Types of ADHD Medication
There are many medications that can be used to treat ADHD. It could take a while to find the one that is effective for your child or you.
Stimulant medications, like methylphenidate (Ritalin) can help reduce symptoms by increasing levels certain brain chemicals. Certain people who take these medications experience a sudden loss of energy, or even a "crash", when the drug wears out.
Short-acting
The use of medications to control behavior can benefit a lot of kids with ADHD. These drugs can help children learn, finish tasks and have better relationships. These medications can also decrease annoying or distracting behaviors. Children react to medications differently, which is why it's crucial for parents and physicians to collaborate to determine the right medication for each child. A health care team may recommend a combination of medication and other therapies, including counseling.
There are two kinds of medication that treat ADHD in teenagers, children and adults: stimulants as well as other medications. Stimulants act on brain chemicals that influence attention and impulse control. They are either short-acting (lasting a few hours) or long-acting (lasting all day). Some people experience side effects such as decreased appetite, sleep issues, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. The majority of doctors can identify medications that have little or no adverse effects for the majority of people.
The most popular medications used to treat ADHD are called stimulants, which include methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. They're regulated as Schedule II drugs by the Drug Enforcement Administration because they have a high risk for misuse or abuse if they are not taken as prescribed. Examples of methylphenidates are Ritalin and Concerta as well as Adderall and Dexedrine are examples of amphetamines. These medications can cause serious health problems when they are not used as prescribed. It is crucial to consult your physician prior to taking these medications.
Children younger than 6 years old shouldn't be given stimulants. Some kids may need an alternative medication or a lower dosage. Your doctor might also look for other conditions that could be causing your child's symptoms before prescribing a medication. They will ask you about your child's symptoms, routines, and family history. They will also conduct an exam to check for problems with vision or hearing. They may ask about your child's sleeping habits and diet. They'll be looking to find out whether your child suffers from allergies. The doctor will then issue the prescription and instructions on how to take it. You should visit your doctor regularly to determine whether the medicine is helping.
add in adults medication -acting
As a pair of glasses can sharpen vision and improve clarity, ADHD medications can help your brain focus. They boost levels of chemical important for focus and attention. There are two kinds that are stimulants (e.g. amphetamines or methylphenidates, etc.)), and non-stimulant medication.
Short- and long-acting stimulant meds are offered to people with ADHD. They work in 70-80% cases. Long-acting ADHD meds work in a series of phases, with a portion of the dose released immediately after taking an early morning pill and the remainder released throughout the day. They are simpler to remember, reduce the amount of pills you need to take every day and provide a consistent dose of medication when as compared to shorter-acting medication. They also cause fewer adverse effects and "ups and downs" than short-acting drugs.
Non-stimulant
Around 70 to 80 percent of adults and children can be treated with medications that can reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications enhance their ability to focus and control the impulsivity. They also aid in improving academic performance and social skills. In fact medication is the initial line of treatment for most people with ADHD. The medication can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as behavior therapy.
Drugs that stimulate, like Ritalin or Adderall, increase the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This increases the efficiency between nerves of messages, which helps to control the intensity of impulsivity and focus. Stimulant medicines are available in immediate-release, long-acting or extended-release tablets. The most well-known stimulants are Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. The instant-release version that is typically used in smaller doses throughout the day, gives quick symptom relief. The longer-acting and extended-release forms are typically taken daily and provide prolonged symptom relief.
The Food and Drug Administration has approved a variety of nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera is the most commonly prescribed nonstimulant drug. A newer medication, Qelbree is a different choice. These medications do not contain amphetamine or methylphenidate, and aren't controlled substances meaning they are less prone to misuse.
Other nonstimulant medicines are clonidine and guanfacine. These are more frequently prescribed to those suffering from a combination of Tourette syndrome/ADHD. It takes several weeks for them to decrease anxiety and tics. These medications can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
The effectiveness of medications isn't always guaranteed or well-tolerated. The first drug a person takes for ADHD may not be the right one or cause unwanted side effects that are unpleasant or intolerant. The doctor can adjust the dosage or switch to another medication.
Tell your doctor about all medications, including supplements and over-the-counter medications. This information can be used to prevent interactions between medications. It is also essential to let your doctor know of any changes in mood or behavior that may suggest a problem with the medication.