Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. These medications boost levels of the neurotransmitter hormones norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. This improves concentration and helps control the impulsive behavior.
You can buy them as a tablet or as a patch. Long-acting stimulant products are the best choice, as they deliver medications throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medications for ADHD. They are quick-acting and reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 to 80 percent of children who use them. They increase brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. adhd medication ritalin increases focus and decreases tiredness. Methylphenidate (also known as methylphenidate, Ritalin, and Focalin) is a well-known type of stimulant for ADHD. It comes in liquid and chewable tablet forms, and is able to be consumed up to three times per day. Amphetamines can be prescribed for ADHD. They are slightly more powerful than methylphenidates. These medications can temporarily raise the heart rate and blood pressure. People with preexisting health conditions are advised to inform their doctor if they suffer from any of these ailments.
The use of stimulants can result in addiction if they are misused, such as taking more than the prescribed dosage or mixing them with other substances or alcohol. Patients who take them according to the directions however, do not face an increased risk of addiction. There is evidence that using ADHD medication can even aid in preventing the use of substances by those who are at risk.
The FDA has approved various kinds of stimulant medications for treating ADHD. Generic medications are available, which means that the chemical formulation is identical. Your doctor will prescribe the one that works best for your child or yourself.
Your doctor will begin with a low dose, and observe how you or your child reacts before making adjustments to the dosage. Your doctor will then decide whether it is necessary to add a second medication or switch to another one.
Stimulants can cause side effects including dry mouth, decreased appetite and changes in mood or sleep patterns. Children and teens who use stimulants develop tics. These are sudden movements or noises such as eye blinking or throat clearing. Certain studies have shown that the use of stimulants can result in a slight decrease in height for some children and adolescents.
Non-stimulant medications are less effective than stimulants, but they can improve the ability to focus. They can take anywhere from up to four weeks to be noticeable. Non-stimulant medications reduce depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues in some people. They are typically prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant medication for ADHD.
Antidepressants can also be effective in treating ADHD. They alter the levels of serotonin inside the brain. Some, such as selective serotonin retake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been proven to increase impulsivity and focus in those suffering from ADHD.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medicines are rare and hard to come by. Your doctor may recommend antidepressants as stimulants for ADHD, or in place of stimulants if you suffer from undesirable side effects. They can also help improve memory and decrease aggression and impulsivity in some adults with 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 typically prescribed in combination with stimulants and could be more effective than stimulants by themselves.