Types of ADHD Medication
The most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. These medications boost the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine within 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 because they provide medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. They work quickly and reduce ADHD symptoms in 70-80% of the children who use them. They increase brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. adhd medication list improves focus and reduces fatigue. Methylphenidate is an stimulant that is widely used to treat ADHD. It is available in chewable or liquid tablet form and can be taken up to three times per every day. Amphetamines can be prescribed for ADHD. They are a little stronger than methylphenidates. These medications can temporarily increase the heart rate and blood pressure. People with preexisting conditions are advised to tell their doctor if they suffer from any of these ailments.
If the stimulant medicine is misused (e.g. taking them in more than the prescribed dosage, or combined with alcohol or other drugs) they can lead to addiction. Individuals who use the medications as directed, however, are not at an increased risk of developing addiction. There is evidence that suggests ADHD medication may even aid those at risk of using substances to avoid addiction.
The FDA 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 the medication that is best for you or your child.
Your doctor will begin with a small dose and examine how your child or you react before making adjustments to the dosage. Your doctor will then determine if it is necessary to add a second medication or switch to a different one.
Stimulants can have side effects like dry mouth, decreased appetite, and changes in sleep or mood. Children and teens who take stimulants experience tics. These are sudden movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. non stimulant adhd medication have shown that stimulants can cause a slight decrease in height for some children and teenagers.
Non-stimulant drugs are slower to take effect than stimulants but can still improve attention. It could take up to four weeks to show a noticeable improvement. non stimulant adhd medication -stimulant medication can reduce depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems in certain people. They are typically prescribed in conjunction with stimulant medication to treat ADHD.
Antidepressants can also be beneficial in treating ADHD. They alter the levels of serotonin within the brain. Certain, like selective serotonin retake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been shown to increase impulsivity and focus for people suffering from ADHD.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications are rare and hard to come by. Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD in addition to or instead of stimulants if the side effects are too much for you. Certain adults suffering from ADHD might also benefit from antidepressants as they improve memory and reduce impulsivity as well as 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 usually prescribed in conjunction with stimulants, and may be more effective than stimulants alone.