Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a common neurodevelopmental condition that impacts all age groups. With symptoms that leave individuals restless and with an inability to focus, doctors often prescribe stimulants such as Adderall and other types of anxiety medication adults to help raise the number of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This is because these chemicals play a role in managing attention and mood.
Although many people have had positive experiences taking ADHD medications, it is important to consider the various pros and cons before starting any medication yourself.
May Improve Focus
When you first begin researching the pros of taking Adderall, one of them that people most often report is having improved focus. If you are currently struggling to start or complete tasks at school or work, this may be a benefit of Adderall that is especially appealing to you. When reading about alternative medications to stimulants via information such as Thesis reviews ADHD, better focus is also a major concern for individuals. As such, this is one pro that you definitely want to bring up with your doctor and discuss the types of outcomes his or her patients commonly report.
Works In the Short Term
Although individual experiences vary, another pro about medication like Adderall is that it can provide benefits in the short-term. For other individuals, long-term use may also be beneficial, but again, this is something that you need to discuss with your doctor before making a final decision.
Some other short-term positives of taking Adderall include:
- Improved ability to listen
- Increased alertness
- Improved mood
Doing some of your own research can also be helpful. Keep in mind, stimulants can be addicting, so consider the pros and cons of long-term use.
Downsides To Consider
Although many people report positive experiences with Adderall and similar stimulants, there are also downsides to consider. As with any medication, there is always the possibility of negative side effects. With long-term use, the chances of experiencing negative side effects increase.
Some cons of taking Adderall include:
- Possibility of addiction
- Heart and cardiovascular system damage
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
- Hair loss
While these downsides may be alarming, most medications come with a long list of possible negative side effects; however, the possibility of them occurring is real enough to warrant an open and honest conversation with your medical provider. If you have a family history of these conditions or you begin experiencing any of these effects yourself, there are also alternative medications other than stimulants to consider such as nootropics. Depending on your health and preferences, it may be better to start with these natural and synthetic options.
Having ADHD can present numerous challenges to daily life, especially in academic and professional settings. With that said, there are solutions available to help you or your loved ones manage symptoms. Before deciding to take a common medication such as Adderall, be sure to carefully consider the different pros and cons of doing so. Let this article be a starting point for your next conversation with your doctor.