The Reasons Medication For ADHD Is Tougher Than You Think
Choosing best adhd medication for adults with anxiety For ADHD
The use of medication can help manage ADHD symptoms but it's not a cure for the symptoms. It can take a while to determine the right dosage and medication that work best for you or your child. Open and honest communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial treatment option for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. These drugs increase levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect focus, attention and movement. Around 70 to 80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms after identifying the right stimulant drug and dose.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for children and teens with ADHD. They also may prescribe amphetamines, which are more effective for adults and cause less adverse negative effects. Stimulants alter two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. People with heart conditions should be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulants will experience side effects. The majority of these adverse effects will subside within a few days or weeks. If they do not go away talk to your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that performs better.
Some of the most frequent effects of stimulants are the loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Certain people experience personality changes. Some may experience a worsening of anxiety or depression. adhd medication pregnancy is why it is important to consult with a mental health professional before beginning stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants can cause anxiety and increase blood pressure. They can also trigger headaches, stomachaches and a decrease in appetite. They also increase the risk of substance abuse. They aren't habit-forming when they are in the small doses used to treat ADHD however, they could cause addiction if used in excessive doses.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to start working and do not last longer than stimulants, however, they can help improve attention and focus and reduce impulsivity. They are primarily made up of antidepressants and work on norepinephrine, which is a brain chemical. They are available as a single medication or as a combination with stimulants, especially when someone is suffering from depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance among students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have shown that they can attain GPAs comparable to those of their peers, if they follow a good set of habits of study. In fact the results of a recent study revealed that in a group of more than 90 college students suffering from ADHD students who used medication to manage their symptoms had their grades improved by an average of a letter grade.
The majority of medications used to treat ADHD are classified into one of two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Amphetamines have more potential for abuse and dependency than methylphenidates. The latest, more effective atomoxetine (Wellbutrin) and bupropion are less prone for misuse and dependency. Some people add with a long-acting drug taken once every day with an immediate release dose during the mid to late afternoon, to minimize ups and downs in their concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart lists the class of medication names, generic names, brand names and the length of the action.