Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medicines can manage ADHD symptoms, but they will not cure it. It can take some time to determine the right medication and dosage that work best for your child or you. Communication that is honest and open with your doctor is crucial.
Stimulants
These drugs are the first treatment for both children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. These drugs increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which affect the ability to focus, attention and movement. About 70% to 80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms after finding the correct stimulant drug and dose.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine and Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for children and teens suffering from ADHD. Amphetamines can also be prescribed, because they are more effective and have less side-effects in adults. Stimulants influence two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. People with heart conditions should be closely monitored while taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants will experience adverse effects. Most of the time these side effects will go away within a few days or weeks. If they don't, speak to your doctor about changing the medication or locating an alternative that is better for you or your child.
Some of the most common side effects of stimulants include an increase in appetite, difficulty sleeping and difficulty staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Certain people experience personality changes. Some people can experience a worsening depression or anxiety. This is why it's important to talk to an expert in mental health prior to starting stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can create anxiety and increase blood pressure. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches, and a decrease in appetite. They can also result in an increased risk of substance abuse. In small doses stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD are not habit-forming. However they can be addictive if they are misused or taken at high doses.
Non-stimulant drugs require longer to get started and don't last as long as stimulants, however, they can help improve concentration and focus, and decrease the risk of impulsivity. A majority of these drugs are based on antidepressants and they act on the brain chemical norepinephrine. They are available as a stand-alone medication or as a combination with stimulants, particularly when someone is suffering from depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance among students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have revealed that they can earn GPAs similar to their peers, provided they use good habits of study. A recent study showed that college students with ADHD who were prescribed medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by an average of a letter grade.
Most medications for ADHD are classified into one of two classes: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphetamines have more potential for abuse and dependence than methylphenidates. mouse click the following webpage , longer acting atomoxetine (Wellbutrin) and bupropion have less risk for abuse and dependence. Some people take a long-acting medication taken once daily with an immediate-release dose during the mid to late afternoon, to minimize ups and downs in their concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart lists the medication class, generic name, brand names, and length of the action.