Best Medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who take ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel more calm and are able to get on with their school work. Some sufferers may experience a slowdown in their growth, or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medications.
There are many different types of medicines that include liquids, tablets patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are one of the classes of drugs that is 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 called the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in the planning and organizing abilities.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes and should be taken twice or three times a day. Amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin, are among these. Amphetamines are more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates, however, they both function in the same way to improve attention and focus. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release forms. adhd depression medication are the best choice because they last for 8 to 12 hours and are generally taken only daily. Certain of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquids to create drinks, while others are pills.
It can take time to find the right medication for you or your child. Your doctor will monitor your reaction to different kinds of medication and alter the dosage as needed. Drugs should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that will include support and behavioral therapy services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little more time to work but it can make you feel more in control, increase your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same as stimulants do, and therefore can be more secure to use for longer periods of time. They can also be less prone to negative effects, including constipation, heartburn and decreased sex drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera, and it's a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medicines in this group.
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past like Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat ADHD. These drugs are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work, or if they cause too many adverse side effects.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These drugs don't have an immediate impact however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. They're in a different class than the other options and can trigger some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also recommend a low dose of an antidepressant known as bupropion (Wellbutrin) that is not a FDA-approved treatment for ADHD but can be effective to increase concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but usually not serious side effects like the ringing of your ears or changes in your vision.