Types of ADHD Medication
The most common drugs prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. These medications increase levels of the neurotransmitter hormones, norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. This improves concentration and helps in controlling your impulsive behavior.
They are available as tablets or patches (lisdexamfetamine). Long-acting stimulant formulations are preferable, as they deliver medications throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medications for ADHD. They work quickly and reduce ADHD symptoms for 70-80 percent of children who take them. They work by increasing brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces fatigue. Methylphenidate (also known as methylphenidate, Ritalin, and Focalin) is a well-known stimulant used for ADHD. It comes in chewable tablets and liquid forms, and can be taken up to three times per every day. adhd medication ritalin are sometimes prescribed for ADHD. They are slightly stronger than methylphenidates. These medications can temporarily increase the heart rate and blood pressure. People with preexisting health conditions are advised to consult their doctor if they have any of these ailments.
The use of stimulants can result in addiction if they are misused, which means taking more than the prescribed dosage or mixing them with alcohol or other substances. Individuals who use the medications as directed, however, do not have an increased risk of addiction. There is evidence to suggest that using ADHD medication can aid in preventing substance abuse among people who are at risk.
The FDA has approved a range of stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They are typically available in generic form, which means the chemical formulation is identical to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe the medication that is best for you or your child.
Your doctor will start with a small dose and examine how you or your child reacts before altering the dosage. Then your doctor will decide whether you should switch to another medicine or add a different one.
Stimulants can trigger adverse effects like dry mouth, a decrease in appetite, and changes in sleep or mood. Children and teens who are taking stimulants may experience tics. These are sudden movements or noises like eye blinks or throat clearing. adhd medication ritalin have shown that the use of stimulants can result in a slight decrease in height for certain children and adolescents.
Non-stimulant medicines are slower acting than stimulants, however they can increase concentration. It could take up to four weeks before the medication begins working. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce anxiety, depression and other mental health issues in some people. Most often, they are prescribed in conjunction with stimulant medication to treat ADHD.
Antidepressants are also effective in treating ADHD. They work on the levels of serotonin in the brain. Certain such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) -- have been shown to improve focus and impulsivity in people suffering from ADHD.
There aren't many non-stimulant drugs that have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. Your doctor might prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD in addition to or instead of stimulants if the side effects are too much for you. Some people with ADHD may also benefit from antidepressants, because they enhance memory and reduce impulsivity as well as aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are often prescribed in combination with stimulants and could be more efficient than stimulants alone.