Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has continued to become a controversy among scientists and parents of ADHD patients alike due to the fact that despite many advances made on technology, the main cause behind the disorder still remains unknown. Advances on ADHD drugs have also been made but so far, none of these drugs have yet been proven to get rid of the disorder effectively although some drugs have been used to relieve ADHD symptoms. However, ADHD drugs are also known to bring along a variety side effects on the patients taking them – some mild while some are truly alarming.
As more and more reports on the side effects of ADHD drugs on patients reach the public ears, parents and relatives of ADHD patients normally ask this question: Are ADHD meds safe?
Most ADHD specialists agree that ADHD meds are effective and safe when they are used under the doctor’s close supervision. In fact, ADHD drugs have been shown to be effective in helping teens with ADHD in some areas, such as reducing injuries and automobile accidents, and reducing smoking and substance abuse, which in turn lead to better relationships inside and outside of the home. However, any misuse or abuse of the ADHD drugs, especially the stimulants, can cause health problems. That is why following the advice of the doctor on the right dosage is necessary.
Side effects may vary according to the patient and the ADHD meds that are being taken. If the patient is taking stimulants and is using these ADHD drugs long term and in high doses, the likely side effects are tremors or uncontrolled shaking, paranoia, increased heart rate and blood pressure, delusions, hallucinations, irregular breathing, mood changes, and confusion.
Aside from stimulants, other ADHD drugs can also cause dangerous side effects when taken in large doses. Side effects that may result from overdosing on ADHD meds can include extreme high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, sweating, dry mouth and eyes, vomiting, seizures, and uncontrolled movements and severe twitching. In addition, some of these medications can also become addictive when they are abused. Because of this, it is highly prohibited to share ADHD drugs with other people.
The prescription of ADHD drugs are only a part of the treatment plan of doctors. Doctors may include other means of treatment in their treatment plan such putting the ADHD patient under therapy (which may not at all work in most ADHD patients) and making adjustments in school and classes.
Alternative treatments can be used in the treatment of ADHD if parents are wary of giving their children ADHD drugs because of the known side effects. There are natural remedies that can be given to ADHD patients. These natural remedies may be effective and are free of any side effects. But parents should consult the doctor first before giving their child any alternative treatment. The doctor’s advice is very important and parents should take them to heart. Doctors and parents should work closely together to effectively help the child with ADHD.
Jennifer Kaplan has written several articles on ADHD and ADHD alternative treatments. On some of her articles, she has discussed the benefits that ADHD patients can get from ADHD alternative treatment.
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