Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to concentrate more effectively, have less impulsive, and feel more calm. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some experience a minor slowing of growth and experience an increase in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medicines.
There are a variety of medicines that include liquids, tablets patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most popular stimulant. It is available in three forms: immediate-release, extended-release, and sustained-release.
Stimulants
One of the best medications for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These drugs enhance focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. Recommended Web page are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex which is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it aids with organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants are available in short-acting as well as long-acting dosages. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a every day. These include methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines may be a bit stronger and last longer than methylphenidates, but both work in the same way to improve attention and focus. There are extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. They are a good option because they last up to 12 hours and are typically taken daily. Some of these medicines are powders that is mixed with liquid to create drinks, while others are in pill form.
It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will monitor your reaction to different kinds of medications and adjust the dosage if necessary. The use of medication should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to begin working, but can help you feel more in control and boost your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These medications do not alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way stimulants do. They can therefore be employed for a longer duration. They also have less negative effects, including heartburn, constipation and a lessened sex drive. Strattera is the first of these drugs that was approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of the selective reuptake of norepinephrine. Your doctor could prescribe additional medicines from this class such as guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant family such as Tofranil (imipramine). adhd in adults medication are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many adverse side effects.
Your doctor may also prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications do not have an immediate impact however they can reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a distinct drug class from the other choices and may cause certain side effects like headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor may also recommend the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but usually not severe adverse effects, such as ringing in the ears or changes in vision.