Why People Don't Care About Best Medication For ADHD
Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to concentrate more effectively, have less impulsive, and are more calm. They also get on with schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowdown in growth and may experience an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these medications.
Medications are available in different forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most well-known stimulant. It is available in three forms: immediate-release, extended-release, and sustained-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. These medications improve focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex region, which is often referred to as the brain's "secretary" because it assists with organizing and planning abilities.
Stimulants are available both in short-acting and long-acting dosages. The short-acting medicines peak within 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken two or three times a throughout the day. These include methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer than methylphenidates however, they both function in the same way to improve attention and focus. There are extended-release versions of certain stimulant medications. These can be a better alternative since they last from up to 12 hours, and are usually taken once per day. Certain of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquids to make drinks, while others are pills.
It may take a while to find the right medication for you or your child. Your doctor will monitor your reaction to different kinds of medication and alter the dosage as needed. Drugs should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that will include support and behavioral therapy services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications can take a bit longer to kick in but they can help you feel more in control and improve your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These medications do not affect dopamine or norepinephrine the same way stimulants do. They can therefore be used for a longer time. These medications also have less adverse negative effects like constipation, heartburn and reduced sexual drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera and is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medications in this group.
Non-stimulant antidepressants that are off-label are also available to treat ADHD. These older tricyclic antidepressants like Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work, or if they cause too many adverse side effects.
adult add medications and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These medications do not have a direct effect, but they can help reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a distinct drug class from the other choices, and they can cause some side effects such as headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor may also recommend the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but usually not severe side effects, like hearing ringing or changes in vision.