ADHD Medication Effects Although
the causes of ADHD [Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder] are yet
to be ascertained, the most common view is that an imbalance of the neurotransmitters
in the brain. The ADHD
individuals are generally hyperactive. But their brain activities are
slower at a time when they are expected to be faster. The same cortex inhibits those that are not useful in a given situation or at a particular part of time. In a child or adult with ADHD, the prefrontal cortex is underactive. As a result there is no proper prioritization or selection or inhibition of input. The net result is an accumulation of data bits that keep the mind and body unfocused .Stimulant medications wake up and allow the prefrontal cortex to perform traffic direction more efficiently. As per FDA
panel the heart risks are more in the patients who are on stimulants such
as Ritalin and similar medications. Hyperactive children or adults are regularly put on Ritalin and similar drugs that appear to produce excellent results on the disruptive and impulsive behaviors that are characteristic of ADHD. Many people feel that the benefits reaped in terms of academic achievement and social behavior warrant the possible risks. However, there are also many worries about the use of medications for ADHD. According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, the stimulants works on the neurotransmitter dopamine and in that respect resembles the characteristics of cocaine. Ritalin, like cocaine and methamphetamine, is classified as Schedule II substances by the federal government’s Controlled Substances Act. Many ADHD experts are of the opinion that medications should be used like casts are used to fix broken bones. The cast is put on as long as the bone heals. If the cast is not removed even after the healing of the fracture muscles around the bone atrophy and weaken. Hence children should use the medicines only until their symptoms of ADHD subside. The medications
should never be used as the exclusive treatment for ADHD. The medications
should be combined with behavior management, parenting skills, and classroom
accommodations.
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