Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive, and feel more relaxed. They also have a better time with schoolwork. medications for adhd suffer a slight slowing of growth and have an increased heart rate or blood pressure while taking these medicines.
Medications are available in different forms like capsules, tablets liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available in immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release dextroamphetamine and extended-release amphetamine salts.
Stimulants
One of the best medications for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These drugs enhance concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often called the "secretary of the brain" because it helps in organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants are available both in short-acting and long-acting dosages. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times a every day. Amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphetamines are more potent and last longer than methylphenidates however they work in the same way to improve attention and focus. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release forms. They are a better option because they last for 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken daily. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquids to make a beverage, while others are pills.
It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will observe how you respond to the various types of drugs and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medicines should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little more time to work, but it can help you feel in control, increase your concentration and impulsivity and help you concentration. These medications don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way stimulants do. They are therefore able to be employed for a longer duration. These medications can also be less prone to side effects such as constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera and is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both medicines in this class.
There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are available off-label to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant family, such as Tofranil (imipramine). These drugs are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or if they cause too many adverse side effects.
Your doctor can prescribe the atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These drugs don't have an immediate impact however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs from the others and can trigger negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and decrease impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects such as ringing or changes in vision.