Best Medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who are taking ADHD medication find they concentrate better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and more focused with their schoolwork. Some may experience a slight slowdown in growth and may be experiencing an increase in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medicines.
There are many different types of medicines that include liquids, tablets, patches, and capsules (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
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These drugs help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters within the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often referred to by the term "secretary of the brain" because it assists in planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines peak in 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken two or three times a day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphetamines are more potent and last longer than methylphenidates, but both work in the same way to increase attention and focus. There are also extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. They can be a better alternative since they last from up to 12 hours and are typically taken once per day. Some of these are a powder that you mix with liquid to create drinks, while others are in pill form.
It can take time to find the right medication for you or your child. medication for add in adults will observe how you react to different kinds of drugs and alter the dosage as required. The use of medications should be a part of an overall treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to begin working however they can help you feel more in control and increase your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the way that stimulants do, so they can be safer to use over a longer period of time. They also have less negative effects, including heartburn, constipation and a lessened sexual drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medications in this class.
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry, such as Tofranil(imipramine) are prescribed to treat ADHD. Doctors only suggest these drugs if stimulants and other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many adverse negative effects.
Your doctor can prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have a direct effect, but they can help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. They're in a different drug class from the other choices and can trigger some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but not usually serious side effects, such as ringing in the ears or changes in vision.