How To Tell If You're Ready To Go After ADHD Otc Medication
adhd and anxiety medication For ADHD
The most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. They can be used quickly to improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, they can cause side effects such as headaches, stomach upsets, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two main groups of stimulants. They are available in liquid or chewable form, and also as short-acting, intermediate-acting or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs for ADHD. They work by increasing brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which increase attention and focus. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release versions. The most commonly used stimulants include methylphenidate, amphetamines, and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects, and they have a high potential for misuse. These drugs should only be taken with a doctor's approval. L-tyrosine, a natural supplement, can also increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, but it should not be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments include medication, therapy, behavior changes and skill training. This is sometimes referred to multimodal treatment. The use of medicines can help alleviate symptoms in the majority of children and adults, but they cannot cure the condition. To achieve the best results, they should be taken regularly. In many instances, the medications will need to be adjusted to find the most minimal dose that effectively manages symptoms while causing the least amount of adverse consequences.
Some people experience relief from their symptoms if they take a stimulant in morning and then add an extended-release medication in the in the afternoon or evening. This can prevent a "crash" that can result in short-term fatigue and a negative attitude.
During the past few decades, amphetamines were extensively abused for non-medical reasons in particular by truck drivers, athletes and students to stay awake and to boost performance. These drugs are very quick to take effect and give an euphoria-like feeling and energy. They can be snorted, injected, or smoked. Certain of these drugs are addictive.
The FDA has approved two drugs to treat adult ADHD which are Atomoxetine (Vyvanse) and Guanfacine (Fastin). These are alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists, originally designed to reduce blood pressure. They are very useful for treating ADHD because they possess a calming effect and help reduce hyperactivity, aggression and the inability to concentrate. These drugs are not risky, but they can cause serious adverse effects. They can also increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. These medications can control ADHD symptoms for some people. They are typically prescribed when stimulants fail to offer enough relief or cause unpleasant side effects. The tricyclic antidepressants imipramine, and nortriptyline are particularly effective in certain situations however they have been associated with a variety of adverse side effects such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people who have ADHD don't need to take medication, but they may benefit from learning healthy lifestyle habits and coping skills. A few adults who have mild or moderate symptoms are able to manage their symptoms through diet and exercise, while others may require the help of therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy which teaches skills to change the way people think and behave. Other self-help strategies, such as dietary modifications and supplements, may be beneficial but should only be used under the guidance of a physician.