What Is Types Of ADHD Medication? History Of Types Of ADHD Medication
Types of ADHD Medication
The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine within your brain, which increases concentration and can help control the impulsive behavior.
They are available in tablets or as a patch (lisdexamfetamine). Long-acting stimulant products are the best choice because they provide medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs for ADHD. They are quick-acting and reduce ADHD symptoms for 70 to 80% of the children who use them. They work by increasing the levels of brain chemicals known as dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves concentration and decreases fatigue. Methylphenidate is a stimulant that is commonly used to treat ADHD. It is available in chewable or liquid tablet form and can be taken up to three times per each day. Amphetamines are sometimes prescribed for ADHD. They are slightly more powerful than methylphenidates. These medications can temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate. Patients with preexisting medical conditions are advised to inform their doctor if they suffer from any of these conditions.
Stimulant medicines can lead to addiction if they are misused, which includes taking more than the recommended dose or mixing them with other substances or alcohol. People who use them according to the directions, however, are not at an increased risk of addiction. There is evidence to suggest that ADHD medication can aid those who are at risk of addiction to avoid addiction.
The FDA has approved a number of stimulant medications for treating ADHD. They are usually available in generic form, meaning that the chemical formulation is similar to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe whichever medication is most effective for your child or yourself.
Your doctor will begin with a small dose, and observe how you or your child reacts before making adjustments to the dosage. Then your doctor will decide whether you'll need to change to a different medicine or add another.
Stimulants can cause side effects like dry mouth, a decreased appetite, and changes in mood or sleep patterns. Certain adolescents and children who are taking them experience tics, which are sudden movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. Some studies show that the use of stimulants may cause a slight decrease in height for some children and adolescents.
Non-stimulant drugs are slower to take effect than stimulants but can still enhance attention. They can take anywhere from three to four weeks before they be noticeable. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce depression, anxiety and other mental health problems in some people. They are typically prescribed in combination with stimulant medications for ADHD.
adhd sleep medication can also be effective in treating ADHD. They alter the levels of serotonin in the brain. Certain -- such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) -- have been proven to improve focus and impulsivity in people suffering from ADHD.
There aren't many non-stimulant medicines that are FDA-approved for treating ADHD. Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD in addition or instead of stimulants if the adverse effects are too severe for you. Some people with ADHD may also benefit from antidepressants, because they enhance memory and reduce impulsivity as well as aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are often prescribed in conjunction with stimulants and can be more effective than stimulants by themselves.