Attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are labels referring to the same mental health disorder. ADD is an older clinical term and ADHD is the current clinical term used in the diagnosis of the disorder. Medication is often used in the treatment of ADHD and the effectiveness can vary from person to person.
Basics
Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are thought to increase the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in a person's brain. These neurotransmitters help send messages between the brain's nerve cells. Nonstimulant medications affect the levels of other brain chemicals and produce a similar effect as stimulant medications.
Global Use
A study funded and reported by the National Institute of Mental Health found that while the United States is still the greatest consumer of ADHD medications, use of these medications around the world tripled between 1993 and 2003. The use of stimulant and nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD is no longer limited to the United States.
Efficacy
ADHD medications effect people differently. For some, the medication eliminates their ADHD symptoms entirely, while others may experience only a small reduction or none at all.
ADHD medication can improve a person's ability to concentrate and focus, while reducing hyperactivity. These changes can lead to improvements in school or job performance and in relationships. Success in these areas will improve the person's overall sense of well-being and motivation to achieve.
Types
Two classifications of drugs are generally used in the treatment of ADHD: stimulants and nonstimulants. Stimulant medications include methylphenidate such as Ritalin, dextroamphetamine-amphetamine such as Adderall, dextroamphetamine such as Dexedrine and lisdexamfetamine such as Vyvanse.
Nonstimulant medications used in treatment of ADHD include atomoxetine such as Strattera and antidepressants.
Precautions
It is important to weigh the risks of ADHD medications before treatment begins. Stimulant medications have been know to induce heart failure in people with undiagnosed susceptible heart conditions. With nonstimulant medications it is important to be cautious about the increased risk for suicidal thoughts among children and adolescents.
ADHD medications should not be relied upon for a quick or long-term cure for the disorder. ADHD medications are only able to reduce the symptoms of the disorder while the person is taking the medication. This may result in an unwanted lifetime prescription for ADHD medications. To avoid this, people should focus on behavioral and social therapeutic intervention that help them learn how to control and reduce their symptoms, thus decreasing their dependence on medication.
