Twenty Myths About Best Medication For ADHD: Busted
Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive and more relaxed. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some individuals may experience a slight slowing of their growth or a rise in blood pressure or heart rate when they are taking these drugs.
Medications are available in different forms like capsules, tablets liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available in immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts with extended-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that can be effective in treating ADHD. These drugs enhance focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex which is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it aids with organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants are available both in short-acting as well as long-acting dosages. The short-acting medicines have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes and should be taken two or three times a day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, however they both function in similar ways to improve concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release versions. They are a better option because they last for 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken daily. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to make a beverage, while others are pills.
It may take some time to find the right medication for you or your child. adhd for adults medication will monitor how you respond to the different kinds of medications and will alter the dosage as required. Drugs should only be used as part of a complete treatment plan, which should include behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a more time to work, but it can help you feel in control, improve your concentration and impulsivity, and improve your focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the way that stimulants do, and therefore can be more secure to use over longer periods of time. They also have less side effects, such as constipation, heartburn, and lessened sex drive. The first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera and is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor might prescribe other medications from this group, including Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant family, like Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or have too many adverse effects.
Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your doctor. These medications do not have a direct effect, but help reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve concentration over time. They're in a distinct drug class from the other choices and may cause certain side effects like shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also suggest taking 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 impulsivity. It can have some unpleasant but usually not severe adverse effects, like hearing ringing or changes in vision.