Best Medication For ADHD
The majority of children and teens who take ADHD medication find they concentrate better, are less impulsive, feel calmer and get on with their school work. Some experience a minor slowing of growth and be experiencing an increase in heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.
They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets liquid, patches and tablets (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most well-known stimulant. It's available in immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs enhance concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is sometimes called the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken 2 or 3 times per throughout the day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines can be more potent and last longer than methylphenidates but both work in the same way to increase concentration and attention. There are extended-release versions of certain stimulant drugs. They are a better option because they last between 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken once a day. Some of these medicines are a powder that is mixed with liquid to make a drink, and others are in pill form.
It may take some time to determine read more the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will watch how you react to various types of medications and will adjust the dosage as needed. The use of medications should be done as part of a complete treatment plan, which will include support and behavioral therapy services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to work however it can help you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration and help you concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the way that stimulants do, and therefore can be more secure to use for an extended period of time. They can also be less prone to adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn and reduced sex drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera which is an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor may prescribe other medications from this group, including the guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications within the tricyclic antidepressant family, such as Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only recommend these drugs when stimulants and other non-stimulants aren't working or cause too many adverse effects.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These drugs don't have an immediate impact however they can reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. These medications are in a different class of drugs compared to the others and can trigger negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and decrease the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects, such as hearing loss or changes in vision.