10 Key Factors On Best Medication For ADHD You Didn't Learn At School

Best Medication For ADHD

Most children and teenagers who take ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and get on with their schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowdown in growth and may be experiencing an increase in heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.

Medications are available in different forms, including capsules, tablets liquid, patches and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). 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 of drugs known as stimulants.  add adhd medication  help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters in the brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often called the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in the planning and organizing skills.

Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken two or three times a day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphetamines are more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates however they work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release versions. They are a better option because they last between 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken once a day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquids to make a beverage, while others are pills.

It can take time to find the right medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will watch how you react to different kinds of drugs and alter the dosage as required. Drugs should only be used as part of a complete treatment plan, which should include a combination of behavioral therapy and support services.

Non-stimulant ADHD medications can take a bit longer to kick in however they can help you feel more in control and improve your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications do not affect dopamine or norepinephrine like stimulants do. They can therefore be utilized for a longer period of time. They can also have fewer adverse effects, like heartburn, constipation and a lessened sex drive. The first of these medications 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 drugs within this category.

There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are available off-label to treat ADHD. These older tricyclic antidepressants like Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat ADHD. These drugs are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work, or if they cause too many adverse side effects.

Your doctor can prescribe the atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These drugs don't have an immediate effect however they can reduce impulsivity and improve concentration over time. They're in a different drug class from the other choices, and they can cause certain side effects like shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also suggest taking a low dose of an antidepressant, called bupropion (Wellbutrin), which is not a FDA-approved treatment for ADHD however it can help increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but usually not severe, side effects, like hearing ringing or changes in vision.