the most problematic points and prepare formulations on how VR can visualize this or that moment, and ideally already prepare an example of a specific artistic solution for this part. Maybe in the course of a conversation it will become clear that it is not relevant, but it is better when there are blanks. But I google it, I figured out something, and together with the plan and go to bed to be fresh, I do the opposite. Consciousness marks the task as if it were partially done, and my brain immediately begins to occupy the plot of a short VR movie about a personalized AI, friend and assistant, which is a digital, personalized extension of the user.The script has been ready for a long time, and the main character is a girl. All commercial projects serve one purpose – to get, to earn money for this film. Recently, I have been ripening a little revision, which introduces the second main character – a young man. Moreover, in mind there is a familiar young actor who is very suitable in type. He’s quite talented, but also from a very wealthy family. Probably if he is interested in the role, then he will not even have to turn to his dad.By his standards, the film’s budget is pocket money. I would not agree to invite a mediocre bastard to the project, who would cheat him with his game, for any money. As well as breaking the structure of the script for a type that is not appropriate here. That is why the original plan is to make money and finance ourselves. But here it all fits together. The truth is that the actor is theatrical and it is not a fact that he will be interested in participating in a VR film, that he will like the role, or will like it enough to invest his own money in the project. But this thought becomes manic for me.During the night, I do several approaches to the text of the script, but some shit comes out. Reshaping the finished story is a fairly detailed job that requires a calm and thoughtful approach. But I’m nervous. I cannot sleep and I cannot write. As a result, I smoke all night and just think about how cool it would be if it worked out. Morning. I am completely sleepy. Our director comes. She goes to this meeting with me. Begins to collect the equipment she needs. He does it for a long time and in detail. Then he pours coffee and lights a cigarette.Now I am tempted to leave. There are traffic jams in the city! I start to adjust it. In five minutes I turn a calm girl into a Persian cat rubbed with an ebony club. As a result, I grab a briefcase with glasses and run out into the street. Warm up the car. I remember that Samsung is not charged. I go upstairs, somewhere there must be at least one charged power bank. I find him, and we, together with the director, go down to the car. She asks if I got a soft optics wipe? I turn around, go back to the studio.Because I also forgot the hygienic masks under the glasses. There are two neodymium magnets on the table near the exit, which someone pushed off the iron surface and they stuck together. If I were sleepy, less stressed, I would have been able to suppress the parasitic impulse by logic. But I’m extremely emaciated, stressed out, and just don’t notice that the impulsive urge to split the magnets is out of place right now. There is not enough strength to pull them apart. I go to the kitchen and grab a knife to wedge the blade between them. Large knife is not included. I take a thin one, with a sharp, sloppy movement, stick it between the magnets, break the blade and seat my hand.Begins to gush blood. A clear understanding reaches me: “What magnets are there! Fuck, I just took them! ” But now I have to stop the bleeding. Everything I have ever taken, I do not return to the place. Therefore, I cannot find alcohol and cotton wool, with which I rubbed something last time and threw it in an unknown place. I rush around the studio, pouring blood on everything. We need to get out. I unwind the toilet paper and tape it to my palm. I go out and get into the car.

Analysis: So, at the level of logic, I knew from the very beginning how to do the right thing.But in response to a quick googling, manic self-confidence sent an emotional response – everything is clear, and I can handle it that way. The script has been troubling me for a long time, and I easily succumbed to a powerful impulse, turning my attention to it. At the same time, being tired and cocked, I still could not sit down for processing it. I know very well that nothing efficient comes out of such attacks. Instead of engaging myself in mechanical work, which would probably calm me down (though maybe not), I wandered around the kitchen with a cigarette, spinning like a spinner, the thought of whether my familiar actor would like the role or not.Thinking about this until the script is rewritten and the role is not clear, but only appears in separate scenes from the depths of consciousness, is absolutely meaningless. But the impulsive desire to juggle with the mirages of the imagination completely supplanted the task of wiping the optics, charging Samsung, checking everything you need. Logic sent signals about aimless pastime, but in response, I received an emotional signal to try again to sit down at the text. And so a few laps. By morning, the exhausted brain had already lost all chances of logical actions, and I was already completely at the mercy of impulses that were little connected by a single task, among which there was a completely parasitic one – to separate the magnets.Impatience and thoughtlessness of actions ended in minor trauma. The lack of the habit of putting everything in its place and throwing it immediately right where it was used made the situation worse.

