What Makes The Medication For ADHD So Effective? In COVID-19
Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
The use of medication can help control ADHD symptoms but isn't a cure for it. It can take some time to determine the right dosage and medication that work best for your child or you. Your doctor's communication must be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the first treatment for both children and adults with ADHD. advice here increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain.
Stimulants
The most common medication prescribed by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. About 70-80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD notice improvements in their symptoms after identifying the right stimulant drug and dosage.
As a first-line treatment, doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates to teenagers and children with ADHD. Amphetamines are also prescribed as they are more effective and have fewer side-effects in adults. Stimulants work on two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. Heart patients should be closely monitored while taking stimulants.
Many children and adults who take stimulants may experience some side effects. But most times the side effects disappear within a few weeks or less. If they don't, speak to your doctor about changing the medication or looking for another one that works better for you or your child.
Some of the most common side effects of stimulants include a loss of appetite, sleeplessness and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Certain people experience personality changes. Some people experience worsening anxiety or depression. This is why it's crucial to talk to a mental health professional prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can make some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches and a loss of appetite. They can also result in an increased risk of a substance abuse. In low doses, stimulants used to treat ADHD do not create a habit. However, they can be addictive if misused or in high doses.
Non-stimulant medication takes longer to work and does not last as much as stimulants. However, they do enhance focus and attention, and reduce the risk of impulsivity. A majority of these drugs are based on antidepressants, and they affect the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed alone or in combination with stimulants. This is especially applicable when a person has anxiety, depression and ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have shown that they can achieve GPAs comparable to those of their peers if they adhere to good study habits. In fact, a recent study showed that in a group of more than 90 college students who had ADHD, those who used medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by an average of a letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two classes of drugs - methylphenidates or amphetamines. Amphétamines are more prone for abuse and dependence than methylphenidates. The latest, more effective atomoxetine (Wellbutrin), and bupropion have lower risks for abuse and dependence. Some people add with a long-acting drug taken once daily with an immediate-release dose during the mid to late afternoon to reduce fluctuations in their concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). adhd medication following chart outlines the class of medication names, generic names, brand names, and the duration of action.