Best Medication For ADHD
The majority of children and teens who take ADHD medication notice they focus better and are less impulsive. They also feel calmer and more focused with their school work. Some people may experience a slight slowing of their growth or a rise in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these medications.
There are many different types of medications, including tablets, liquids patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine dextroamphetamine and extended-release amphetamine salts.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. These drugs help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is sometimes called the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in the planning and organizing skills.
Stimulants are available in both short-acting as well as long-acting dosages. The short-acting medications have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken three or twice times a day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, however they all work in the same way in improving attention and focus. Certain stimulant medications are available in extended-release formulations. They are the best choice since they last from 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken every day. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to make drinks, while others are pills.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will watch how you respond to the various types of medications and will alter the dosage as required. The use of medicines should be part of a complete treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to begin working however they can help you feel more in control and boost your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in like stimulants do. They are therefore able to be used for a longer time. They also have less adverse negative effects like constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. Strattera is the first of these drugs that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of the selective reuptake of norepinephrine. Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medications in this class.
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant family like Tofranil (imipramine). These drugs are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or if they cause too many side effects.
Viloxazine or Atomoxetine may be prescribed by your physician. adhd and depression medication don't have immediate effects however they can reduce impulsivity and improve concentration over time. They're in a distinct drug category than the other options, and they can cause some side effects such as headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor may also recommend the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but usually not serious side effects, such as the ringing of your ears or changes in your vision.