Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medicine can help to manage ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for them. It could take some time to find the perfect medication and dosage for you or your child. The communication with your doctor should be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial treatment option for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed prescriptions by doctors to treat people suffering from ADHD. These drugs increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which impact concentration, attention and movement. Around 70% to 80 percent of children and adults suffering from ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms when they discover the right stimulant and dose.
As a first-line treatment doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates to kids and teens who have ADHD. adhd medication pregnancy are also prescribed, as they are more effective and have less negative side effects for adults. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. People with heart issues should be monitored closely when taking stimulants.
Many people, both adults and children, who use stimulants will experience some adverse effects. Most of the time these adverse effects will subside within a few days or weeks. If they don't, consult your doctor about changing the medication or locating a different one that works better for you or your child.
The most frequent side effects of stimulants include the loss of appetite, difficulties sleeping, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Some people experience changes in their personality. Others can have an increase in anxiety or depression. This is why it is important to talk to a mental health professional before taking stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can raise blood pressure and heart rate, which can make some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also trigger stomachaches, headaches and a decrease in appetite. They also can lead to an increased risk of a substance abuse. The stimulants aren't habit-forming in the low doses that are used to treat ADHD However, they can create addiction if they are misused or taken in large doses.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to work and does not last as long as stimulants. However, they can enhance focus and attention, and reduce impulsivity. A majority of these drugs are based on antidepressants, and they affect the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed as a single medication or in combination with stimulants, particularly when a person has depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Students with ADHD who are treated with medication can achieve GPAs that are in line with their peers if they adhere to good study habits. In fact the results of a recent study revealed that, in a study of more than 90 college students with ADHD, those who were prescribed medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by an average of a letter grade.
Most medications for ADHD fall into one of two drug classes: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphétamines are more prone to be misused and develop dependence than methylphenidates. The more recent, longer-acting atomoxetine (Wellbutrin), and bupropion have lower risks for abuse and dependence. Some people take a single dose of a long-acting drug that has an immediate release dose in the 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 class of medication, the brand name, generic name, and duration of action.