Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to concentrate more effectively, have less impulsive, and feel calmer. They also get on with schoolwork. Some individuals may experience a slight slowing in their growth or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure while taking these medications.
They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most popular stimulant. It comes in three forms: immediate-release, sustained-release and extended-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that is effective in treating ADHD. These drugs enhance focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it helps in planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak in 30 to 45 minutes, and must be taken twice or three times a day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphetamines are more potent and last longer, but they both work similar ways to improve attention and focus. There are also extended-release versions of certain stimulant drugs. They are a better option because they last between 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken daily. Some of these medications are a powder that you mix with liquid to create a drink, while others are in pill form.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will observe your response to different types of medicines and adjust the dosage as needed. adhd medication for adults uk of medication should be part of a complete treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to start working however they can help you feel more in control and boost your impulsivity, concentration and focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way stimulants do. They can therefore be used for a longer time. These medications can also have less side negative effects like constipation, heartburn and reduced sexual drive. Strattera is the first of these drugs that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's a selective reuptake norepinephrine inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both medicines in this class.
Off-label, non-stimulant antidepressants can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant group, such as Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only suggest these drugs in cases where stimulants or other non-stimulants aren't working or cause too many side consequences.
Your doctor can also prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have a direct effect however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. They're in a different category than the other options and can trigger certain side effects like shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also recommend taking a low dose of an antidepressant called bupropion (Wellbutrin) which isn't an FDA-approved treatment for ADHD but works well to improve concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause some unpleasant but not always serious side effects such as hearing loss or changes in vision.