Medications can help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity in people diagnosed with attention deficit disorder (ADD), which is also termed as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medically.
Many medications for ADD / ADHD may result to adverse side effects but luckily they aren't the only treatment choice for ADHD.
Scientific evidence shows that behavioral therapy, healthy eating, exercise, sleep, and making smart decisions in lifestyle and everyday living can help an adult or a child to effectively deal with the symptoms of ADHD.
If you are a parent or the patient themselves, it is important to know the facts about ADHD medications, so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you or your child.
Decision-making for the choice of ADHD medication can be hard, but help can be obtained by doing some research and investigation.
The first step to do is to completely understand what these drugs for ADD and ADHD can and can not do.
ADHD drugs may improve the person's ability to concentrate, control impulses, plan, and follow through tasks.
But this is not a magic pill that will solve all your problems or your child's.
Even when the ADHD medication is working, ADD / ADHD diagnosed individuals may still struggle with being forgetful, emotionally instable, and awkward socially.
For adults with ADHD, being disorganized, distracted, and having relationship problems can be common.
That is why it is so important for changes in lifestyle, which are exercise in regular basis, healthy dietary patterns and adequate sleep hygiene.
Medication does not cure ADD or ADHD.
It can help relieve symptoms when taken, but when the medication regimen runs out, these ADHD symptoms will return.
In addition, ADD or ADHD medications work better for some than for other individuals.
Some people experience a clear improvement, while others diagnosed with ADHD experience relief of symptoms in moderation only.
Because each individual reacts differently and unpredictably, drugs for ADHD must always be tailored to individual needs and follow a doctor's prescription.
When the drugs for ADD or ADHD are less closely monitored, it can not be as effective and can be more risky.
The most common medications for ADHD are stimulants.
They have the longest record in dealing with ADHD, and most research support their effectiveness.
Stimulant class of ADHD drugs includes common medications like Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexedrine - widely known for ADHD.
Even when armed with all needed facts, the decision to undergo with ADD or ADHD medication therapy is not always easy.
If you are not sure, do not rush your decision.
Take time to evaluate choices - pros and cons.
And if the drug is for a child, make sure to get their input in your decision making.
Above all, trust your gut feelings and do what you feel is right.
Do not let anyone, whether your doctor or the principal of your child, pressure you to go for ADHD medication, unless you feel comfortable with it or willing to take that step.
Remember, a drug is not the only treatment choice for ADHD.