Best Medication For ADHD
The majority of children and teens who take ADHD medication find they concentrate better and are less impulsive. They feel more calm and are able to get on with their school work. 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 medications that include liquids, tablets, patches, and capsules (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine dextroamphetamine and extended-release amphetamine salts.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that can be effective in treating ADHD. These medications improve focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex which is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it helps in the planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken two or three times per day. Amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, but they all work in similar ways to improve attention and focus. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release versions. They are a better option because they last between 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken once a day. Some of these medications are a powder that is mixed with liquid to make a drink, while others are pills.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will be able to monitor your reaction to different kinds of medication and alter the dosage if necessary. here Medications should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which will include a combination of behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little more time to work, but it can help you feel in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your concentration. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do. They can therefore be utilized for a longer period of time. They also have less adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn and lessened sexual drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera, and it's a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor might prescribe other medicines from this class such as guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past like Tofranil(imipramine) are prescribed to treat ADHD. These drugs are only prescribed by doctors if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or if they cause too many adverse side effects.
Your doctor can also prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have an immediate effect however they can reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve concentration over time. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs compared to the others and can cause negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It can have some unpleasant but usually not severe adverse effects, like hearing ringing or changes in vision.