Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
The use of medication can help manage ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for them. It may take some time to determine the right medication and dosage that work best for your child or you. Your doctor's communication must be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the first treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common medications prescribed by healthcare professionals to treat people suffering from ADHD. These medications increase levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. Around 70-80% children and adults with ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms when they find the right stimulant and dose.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for kids and teens with ADHD. Amphetamines are also prescribed because they are more effective and have fewer adverse effects in adults. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. concerta adhd medication should be monitored closely when taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants will experience adverse effects. However, the majority times these side effects will disappear after a few weeks or less. If they don't, speak to your doctor about changing the medication or finding an alternative that is better for you or your child.
The most frequent side effects of stimulants include weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and having trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Certain people experience personality changes. Certain people may experience worsening of anxiety or depression. This is why it's crucial to speak with a mental health professional prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants increase blood pressure and heart rate, which may make people feel uneasy or anxious. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches and loss of appetite. They can also result in an increased risk of substance abuse. In small doses, stimulants used to treat ADHD are not habit-forming. However the full report can be addictive if they are misused or in high doses.
Non-stimulant medications require longer to get started and don't last longer than stimulants, but they can improve focus and attention, and also reduce impulsivity. Most of these medications are based on antidepressants, and they work by affecting the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed as a single or in combination with stimulants. This is especially true when a person also suffers from depression, anxiety or ADHD.
Students with ADHD who are treated with medication can achieve GPAs that are similar to their peers if they adhere to good study habits. A recent study revealed that college students with ADHD who took medication to control symptoms improved their grades on average by one letter grade.
The majority of drugs for ADHD are classified into one of two classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Amphetamines have a higher potential for abuse and dependence than methylphenidates. The newer, longer acting atomoxetine (Wellbutrin), and bupropion are less prone for abuse and dependence. Some people take a daily long-acting medication with an immediate release dose in the late afternoon to lower their fluctuations in concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). the full report following chart outlines the class of medication, brand name, generic name, and duration of action.