Best Medication For ADHD
Children and teenagers taking ADHD medication tend to focus better, be less impulsive, and are more calm. They also do better with schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowing of growth and be experiencing an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these drugs.
They are available in various forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These drugs enhance concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex which is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it helps with organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants are available both in short-acting as well as long-acting dosages. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times per day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, but they both work similar ways to improve focus and attention. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release forms. These can be a better option since they last between 8 to 12 hours, and are usually taken daily. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to create drinks, 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 response to different types of medications and adjust the dosage as needed. The use of medication should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to work however it can help you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration and increase your concentration. These medications don't affect dopamine and norepinephrine the same way that stimulants do, and therefore can be more secure to use for an extended period of time. They can also be less prone to side effects, such as heartburn, constipation and a lessened sexual drive. Strattera is the first of these medications that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of selective reuptake. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both drugs within this category.
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant check here that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past like Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or if they cause too many side effects.
Your doctor can also prescribe the atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These drugs do not have a direct effect however they can help reduce impulsivity and improve concentration over time. They're in a different drug class from the other choices and may cause some side effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also recommend a low dose of an antidepressant known as bupropion (Wellbutrin) that is not a FDA-approved treatment for ADHD however it can help increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but not usually serious, side effects, including hearing ringing, or changes in vision.