Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD) and its Treatment
The state of Illinois allows Dr. Wegierek to prescribe non-stimulants for this disorder. There are other medications besides stimulants that can be prescribed to enhance attention. Before she decides to prescribe any medication for ADHD, she will recommend a completion of a neuropsychological evaluation first.
If testing reveals that the patient is struggling with true ADHD, she will discuss with the patient the use of non-stimulant medication for this disorder. If the patient does not respond well to a non-stimulant, other options for treatment of this disorder will be discussed with the primary care physician and/or another psychiatric provider.
How ADHD medication works
Since the inattention usually represents a chronic brain condition that affects the structure and function of the brain, the medication impacts networks, neurotransmitters, and structures in our brain so that individuals can pay attention.
Types of medications
Stimulants are the most common type of medication prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Although they are considered the first-line therapy for ADHD, there are other medications that help with inattention such as non-stimulants and antidepressants. Common side effects of stimulant use include headaches, upset stomach, higher blood pressure, less appetite, weight loss, nervousness, insomnia, and tics.
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