Types of ADHD Medication
The first class that doctors prescribe for ADHD are stimulants. These drugs increase the activity of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine.
Stimulant pills are available in short- and long-acting dosages. The long-acting form of these pills allows for continuous use throughout the day. This minimizes the side effects that are associated with the ups and downs of drug levels.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common and generally the most effective type of treatment for ADHD. Around 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD benefit from stimulants. They accomplish this by increasing brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine, which influence your ability to concentrate and pay attention. They are available in a variety forms, including pills as well as extended-release (ER) tablets, and orally disintegrating tablets. Your doctor will recommend one that's right for you. They'll take into consideration whether you'd like to take the stimulant along with food, its rate of action, as well as any potential adverse effects.
The most frequently prescribed stimulants for ADHD include Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin and Daytrana. They belong to a category known as methylphenidates. This group also includes atomoxetine Strattera Tenex Intuniv Kapvay and Tenex.
They aren't deemed to be addictive in the doses used to treat ADHD. best adhd medication for adults can cause problems such as a loss of appetite, sleep problems and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. They also are able to interact with certain medications and medical conditions.
People with ADHD who are taking stimulants must be closely monitored by their doctor. It can take time to determine the right dosage and kind of medication for every person. It's important to communicate openly with your doctor and report any negative changes or side effects, like an abrupt change in mood or appetite, and how the medication is working for you or your child.
Since the 1960s, stimulant medications are used to treat ADHD. They are safe when taken in the prescribed dosage. They are effective for 70-80% of adults and children and can help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. symptoms. They can decrease fidgeting, interruptions, and enhance interpersonal and learning skills.
The majority of children and adults will need to take stimulants throughout their lives, although some may be able cut down or stop them. Medications are often combined with other forms of treatment including behavioral therapy and training for skills.
Nonstimulant medications can be beneficial when stimulants don't work or cause unwanted adverse effects. They can enhance the way stimulants function and aid you or your child focus on impulses, control them, and pay attention. These drugs, which are usually part of a class known as alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists, were used "off label" to treat ADHD for a long, long time years before FDA approval.
Medications in this class are the guanfacine, clonidine and a brand new medication known as atomoxetine (Strattera). These drugs are in another class of drugs than the methylphenidates. They are less likely to cause adverse reactions, but they do not work as quickly. These drugs boost the activity of norepinephrine within the brain, which is responsible for controlling emotions and paying attention. best adhd medication for adults can take between four and six weeks to start working, but they often see improvement within a few days. They can be used alone or in combination with stimulants to enhance how they interact.