The Best Advice You'll Receive About ADHD Medication Names
ADHD Medication Names
Medicines ease symptoms of ADHD in about 70 percent to 80% children and adults. They help focus kids and reduce hyperactivity. The health care team will be watching how well the medication is working and may alter your child's dosage or how often they take it.
Stimulants help neurons transmit signals. Examples include methylphenidate sold under the brand names Ritalin or Concerta, and dexamfetamine which is sold under the brand name Vyvanse. Atomoxetine and long-acting Guanfacineare both referred to as alpha agonists -- also treat ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most widely utilized ADHD drugs and can help control symptoms for all age groups. These drugs increase the dopamine level in the brain, which enhances concentration and focus, as well as decreasing hyperactivity. Amphetamines, methylphenidate and other stimulants are the most frequently prescribed stimulants. Common brand names include Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexadrine. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine (meth) and crystal meth, cocaine, and bath salts made of synthetic cathinones (ecstasy).
The adverse effects of stimulant medication include stomach upset, decreased appetite, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. People who have been taking stimulants for long periods might also experience the "rebound effect," meaning they become hyperactive after the drug has worn off. They may also experience mood swings such as depression and anxiety. These side effects typically decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
Most doctors recommend mixing psychiatric medication with behavioral therapy to enhance the management of symptoms. Children and adults can learn strategies to control their symptoms through behavioral therapy. It can also aid in reducing stress and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.
ADHD medications don't treat ADHD, but they can help improve a person's quality of living. Numerous studies have demonstrated that stimulants can be used in conjunction with other treatment methods such as parent education and counseling to help improve the control of symptoms.
Adults with ADHD require different medications and higher doses than children. It can take time to determine the appropriate dosage and medication that can control symptoms with the least amount of adverse side negative effects. Doctors typically prescribe a variety of medications during the first few weeks to determine which one is most suitable for each patient.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications take longer to work and does not last as long as stimulants. However understanding can be beneficial for certain individuals. They work by increasing the amount of a chemical that is present in the brain called norepinephrine. Norepinephrine improves concentration and controls impulses. The medications that boost norepinephrine levels include atomoxetine (Strattera) and the long-acting alpha agonists clonidine hydrochloride (Kapvay) and Guanfacine hydrochloride (Intuniv). These aren't controlled substances, which means they have less of a potential for misuse than stimulants.
If ADHD medication fails to work or has serious adverse effects, psychiatric medication could be prescribed. Your doctor might recommend tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) or nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor) to treat depression and anxiety that can sometimes be associated with ADHD. These medications also slow the process of the brain's own natural chemicals, but don't have the same effect on the heart rate and blood pressure as stimulants do. They're often used in combination with stimulants to treat ADHD because they offer the additional benefit of helping increase attention and focus.