Case 2. Car

Research shows that people with ADHD are more likely to be injured and have more frequent accidents. Both serious and small. Serious accidents are associated with dangerous driving, overestimation of one’s capabilities, and poor forecasting of the traffic situation. Small ones are associated with distraction in traffic jams on the phone, social networks, people passing by.There have been many dangerous situations in my career. I crashed the first car on the second day, having got into a serious accident on a wet road. In my first two years of driving, I was in at least six times situations that could be fatal. Now I try not to drive unnecessarily. I am not afraid of serious accidents, because I have completely ruled out dangerous driving. But in traffic jams I often get distracted and slow down in the last centimeters. In traffic, I can lose my focus. Therefore, I avoid them in every possible way.During evening or regular city driving, I keep myself busy with the game – “super smooth driving for fuel economy”. I have to pay attention to the traffic lights ahead, slow down as often as possible in advance, and ideally roll under the green. And the economizer should never leave the green zone. This simple game helps me keep my focus on the road.

Analysis: I have developed a ritual of play that helps me to keep the traffic in focus. But if I get stuck in a traffic jam, it is a potential micro-accident every time.However, I avoid rush hours, and on the rare occasions when congestion catches me by surprise, the risks are not fatal.

Case 3. Drift and squirrel in the wheel.
We are visiting, in the car of my friend N. I am in the front right seat, my wife is behind me. He’s even more hyperactive than me. We are going for a walk along the Ashkelon waterfront. Suddenly he turns into the marina, drowns the gas and begins a frantic drift between the posts counterclockwise. It seems like a cool joke to him.The hyperactive often, succumbing to the impulse, commit stupid, rash acts. He may not drive badly, but even if Michael Schumacher was behind the wheel, I would rather be outside. Anyone can make a mistake, and even an ADHD person can make a mistake. I myself do not feel fear for myself, but I know that if he does not cope with the control, then the blow will most likely be in the rear right door, where my wife is sitting. At the request to stop, he only gives gas. He’s a great friend and a good person, he just finds it fun.At this point, he is not aware of the risks. I know those who are hyperactive, and I know that sometimes I myself can not think about it, it’s unsuccessful to joke, so I immediately turn to op with good obscenities, pull out the handbrake and threaten to take out the windshield with my foot if it does not stop immediately.

He works as a contractor for the assembly of hotel furniture, the installation of headsets in nursing homes and social housing. Unlike me, he is very sociable and constantly overloaded with orders. Several foremen with their teams work for him.However, his personnel choice always fails him. Its activities are profitable and large enough to completely surrender to its regulation. But in parallel, he mines the crypt, and resells lots for ebay. The crypto is unlikely to pay off the electricity, the resale of lots on ebay distracts his attention. He is inattentive when signing contracts, his brigade leaders regularly fumble without proper supervision. When the next deadline is for the *** n, he grabs the puncher and alone can close three or four days of the work team in five hours.The poor quality of his high-frequency drilling would be conspicuous if his teams were not themselves crooked drug addicts. His “today” consists of clearing up that fakap that happened yesterday, which was supposed to settle with the fakap that was the day before yesterday. I love him. Therefore, even in the most difficult times for me, when he called me to give up everything and come to him as a foreman, he repeated the same advice to him: get rid and fire everyone who with their speech, movements, manner of walking back and forth during a conversation reminds me …

This concludes the first part. There is no point in describing more common procrastination cases. From the above, the mechanism is quite clear.
To summarize: the emotional signaling apparatus has been disrupted. Logical decisions do not generate incentive signals to the emotional apparatus. Attention is narrowed down to a single object or thought, and powerful impulses throw it from one to another almost uncontrollably.

