The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Best Medication For ADHD
The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Best Medication For ADHD
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Best Medication For ADHD
Children and teenagers taking ADHD medication tend to focus better, be less impulsive and more relaxed. They also do better with schoolwork. Some people may experience a slight slowdown in their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure when taking these medications.
There are many different types of medication that include liquids, tablets, patches, and capsules (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most well-known stimulant. It is available in three forms: immediate release, extended-release and sustained-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. These drugs aid in improving focus and attention by affecting certain neurotransmitters within the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex region, which is often referred to as the brain's "secretary" because it assists with organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak in 30 to 45 minutes, and must be taken twice or three times per day. They include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines may be a bit more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates, however they work in the same way to increase concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release forms. They can be a better alternative since they last from up to 12 hours, and are usually taken once per day. Some of these medicines are a powder that is mixed with liquid to make drinks, while others are in pill form.
Finding the right medication may take a while. Your doctor will watch how you respond to the various types of drugs and adjust the dosage as needed. The use of medications should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little longer to take effect however it can help you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your 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 be less prone to negative effects, including heartburn, constipation and a decreased sexual drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor could prescribe additional medication from this category, including the guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry like Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat ADHD. These drugs are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or if they cause too many side effects.
Your doctor may prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have a direct effect however they can reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a different class than the other options and may cause some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects like hearing loss or website changes in vision.