Why Nobody Cares About Best Medication For ADHD
Best Medication For ADHD Most children and teenagers who take ADHD medication find they concentrate better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and more focused with their schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowing in growth and could be experiencing an increase in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medicines. The medications are available in a variety of forms including tablets, capsules, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most common stimulant. It comes 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. These medications help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex region, which is often called the brain's “secretary” because it aids with organizing and planning skills. Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times per day. These include methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates, however, they both function in the same way to improve concentration and attention. There are extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. They are a better option since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken daily. Some of these medications are a powder that is mixed with liquid to create a drink, while others are pills. It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will monitor your response to different types of medications and adjust the dosage if necessary. Drugs should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that will include a combination of behavioral therapy and support services. Non-stimulant ADHD medications can take a bit longer to begin working but they can make you feel more in control and increase your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way stimulants do. They can therefore be utilized for a longer period of time. They can also have fewer negative effects, including constipation, heartburn, and lessened sexual drive. The first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor could prescribe additional medicines from this class, including Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay). Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant group, such as Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or if they have too many adverse effects. Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your doctor. I Am Psychiatry don't have immediate effects, but help reduce the impulsivity of people and increase concentration over time. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs than other ones and may cause side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor might also suggest an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but usually not serious side effects, such as hearing loss or changes in vision.