Best Medication For ADHD
Most children and teenagers who take ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and more focused with their school work. Some may experience a slight slowdown in growth and may experience an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these drugs.
There are a variety of medicines such as tablets, liquids patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most common stimulant. It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. These drugs help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters in the brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often referred to by the term "secretary of the brain" because it assists in the planning and organizing abilities.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times per throughout the day. These include methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, but they both function in similarly in improving focus and attention. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release formulations. They are a good option because they last up to 12 hours, and are usually taken once per day. Some of these medicines are powders that is mixed with liquid to create drinks, while others are pills.
It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will watch how you react to different types of medications and will adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medications should be done as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that will include a combination of behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to kick in however they can make you feel more in control and boost your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the as stimulants do, and therefore can be safer to use over longer periods of time. These medications can also have less side effects such as constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. Strattera is the first medication that was approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of selective reuptake. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine. These are both drugs within this category.
There are also medication adhd adults -stimulant antidepressants that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications within the tricyclic antidepressant group, such as Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many side effects.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These drugs don't have an immediate impact but they may help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. They're in a different category than the other options, and they can cause some adverse effects, such as headaches or shaky hands. medication for add in adults might also suggest an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects like hearing loss or changes in vision.