Best Medication For ADHD
Children and teenagers taking ADHD medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive, and feel more relaxed. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some may experience a slight slowing of growth and have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.
They are available in various forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). medication for adult adhd used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It comes in three forms: immediate-release sustained-release and extended-release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs improve concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex which is often called the brain's "secretary" because it aids with planning and organizational abilities.
Stimulants are available in both short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times per every day. These include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines may be a bit more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates however they work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. There are also extended-release versions of certain stimulant medications. These can be a better alternative since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are usually taken daily. Some of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquid to make drinks, while others are pills.
Finding the right medicine can take a while. Your doctor will observe how you react to different types of drugs and adjust the dosage as needed. Drugs should only be used as part of a complete treatment plan that will include behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a longer to take effect however it can help you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your focus. These medications don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine like stimulants do. They are therefore able to be employed for a longer duration. They also have less adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn and lessened sex drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera which is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medicines within this category.
Off-label, non-stimulant antidepressants can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant family like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only suggest these drugs in cases where stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many adverse consequences.
Your doctor can prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications do not have a direct effect, but they can help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. These medications belong to a different class of drugs than the others and can trigger negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and decrease the risk of impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but usually not severe side effects, such as ringing in the ears or changes in vision.