Types of ADHD Medication
There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. It may take time to find one that works well for you or your child.
Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate or Ritalin help to reduce symptoms by increasing the levels of a certain chemical in the brain. Some people who take these drugs experience a sudden reduction in energy levels and an "crash" after the drug wears off.
Short-acting
The use of medications to control behavior can be beneficial to children with ADHD. These medications can help children learn to complete tasks, and develop better relationships. These medications can also decrease annoying or distracting behaviors. Children respond to the medicines differently, which is why it's crucial for parents and physicians to collaborate to determine the right medication for each child. A health care provider may suggest a combination of medications and other treatments including counseling.
There are two types of medication that treat ADHD in teenagers, children and adults: stimulants as well as other medications. best adhd medication affect brain chemicals that affect attention and impulse control. They can have a short-acting effect (lasting only a few hours) or a more long-lasting effect (lasting the entire day). Certain people experience side effects like a decrease in appetite, sleep issues and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. The majority of doctors can identify a medication that has little or no side effects for the majority of people.
The most common medicines used to treat ADHD are called stimulants, and they include methylphenidates and amphetamines. They're regulated as Schedule II drugs by the Drug Enforcement Administration because they have a high chance of misuse or abuse when not taken in accordance with the prescription. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are just a few examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These drugs could cause serious health issues in the event that they are not taken according to the prescription. It is crucial to consult with your doctor prior to taking these medicines.
Children younger than 6 years should not be treated with stimulants. Some children might require a different medication, or a lower dosage. Before prescribing medication your doctor will look for any other conditions that could be responsible for the symptoms of your child. You will be asked about your child's symptoms, habits and behavior and family history. They will also perform an examination to determine whether there are any issues with vision or hearing. They may also ask about your child's diet and sleep patterns. They'll be looking to find out whether your child suffers from allergies. The doctor will then issue the prescription and instructions on how to use it. You should visit your doctor frequently to determine whether the medication is working.
Long-acting
Similar to a pair of glasses that can sharpen vision and improve clarity, ADHD medications can help your brain focus. They boost levels of chemicals which are crucial to focus and attention. There are two main types of stimulants (e.g. amphetamines and the methylphenidates), and non-stimulant medication.
Short- and long-acting stimulant meds are available for people suffering from ADHD. They work in 70-80% of cases. Long-acting ADHD medications work in a series of phases, with a portion of the dose released immediately after taking one in the morning and the remainder released throughout the day. They are easier to remember, decrease the amount of pills you need to take daily and deliver a consistent dose of medication when compared to shorter-acting medications. They also have less adverse reactions and "ups and downs" than short-acting medications.
Non-stimulant
Around 70 to 80% adults and children can be treated with medication that can reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications improve their ability to concentrate and control their impulsivity. They also help improve the school performance and social skills. In fact, medication is the first option for many people suffering from ADHD. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other treatments like behavior therapy.
Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin and Adderall help by increasing the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This increases the effectiveness of nerve signals and helps people concentrate and manage impulsivity. Stimulant medications are available as immediate-release, long-acting, or extended-release tablets. The most well-known stimulants include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. The instant-release version, which is administered in small doses throughout the day to provide quick relief from symptoms, is usually taken in smaller doses. The longer-acting extended-release versions are usually taken once per day and offer prolonged relief from symptoms.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a number of non-stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. The most frequently prescribed nonstimulant medication is atomoxetine (Strattera). Qelbree is a brand new medication. These medications don't contain amphetamine or methylphenidate, and aren't controlled substances, which means they are less prone to misuse.
Clonidine and Guanfacine are both nonstimulant medications. These are more frequently prescribed to those suffering from a combination of Tourette syndrome/ADHD. It takes a few weeks for them to reduce anxiety and tics. These drugs can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
The drugs aren't always effective or well-tolerated. The first medication one takes to treat ADHD might not be the best choice or trigger unpleasant or unpalatable adverse reactions. The doctor can help by altering the dosage or switching to a different medication.
Tell your doctor about all medications including supplements and over-the counter medicines. This information is used to prevent interactions between different medications. It is also important to let your doctor know of any changes in mood or behavior that may be a sign of a problem with your medication.