Tips for Using ADHD Meds

ADHD meds are not miracle drugs that instantly help a person to get rid of all ADHD symptoms. There can be side effects or the meds may not work properly. It can take time to find the right levels and types of meds to use to bring about good results. The following are five tips on how to best work with the doctor to get the most from ADHD meds.

Tip #1: Find a Good Doctor

You need to find a doctor who is willing to monitor the medication and your child on a regular basis. You may need to find a doctor who specializes in treating ADHD or other mental health disorders so you can ensure that the treatment given is appropriate and that you find the right type of treatment or ADHD meds.

Tip #2: Start with lowest does and adjust as needed.

ADHD meds are prescribed in doses that are not based upon age or weight. These meds are simply used as needed. A good doctor will start out at the lowest dose possible and then adjust it up if needed. Doctors will usually allow three to seven days to elapse between adjusting doses.

The reason for giving the lowest possible dose is that side effects get more common and more severe with increased doses. Plus there is no need to over medicate as this can often lead to a zombie-like state that is one of the top reasons parents top giving their child the medication.

Tip #3: Use the medication every day, consistently.

Some parents want to give their child the ADHD meds only during the week and then do not give it to them on the weekend. This type of dosing will not give accurate results.

It used to be common for doctors to recommend parents do this, but new research suggests that not giving the medication consistently can cause the medication to not work as efficiently. It can also lead to problems with getting the child to take the meds or resent going to school because they have to take the meds.

Tip #4: Involve everyone is watching for side effects and other effects of the meds.

Most children are diagnosed with ADHD due to combined efforts of teachers, doctors and parent. It only makes sense to medicate as a group effort. Everyone should watch for how the medication effects the child. Having teachers, doctors and parents on the lookout can greatly improve the chances of ensuring the right meds are found and used.

Tip #5: Understand the effects of diet on ADHD meds.

Some meds given for ADHD can be greatly effected by what your child eats. High fat diets can lessen the effectiveness of medications like Adderall or Ritalin. Drinking acidic drinks or drinks with a lot of Vitamin C can cause Ritalin to not be absorbed into the body properly. You should also watch other medications for possible interactions.

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Tips for Using ADHD Meds

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