types of meds

[NotAChevy]

A buddy of mine is reeling with the recent diagnosis of his teenage daughter with ADHD and OCD. He admits he really doesn't know anything about it, and has been reading everything he can find.

So, I've decided I'd like to do a quick note on the 2 basic types of meds for ADHD, how they help, and any side effects. He’s also reading what we write, and I'd like to simplify some of the jargon used, for others here who may have recently been recently diagnosed.

I'll start with this disclosure: I'm not a medical professional, anything I add here is solely my understanding as an adult with ADHD. You need to talk to a medical professional, trained in helping someone with ADHD, before starting any medication.

The two main types of medications used for ADHD are:

1. Stimulant medications:

- Benefits:

- Improves focus and attention.

- Reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity.

- Can provide immediate relief.

- Pitfalls:

- May cause side effects such as decreased appetite, insomnia, and irritability.

- Potential for misuse or addiction.

- Effectiveness may vary from person to person.

2. Non-stimulant medications:

- Benefits:

- Provides long-lasting symptom relief.

- Does not carry the risk of misuse or addiction.

- May be a suitable alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate stimulant medications.

- Pitfalls:

- Takes longer to take effect compared to stimulant medications.

- May cause side effects such as upset stomach, dizziness, or headaches.

- Effectiveness may vary from person to person.

[STEM_Dad]

Excellent, simple explanation!

This gets the basic info about ADHD medications across in a very clear, straightforward manner.

(From there, of course, it gets more complicated.)

[NotAChevy in reply to STEM_Dad]

Trying to get the basics across to those recently diagnosed without freaking them out with all the terminology..

[STEM_Dad in reply to NotAChevy]

I totally understand.

I'll mind myself and try not to interject again, since I'm aware of my tendency to give too much information.

😉

[NotAChevy in reply to STEM_Dad]

No! Please do

[STEM_Dad in reply to NotAChevy]

I appreciate you saying so.

Well then, I'll do my best to honor your intent, and leave out the jargon and excess details that might be overwhelming.

[NotAChevy in reply to STEM_Dad]

I'd never say that. My intent is go back and simplify some of the jargon used by others. But, others of us need the more nuanced explainations (jargon filled) to help us.