Types of ADHD Medication
The most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They increase levels of the neurotransmitter hormones norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. This improves your concentration and helps control the impulsive behavior.
They are available as tablets or patches (lisdexamfetamine). It is best to choose long-acting stimulant products, which deliver medication throughout the entire day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs for ADHD. They are fast-acting and reduce ADHD symptoms in 70-80 percent of children who take them. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals, called dopamine and norepinephrine. This increases focus and decreases fatigue. Methylphenidate is a stimulant that is commonly used to treat ADHD. It is available in liquid or chewable tablet form and can be consumed up to three times per every day. Amphetamines, which are a bit stronger than methylphenidates are also sometimes prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications can temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate. People with preexisting conditions are advised to consult their doctor if they suffer from any of these conditions.
The use of stimulants can result in addiction if misused, which includes taking more than the prescribed dosage or mixing them with other substances or alcohol. Individuals who use them according to the directions however, do not have an increased risk of addiction. There is evidence to suggest that ADHD medication may even aid people who are at risk of addiction to stay away from addiction.
treating adhd without medication has approved several types of stimulant medications for treating ADHD. Generic drugs are available, meaning that the chemical formulation is the same. Your doctor will prescribe the one that is best for you or your child.
Your doctor will begin with a low dose and observe how your child or you react before making adjustments to the dosage. Then your doctor will determine whether you'll need to change to a different medicine or add another.
Stimulants can trigger side effects, such as dry mouth, a decrease in appetite and changes in sleep patterns or moods. Some children and teenagers who take stimulants experience tics. These are sudden movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. Certain studies have shown that the use of stimulants could cause a slight decrease in height for some children and adolescents.
Non-stimulant drugs are slower to take effect than stimulants but can still increase attention. They can take anywhere from three to four weeks before they show a noticeable improvement. Non-stimulant medicines can reduce depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems in some people. They are usually prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant medication for ADHD.
Antidepressants can also be effective in treating ADHD. They alter the levels of serotonin that are present in the brain. Certain -- such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) -- have been proven to improve focus and impulsivity in some people with ADHD.
There aren't many non-stimulant medicines that are FDA-approved for treating ADHD. Your doctor might prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD in addition or instead of stimulants if the adverse effects are too intense for you. They may also aid in improving memory and decrease aggression and impulsivity in some adults suffering from ADHD. 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 prescribed in combination with stimulants and could be more efficient than stimulants on their own.