Announcement without specifying exact terms:

In the near future I will try to contact Leonid Semenovich Chutko, MD, the only specialist in St. Petersburg, in whose monographs I found works on ADHD in adults.If someone in the comments or in a personal throws off more relevant contacts – I will be very grateful.

I also plan to contact the guys from the Bekhterev Institute, if I succeed, I will interview Makarov Igor Vladimirovich, he is the scientific director of the 4th department of child psychiatry. I do not name the timeframe. But I will try not to delay it.

Therefore, for those who are relevant, leave questions in the comments, but better in a personal.

Besides this question: I have not tried Strattera, which is allowed in Russia, yet.According to the description – wild rubbish, driving up, mainly, norepinephrine. But in any case, I will try her action. With her, my list will be complete. In Israel, I was prescribed Ritalin, I changed it to Adderall, which seemed less evil to me. In Russia, I have tried almost the entire spectrum of nootropics, the effectiveness of which fluctuates around 0. The pharmacological reaction is an exclusively individual matter, but if this is relevant to someone, then I will write a report on pharmaceuticals with subjective assessments.

And yes, naturally ADHD has a wide spectrum – from almost imperceptible to my extreme case, when the ADHD meter needle is stuck in the red zone and tries to give another turn, trying to curl up in a spiral.Most of the cases lie somewhere in the middle zone, manifested only by implicit impulsivity, absent-mindedness, problems of long concentration on the task.

Tania – one stupid old Jewish book published in the late eighteenth century and containing an incredible amount of nonsense, even from the point of view of the time says: “The brain rules over the heart.” Apparently the Rebbe wanted to say that the mind rules over emotions. This is a misconception. However, what to expect from the ministers of any religious cult ?! The reality is that mind and emotions are a two-way channel of communication, where emotions are an integral part of the governing apparatus.However, there is still something true in this statement. Having reason leaves hope that emotions can be repaired. It’s just that sometimes this task is more difficult than it seems.

And you, of course, remember that it seems to me that I am a Guru. It shouldn’t seem so to you. I try to be attentive, but I can always blast off nonsense. Therefore, it is wrong to ask me: how to be and what to do. Correct – to correctly describe the problem and formulate the question that I will include in the interview. But if suspicions are serious, do not wait for the weather by the sea, but act urgently.Especially when it comes to children.

What are the uses of melatonin for ADHD?

One of the main reasons for using melatonin for ADHD is that people with this disorder often complain of insomnia. Melatonin is generally responsible for regulating sleep, and people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have low levels of this hormone. Thus, doctors often suggest melatonin to treat ADHD, especially because increased sleep can help reduce symptoms of the disorder, such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity.In addition, melatonin supplements can help combat the insomnia that many medications designed to treat ADHD can cause, possibly making it less likely that people with this disorder will stop using their prescribed medications due to inability to sleep.

Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body as it is produced by the pineal gland. Its production is usually affected by the amount of darkness and light that the body sees, as darkness enhances the action of this hormone in the pineal gland.It can regulate sleep patterns and even control the body’s circadian rhythm, and more can reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, increase hours of sleep, and improve wakefulness throughout the day. Since research has shown that some of those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) do not have adequate levels of this hormone, it should come as no surprise that melatonin supplementation for ADHD is fairly common.

Most of the drugs prescribed for this disorder are stimulants, often causing insomnia, anxiety, and even heart palpitations, making it difficult for some to rest or sleep.Of course, ADHD by itself also often leads to insomnia, which means that even those who don’t take medication are likely to suffer from the problem. Taking melatonin to treat ADHD about an hour before bed can solve the problem of insomnia, and many people prefer this route over sleeping pills because melatonin is natural, available over the counter, and is not addictive. The only side effect many people experience with this supplement is sleepiness, which is often a welcome change from the hyperactivity and anxiety that many people with ADHD suffer from.

