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Medication For ADHD – What Are the Side Effects? Many people with ADHD notice a decrease in symptoms when they take medication. Every person's reaction is different, and the side effects can be problematic. Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical in the brain that regulates the behavior and focus. Stimulant medication Stimulants improve attention and concentration in 70% to 80percent of adults and children who take them. They affect the activity of neurotransmitters that are essential in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. They usually trigger an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts several hours. Many experts suggest that you begin with a low dose and gradually increase the dosage over several weeks. Stimulant medication is consumed orally, typically once or twice a day. There are short-acting and long-acting versions of many stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and should be taken 3 times a day; long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once every day. These medications can trigger unwanted side effects such as anxiety, insomnia and nausea. Some people can become angry or moody. However these effects tend to diminish over time and can be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some cases stimulants can trigger changes in personality, like being withdrawn, unfocused or becoming more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other mental health issues, such as depression and mania. The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. Adults and adolescents use them to enhance performance. They may become addicted when they aren't taken in the correct manner or as directed. Because of the risks, doctors are very cautious in assessing the need for stimulant drugs and to monitor dosage and adverse effects closely. Non-stimulant medications There are many non-stimulant ADHD treatments that are available, and the one that is most effective is dependent on the individual. These medications do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants have fewer negative effects, but take longer to act and last only for 24 hours. The majority of these drugs work by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. This includes antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor. Psychotherapy Talk therapy can help the patient how to deal with their symptoms, and also develop new coping strategies, like managing stress or controlling impulsivity. I Am Psychiatry is a service that offers therapy online, matches people to licensed therapists who specialize in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. Get a free assessment and get matched with a therapist in less than 48 hours. The use of stimulants or non-stimulants can help those with ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability to focus, but they do not solve the root cause. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach someone methods to manage impulsive behavior and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These methods can be learned through an ADHD coach or through practice with a therapist who is trained. They can be taught to caregivers and parents to assist the child or adult with ADHD in these areas. In certain situations the combination of medications and talk therapy might be the best approach.