Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to concentrate better, be less impulsive, and are more calm. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some people may experience a slight slowdown in their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure when taking these medications.
Medications are available in different forms like capsules, tablets liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release dextroamphetamine and extended-release amphetamine salts.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These drugs improve focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex region, which is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it aids in the planning and organization abilities.
medication for adhd come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken 2 or 3 times per throughout the day. add adhd medication as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin, are among these. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, however they both function in similar ways to improve focus and attention. There are also extended-release versions of certain stimulant drugs. They are a good alternative since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken once per day. Some of these are a powder that you mix with liquid to make a drink, while others are in pill form.
It can take time to find the right medication for you or your child. Your doctor will observe your response to different types of medicines and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medication should be part of an overall treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to begin working but they can make you feel more in control and increase your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications do not affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way stimulants do. They are therefore able to be employed for a longer duration. They can also have fewer negative effects, including constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. The first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both medications in this group.
Off-label, non-stimulant antidepressants can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant group, like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only recommend these drugs if stimulants and other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many adverse consequences.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These medications don't have immediate effects however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. These medications are in a different class of drugs than the others and can cause side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor might also suggest a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin) which isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but not usually serious, side effects, like hearing ringing, or changes in vision.