Although the use of melatonin for ADHD is not intended to reduce the underlying symptoms of the disorder, it often happens indirectly. This is because getting enough sleep can often combat hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention, which are the main symptoms associated with this disorder. For this reason, many people take melatonin for ADHD along with their regular medications to both treat their disorder and improve their ability to sleep.

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Active substance CITICOLIN (CITICOLINUM) | Directory of medicines Compendium

MeSH: cytidine diphosphate choline.
RTECS: choline 5′-cytidine diphosphate

M _m = 488.324 Da.log P (octanol-water) = –6.940.

Method of production: p / o tablets, oral solution, injection solution.

Medicines containing the active substance CITICOLIN

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

psychostimulants, drugs used in attention and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and nootropic drugs

citicoline stimulates the biosynthesis of structural phospholipids of neuronal membranes, which improves membrane function, including the functioning of ion-exchange pumps and neuroreceptors.Due to the stabilizing effect on the membrane, citicoline has anti-edema properties and reduces cerebral edema. Citicoline reduces the severity of symptoms of cerebral dysfunction after pathological processes such as traumatic brain injury or acute cerebrovascular accident. Citicoline reduces the level of amnesia, improves the condition with cognitive, sensory and movement disorders, and also reduces the severity of symptoms that are observed during hypoxia and cerebral ischemia, including memory impairment, emotional lability, impaired ability to perform normal self-care activities.

Citicoline is a natural compound found in the human body, therefore, classical pharmacokinetic studies cannot be carried out due to the complexity of the quantitative determination of exogenous and endogenous citicoline. In the course of a pharmacokinetic study, almost complete absorption of in the gastrointestinal tract was determined – less than 1% of the dose taken was detected in the feces within 5 days after taking the drug. Also, 2 peaks of radioactivity in blood plasma were noted, due to metabolism in the liver and intestines: the first – after 1 hour, the second – after 24 hours.

Bioavailability for oral and parenteral routes of administration is practically the same. Excretion is very slow, mainly through the respiratory system and with urine. After 5 days of administration, about 16% of the drug dose was detected, which indicates the inclusion of the rest of the dose in metabolic processes.

stroke in the acute phase and its neurological consequences; traumatic brain injury and its neurological complications; cognitive and behavioral impairments due to chronic vascular and degenerative cerebral disorders.

tablets and oral solution . Adults: the recommended dose is 500-2000 mg / day, depending on the severity of the patient’s condition. The daily dose is divided into 2-3 doses. The duration of the course of treatment depends on the severity of the brain damage. The minimum recommended treatment period is 45 days.

Injection solution . The drug is used for intravenous or intramuscular injection, intravenous administration is prescribed in the form of a slow injection (for 3-5 minutes, depending on the prescribed dose) or intravenous drip (40-60 drops per minute).The recommended dose for adults is 500-2000 mg / day, depending on the severity of the patient’s condition. The maximum daily dose is 2000 mg.

In acute and urgent conditions, the maximum therapeutic effect is achieved with the use of the drug in the first 24 hours.

The recommended treatment period, at which the maximum therapeutic effect is noted, is 12 weeks. If necessary, treatment is continued with the drug in the form of tablets or oral solution.

hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.Increased tone of the parasympathetic nervous system.

in isolated cases, citicoline can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, as well as have a short-term hypotensive effect.

Long-term use of citicoline was not accompanied by toxic effects, regardless of the method of administration of the drug.

there is no age limit for oral administration of the drug.

Although there is no evidence of risk to the fetus when using the drug, during pregnancy it is used only when the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk.There are no data on the intake of citicoline in breast milk, its effect on the fetus is unknown.

Citicoline does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and work with complex mechanisms.

citicoline enhances the effect of levodopa. The drug should not be administered concurrently with drugs containing meclofenoxate.

cases have not been described, given the low toxicity of the drug even when therapeutic doses are exceeded.

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