Types of ADHD Medication
There are a myriad of medications used to treat ADHD. It could take a while to find the one that is effective for your child or you.
Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate, or Ritalin help to reduce symptoms by increasing levels of certain brain chemical. Some people who use these medications experience an immediate loss of energy, or even experiencing a "crash" after the drug wears off.
Short-acting
Many children suffering from ADHD can be helped by medicines that help control their behavior. These medications can aid children in learning to complete tasks, and develop better relationships. They can also cut down on irritating or distracting behavior. Children react to the medications differently, so it's essential that parents and doctors collaborate to determine the best medication for each child. A health care team might suggest a combination of medicines and other treatments, including counseling.
There are two kinds of medication that treat ADHD in adolescents, children, and adults: stimulants and other medications. The stimulants affect brain chemicals that affect attention and impulse control. They are either short-acting (lasting only a few hours) or long-acting (lasting all day). Certain sufferers experience adverse effects like decreased appetite, sleep issues and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. Doctors are usually able to find a medicine that has few or no adverse effects for the majority of people.
Stimulants are the most commonly used drugs used to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidates, amphetamines, and other stimulants. The Drug Enforcement Administration regulates them as Schedule II drugs because they are high-risk for misuse and abuse if used in a manner not prescribed. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are just a few examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These drugs can cause serious health problems if they are not taken according to the prescription. It is crucial to consult with your doctor prior to taking these medicines.
Stimulants should not be used for children who are younger than. Some children may require a different medication, or a lower dosage. Before prescribing medication your doctor will check for other conditions that may be the cause of the symptoms in your child. They will inquire about your child's symptoms, routines, and family history. They will also do examinations to look for problems with hearing or vision. They may also inquire about your child's diet and sleeping patterns. They'll want to know whether your child suffers from allergies. They'll then give you a prescription and instructions for taking it. You should visit your doctor often to see whether the medicine is helping.
Long-acting
ADHD medications can help you focus your mind, just as a pair glasses can help sharpen your vision. They boost levels of certain chemicals which are crucial for focus and attention. adhd medications for adults of medications are stimulants (e.g., amphetamines or methylphenidates) and non-stimulant medications.
Long- and short-acting stimulant meds are available for people suffering from ADHD. They work in 70-80% of cases. Long-acting ADHD medications work in phases with some of the dose released right after taking the morning pill, and the remainder released throughout the day. They can decrease the number of pills needed to take daily and are more easy to remember and provide a more consistent dosage of medication than short-acting medications. They also have fewer side-effects and "ups & downs" in comparison to short-acting medicines.
Non-stimulant
About 70% to 80 percent of children and adults can be treated using medications that can reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications improve their ability to focus and control the impulsivity. They also help improve social skills and school performance. In fact medication is often the first treatment option for those who suffer from ADHD. The medication can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as behavior therapy.
Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin or Adderall, increase the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This increases the effectiveness of the communication between nerves that help to regulate impulsivity and focus. Stimulant medicines are available in immediate-release, long-acting, or extended-release tablets. The most well-known stimulants include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. The instant-release variant that is taken in small doses throughout the day to provide quick relief from symptoms, is usually used in smaller doses. The longer-acting and extended-release forms are typically taken once a day and provide longer treatment of symptoms.
The Food and Drug Administration has approved a few nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD. The most commonly prescribed nonstimulant medication is Atomoxetine (Strattera). A newer medication, called Qelbree is a different option. These medicines don't contain methylphenidate, amphetamine or other controlled substances. They are less likely to be a source of abuse because they aren't controlled.
Other nonstimulant medicines include Guanfacine and Clonidine. They are prescribed more frequently for those suffering from a mix of Tourette syndrome and ADHD. It takes a few weeks for them to decrease anxiety and tics. These medications can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
The effectiveness of medications isn't always guaranteed or well-accepted. The first drug is prescribed to a person with ADHD may not be the most effective or trigger unpleasant or unpalatable adverse effects. The doctor can adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication.
Tell your doctor about all medications including supplements and over-the counter medicines. This information helps prevent interactions between medications. It is also crucial to let your healthcare professional know about any changes in behavior or mood that could indicate a problem with the medication.