Types of ADHD Medication
There are many medications that can be used to treat ADHD. It can take some time to find a medication that is effective for you or your children.
Stimulant drugs, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), help curb symptoms by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals. Some people who take these drugs experience a sudden decrease in energy and a "crash" when the drug wears off.
Short-acting
Many kids with ADHD can be helped by medications that help control their behavior. These medications can help children to finish tasks, develop better relationships, and learn. They can also help reduce annoying or distracting behavior. Parents and doctors should work together to decide which medication is suitable for their child. Children react differently to medications, so it is crucial to choose the appropriate medication for each child. A health care team may suggest a combination of medicines and other treatments, such as counseling.
There are two kinds of medications used to treat ADHD in adolescents, children, and adults: stimulants and other medications. Stimulants alter brain chemical that affect attention and impulse control. They are either short-acting (lasting a few hours) or long-acting (lasting all day). Some people experience side-effects like a decrease in appetite or sleep issues. Most doctors can find medications that have little or no side effect for most people.
Stimulants are among the most popular medications used to treat ADHD. These include amphetamines, methylphenidates and other stimulants. They're classified as Schedule II drugs by the Drug Enforcement Administration because they have a high risk for misuse or abuse if they are not used as directed. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are a few examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These drugs can cause serious health problems if they are not taken according to the prescription. It is crucial to consult your doctor before taking these medications.
Children younger than 6 years should not be treated with stimulants. Some children may require a different medication or a lower dose. Before prescribing medication your doctor will check for other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms of your child. They will inquire about your child's symptoms, routines, and family history. They will also perform an examination to determine if there are any problems in the area of vision or hearing. They might ask questions about your child's sleeping habits and diet. They'll be looking to find out if your child has any allergies. The doctor will then give you the prescription and instructions on how to take it. You should visit your doctor regularly to determine whether the medication is working.
Long-acting
Similar to a pair of glasses that sharpens fuzzy vision, ADHD medications can help your brain focus. They increase levels of chemical that are important to focus and attention. There are two main types that are stimulants (e.g. amphetamines, methylphenidates, etc.)) and non-stimulant drugs.
Long- and short-acting stimulant medications are available to people suffering from ADHD. They work in 70-80% of cases. Long-acting ADHD medication is administered in stages that have one portion of the dose released right after taking the morning pill, and the remainder released throughout the day. They are simpler to remember, reduce the number pills you need to take every day and give a consistent amount of medication as compared to shorter-acting medication. They also cause fewer side effects and "ups and downs" than short-acting medications.
Non-stimulant
Around 70 to 80 percent of adults and children can be treated with medication that reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications improve their ability to focus and control the impulsivity. They can also enhance their academic performance and social abilities. In fact, medication is the first option for many people with ADHD. The medication can be utilized in conjunction with other treatments such as behavior therapy.
Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin and Adderall, work by enhancing the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine that are found in the brain. medication adhd adults increases the effectiveness between nerves of messages and helps control impulsivity and focus. Stimulant medication is available in immediate-release, extended-release and long-acting tablets. The most well-known stimulants are Ritalin Concerta Adderall Vyvanse. The instant-release form that is taken in small doses throughout the day to provide fast relief from symptoms, is generally used in smaller doses. The longer-acting and extended-release forms are typically taken daily and provide long-lasting relief from symptoms.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a variety of nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD. The most frequently prescribed nonstimulant medication is atomoxetine (Strattera). A newer drug, Qelbree, is another option. These medications do not contain amphetamine or methylphenidate and aren't controlled substances which means they have less potential for abuse.
Clonidine and Guanfacine are both non-stimulant medicines. They are more likely to be prescribed to those who have a combination of ADHD and Tourette syndrome. It takes several weeks for them to start working and reduce anxiety and tics. These drugs can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
The medications aren't always effective or well tolerated. The first medication that a patient takes to treat ADHD might not be the right one, or it might cause side effects that are bothersome or intolerant. The doctor may adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication.
Inform your doctor about all medications, including supplements and over-the-counter medications. This information is used to prevent interactions between different medications. It is important to inform your doctor of any changes in your mood or behavior that may indicate a problem.