Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children taking ADHD medication tend to concentrate better, be less impulsive and calmer. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowing in growth and could be experiencing an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these medications.
There are many different types of medications that include liquids, tablets patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate release, sustained-release and extended-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drugs that can be effective in treating ADHD. These medications help improve focus and attention by affecting certain neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex region that is often called the brain's "secretary" because it aids with planning and organizational skills.
Stimulants are available both in short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a every day. These include methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are more potent and last longer, however they all work in the same way in improving focus and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release forms. They are a better option since they last from 8 to 12 hours, and are generally taken only once a day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquid to make drinks, while others are in pill form.
It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will watch how you respond to the different kinds of drugs and adjust the dosage if needed. Medications should only be used as part of a complete treatment plan, which will include a combination of behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications can take a bit longer to kick in, but can make you feel more in control and boost your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the way that stimulants do, so they are safer to use over a longer period of 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 and is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor may prescribe other medicines from this class such as the guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).
Off-label, non-stimulant antidepressants can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past, such as Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work, or if they have too many adverse effects.
Your doctor may also prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These drugs don't have immediate effects however they can reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs from the others and can cause adverse effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. medication for adult adhd can have some unpleasant but usually not severe, side effects, such as hearing ringing or changes in vision.