Types of ADHD Medication
There are many treatments for ADHD. It can take some time to find the one that is effective for you or your child.
Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin help to reduce symptoms by increasing the levels of a certain chemical in the brain. Certain people who take these medications experience a sudden decrease in energy levels, and even a "crash", when the drug wears off.
Short-acting
Drugs that regulate behavior can help many kids with ADHD. These medications can aid children in learning, finish tasks and have better relationships. They can also cut down on annoying or distracting behaviors. Children react to medications differently, so it's essential for parents and physicians to work together to find a medication that works best for each child. add in adults medication might suggest a combination of medications and other therapies, including counseling.
There are two kinds of drugs that treat ADHD in adults, teens and children: stimulants as well as non-stimulants. Stimulants alter brain chemical levels that affect the ability to focus and control impulses. They can have a quick-acting effect (lasting just a few hours) or a longer-lasting effect (lasting the entire day). Some sufferers experience side effects like decreased appetite, sleep problems, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. The majority of doctors can identify an medication that has minimal or no adverse effects for most people.
Stimulants are among the most popular treatments for ADHD. They include amphetamines and methylphenidates and other stimulants. They're classified as Schedule II drugs by the Drug Enforcement Administration because they have a high chance of misuse or abuse if they are not taken as prescribed. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are all examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These medicines can have serious health problems if not used as directed and therefore it is important to consult your doctor prior to starting them.
The use of stimulants is not recommended for children who are younger than. Some children might require a different medication, or a lower dosage. Your doctor can also look for other conditions that might be the cause of your child's symptoms prior to prescribing a medication. They will ask about your child's symptoms, habits and family history. They will also conduct examinations to look for problems such as hearing or vision. They may ask about your child's sleeping habits and diet. They'll want to know if your child suffers from allergies. The doctor will then issue the prescription as well as instructions on how to take it. Follow up with your doctor often to see how the medication is performing.
Long-acting
As a pair of glasses enhances vision blurred by glasses, ADHD medications can help your brain focus. They boost levels of chemicals that are essential to focus and attention. The two major kinds of medications are stimulants (e.g., amphetamines or methylphenidates) and non-stimulant medications.
Stimulant meds, that work for 70-80% of people who suffer from ADHD, come in both short- and long-acting forms. Long-acting ADHD medication is administered in stages that have a portion of the dose released right after taking the morning pill and the rest released throughout the day. They can cut down on the number of pills needed to take per day, are easier to remember and provide more consistently the dosage of medication than short-acting drugs. They also cause fewer adverse reactions and "ups and downs" than short-acting medications.
Non-stimulant
Around 70 to 80 percent of adults and children can be treated using medications which reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications improve their ability to concentrate and control their the impulsivity. They also aid in improving academic performance and social skills. In fact medication is often the primary treatment of choice for people with ADHD. The medication can be used in conjunction with other treatments like behavior therapy.
Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin and Adderall are effective in increasing the levels of neurotransmitter hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. This improves the exchange between nerves of messages that help to regulate the impulsivity and focus. Stimulant medication is available in immediate-release, extended-release or long-acting tablets. The most well-known stimulants are Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. The instant-release form that is administered in small doses throughout the day to provide quick symptom relief, is typically used in smaller doses. The longer-acting extended-release versions are usually taken once per day and provide longer treatment of symptoms.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a number of non-stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is the most frequently prescribed nonstimulant drug. Qelbree is a more recent medication. These medications do not contain methylphenidate or amphetamine and aren't controlled substances which means they have less potential for abuse.
Other nonstimulant medications include the guanfacine and clonidine. These are more frequently prescribed to those suffering from a combination of Tourette syndrome and ADHD. They require several weeks before they begin working and decrease anxiety and tics. These medications can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
The effectiveness of medications isn't always guaranteed or well-tolerated. The first medication a patient takes to treat ADHD may not be the right one, or it might cause unwanted side effects that are unpleasant or intolerable. The doctor can help by adjusting the dosage or switching to another medication.
Tell your doctor about all medications including supplements and over-the counter medicines. This information is used to help prevent interactions between different medications. It is also crucial to let your doctor be aware of any changes in behavior or mood that may be a sign of a problem with your medication.