Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medication can help control ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for them. It can take some time to find the dosage and medication that works best for you or your child. Communication with your doctor must be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the first treatment option for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most popular medications prescribed by healthcare professionals to help people with ADHD. They increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect focus, attention and movement. About 70-80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms after finding the right stimulant and dosage.
Doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for children and teens suffering from ADHD. They may also prescribe amphetamines that are more efficient in adults and have less side consequences. Stimulants alter two brain chemicals: norepinephrine, and dopamine. Heart-related problems sufferers must be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants will experience side effects. Most of the time, these side effects will go away within a few days or weeks. If they don't go away talk to your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that works better.
The most common side effects of stimulants include the loss of appetite, difficulties sleeping, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become more withdrawn, listless or rigid, or they may show obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Others may experience an increase in depression or anxiety, which is why it is crucial to speak with a mental health professional before beginning stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants can create anxiety and a rise in blood pressure. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches and a decrease in appetite. Read the Full Guide can lead to an increased risk of a substance abuse. They aren't habit-forming when they are in the small doses used to treat ADHD however, they could create addiction if they are used in excessive doses.
Non-stimulant drugs require longer to get started and do not last longer than stimulants, however they can increase attention and focus and reduce impulsivity. These medications are mostly made up of antidepressants and work on norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They can be prescribed by themselves or together with stimulants. This is especially true when a person also suffers from depression, anxiety or ADHD.
Studies of academic performance among students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have shown that they can earn GPAs comparable to those of their peers, if they follow a good set of study habits. A recent study showed that college students with ADHD who were treated with medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by an average of a letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphétamines are more prone for abuse and dependence than methylphenidates. However, the more modern longer-acting atomoxetine as well as bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower dangers of misuse and dependence. Some people take a daily long-acting drug that has an immediate-release dosage in the late afternoon to lower their fluctuation in concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart outlines the medication class, brand name, generic name and length of action.