Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain, which increases concentration and helps in controlling impulsive behaviour.
They are available as tablets or patches (lisdexamfetamine). Long-acting stimulant products are the best choice, as they deliver medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They are quick-acting and reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 to 80 percent of children who take them. They work by increasing the levels of brain chemicals, called dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and decreases fatigue. Methylphenidate (also called methylphenidate, Ritalin, and Focalin) is a very popular stimulant used for ADHD. It is available in chewable tablets and liquid forms, and it can be taken two to three times a every day. Amphetamines, which are a bit stronger than methylphenidates are also sometimes prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications can temporarily raise the heart rate and blood pressure. People with preexisting health conditions are advised to consult their doctor if they have any of these conditions.
If stimulant medications are misused (e.g., taken in excess of the prescribed dose, or mixed with alcohol or other substances), they can cause addiction. Patients who take the medications as directed however, do not face an increased risk of addiction. There is some evidence that using ADHD medication can even help prevent substance abuse in people who are at risk.
most effective adhd medication for adults has approved a variety of stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They are typically available in generic form, meaning that the chemical formulation is identical to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe which medication works best for your child or you.
Your doctor will begin with a low dose and watch how you or your child responds before altering the dosage. Then your doctor will determine whether you should change to a different medication or add a different one.
The stimulants can cause side effects such as dry mouth, a decrease in appetite and changes in moods or sleep patterns. managing adhd without medication and children who are taking stimulants experience tics. These are sudden movements or sounds like eye blinks or throat clearing. Certain studies suggest that the use of stimulants may cause a slight decrease in height for certain children and adolescents.
Non-stimulant medicines are less effective than stimulants, however they can help increase impulsivity and attention. It could take up to four weeks for the medication to start working. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems in certain people. They are usually used in conjunction with stimulant medications for ADHD.
Antidepressants are also effective in treating ADHD. They alter the levels of serotonin in the brain. Certain like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) -- have been shown to improve focus and impulsivity in people suffering from ADHD.
There aren't a lot of non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved to treat ADHD. Your doctor might prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD in addition or instead of stimulants if the adverse effects are too severe for you. Certain adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from antidepressants, because they enhance memory and decrease impulsivity and aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are prescribed in conjunction with stimulants and may be more effective than stimulants alone.