Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children taking ADHD medication tend to focus better, be less impulsive, and feel calmer. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some may experience a slight slowing of growth and have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.
The medications are available in a variety of forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). medication for adult adhd (methylphenidate) is the most well-known stimulant. It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. medication for adult adhd enhance focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex region, which is often called the brain's "secretary" because it assists in the planning and organization skills.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken 2 or 3 times per day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin, are among these. Amphetamines can be stronger and last longer than methylphenidates, however, they both function in the same way to improve attention and focus. Certain stimulant medications are available in extended-release forms. These can be a better alternative since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are usually taken daily. Some of these medications are a powder that is mixed with liquid to make a drink, while others are pills.
It may take a while to find the right medication for you or your child. Your doctor will watch how you respond to the various types of drugs and alter the dosage as required. The use of medicines should be a part of an overall treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a longer to take effect, but it can help you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your focus. These medications do not alter dopamine or norepinephrine in like stimulants do. They can therefore be used for a longer time. They can also have fewer adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn and lessened sex drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera which is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine. These are both medicines within this category.
There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry like Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat ADHD. Doctors will only recommend these medications when stimulants and other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many adverse effects.
Viloxazine or Atomoxetine may be prescribed by your doctor. These medications do not have a direct effect but they may help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. They're in a distinct drug class than the other options and can trigger some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can improve concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant, but generally not serious, side effects, including hearing ringing or changes in vision.