Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. These drugs increase the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine within your brain, which improves concentration and helps control an impulsive behavior.
They are available as tablets or patches (lisdexamfetamine). Long-acting stimulant formulations are preferable because they supply medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They work quickly and reduce ADHD symptoms for 70-80% of the children who use them. They work by increasing the levels of brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces fatigue. Methylphenidate is a stimulant that is commonly used to treat ADHD. It comes in chewable and liquid tablet forms, and it can be taken two to three times a every day. Amphetamines are often prescribed for ADHD. They are slightly more powerful than methylphenidates. These medications can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure and heart rate, so those with existing medical conditions should consult their doctor.
The use of stimulants can result in addiction if they are misused, which includes taking more than the prescribed dosage or mixing them with other substances or alcohol. Those who take the prescribed doses are not at risk of an increased risk of becoming addicted. There is some evidence that using ADHD medication can even aid in preventing the use of substances by people who are at risk.
The FDA has approved a variety of stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They are typically available in generic form, which means the chemical formulation is similar to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe whichever medication works best for your child or you.
Your doctor will begin with a small dose and observe how you or your child reacts before adjusting dosage. Then your doctor will decide whether you'll need to change to a different medicine or add a different one.
Stimulants can have side effects, such as a dry mouth, a decreased appetite, and changes in sleep or mood. medication for adhd and teens who use stimulants develop tics. These are sudden movements or noises like eye blinking or a throat clearing. Some studies have found that stimulants can cause a slight decrease in height for certain adolescents and children.
Non-stimulant drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, yet they can improve impulsivity and attention. They may take three to four weeks before they show a noticeable improvement. Non-stimulant medicines can reduce depression, anxiety and other mental health problems in certain people. They are typically prescribed in combination with a stimulant medication to treat ADHD.
Antidepressants can also be beneficial in treating ADHD. adhd and medication work on the levels of serotonin that are present in the brain, and some such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been proven to increase impulsivity and focus in people who suffer from ADHD.
There aren't a lot of non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved for treating ADHD. Your doctor may suggest antidepressants along with a stimulant for ADHD, or in place of stimulants if you suffer from intolerable adverse effects. Some people with ADHD might also benefit from antidepressants as they improve memory and reduce impulsivity as well as aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are typically prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant, and can be more effective than stimulants on their own.