Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive and calmer. They also get on with schoolwork. Some sufferers may experience a slowing of their growth or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these medications.
The medications are available in a variety of forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most common stimulant. It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts with extended-release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These medications improve focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is sometimes referred to by the term "secretary of the brain" because it assists in organizing and planning abilities.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken 2 or 3 times per day. These include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, however they all work in similarly in improving attention and focus. There are extended-release versions of some stimulant drugs. They are a better option since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken daily. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to make a beverage, while others are pills.
It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will observe how you react to various types of medications and will alter the dosage as required. The use of medicines should be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little bit longer to work but it can make you feel in control, improve your concentration and impulsivity and help you concentration. medications for adhd do not alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do. They are therefore able to be utilized for a longer period of time. They also have less side effects, such as constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera which is an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor may prescribe other medicines from this class such as guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant group, such as Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only suggest these drugs in cases where stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many side effects.
Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your doctor. These medications don't have a direct effect however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. They're in a different drug category than the other options, and they can cause some side effects such as headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor might also recommend the use of a small dose of an antidepressant, called bupropion (Wellbutrin) that is not a FDA-approved treatment for ADHD however it can help improve concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but usually not severe side effects, such as ringing in the ears or changes in vision.