The Best Advice You'll Ever Receive On ADHD Medication
ADHD Medication
Medication is often a part of an ADHD treatment strategy. The most frequently used stimulant drugs are methylphenidate and dextro-amphetamine. Each of these stimulant medicines has a variety of brand names, and each has a unique chemical make-up.
Stimulants stimulate brain chemicals that aid in transmitting messages between neurons. They are typically the first drugs doctors try for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the primary medication that doctors prescribe for ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine. These can improve focus, decrease impulsive behavior, and promote peace. Doctors often prescribe amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or atomoxetine, which is in the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors to treat ADHD. Serious heart-related complications are rare, but doctors may be able to monitor patients with heart problems closely while taking stimulants.
adhd anxiety medication are usually the most effective treatment for ADHD particularly for adolescents and children. These medications boost brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, helping them focus, concentrate and learn. These drugs also increase energy and arousal. Studies have demonstrated that when taken in the right way, these drugs can significantly improve school performance. However, many experts worry that students who use stimulants for prolonged periods of time can develop a tolerance to them and begin to need more doses. They may also trigger negative side effects, including changes in appetite, difficulties sleeping, anxiety, or depression.
Doctors who prescribe ADHD medication typically start with a low dosage and gradually increase it over a period of several weeks. They'll want you and your parents to monitor the positive and negative effects of the medicine. If the medication does not appear to be working or has side effects you aren't able to handle, your physician might try another drug.
Most kids and adults who take stimulant medication experience at least a few adverse effects. Most of these are mild and go away after a few days or weeks as the body adjusts to the drug. The most commonly reported side effects include a loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and an increase in heart rate.
Certain studies have found that those who are taking stimulant drugs for ADHD are more prone to tics. These are repeated sounds or movements like eye blinking or throat clearing. These drugs don't cause tics, but make them more apparent. ADHD medications may also cause changes in mood or voice and headaches, stomach upset and occasionally an increase or decrease in blood pressure or heartbeat.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs work differently than stimulants. They increase the levels of norepinephrine - an important brain chemical that assists to regulate the flow of thoughts and attention. They can reduce anxiety, depression, and bipolar symptoms of bipolar disorder. They are less harmful than stimulants but do not work as well to treat ADHD symptoms. Your doctor may suggest that you try these medications for bipolar disorder or depression along with ADHD. They may also recommend psychosocial treatment to help manage the symptoms of ADHD and improve your overall quality of life.