Best Medication For ADHD Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take starting adhd medication adults medication tend to concentrate better, be less impulsive, and feel more calm. They also do better with schoolwork. Some experience a minor slowing of growth and be experiencing an increase in heart rate or blood pressure while taking these medicines.
The medications are available in a variety of forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most well-known stimulant. It comes in three forms: immediate-release extended-release and sustained-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are one of the classes of drugs that is effective in treating ADHD. These drugs aid in improving concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters within the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex region, which is often called the brain's "secretary" because it helps with organizing and planning abilities.
Stimulants are available both in short-acting and long-acting dosages. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken two or three times a 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 increase attention and focus. There are also extended-release versions of some stimulant medications. They are a better option because they last for 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken once a day. Some of these are powders that is mixed with liquid to make a drink, while others are pills.
Finding the right medication can take a bit of time. Your doctor will monitor how does medication for adhd work you react to different kinds of medications and will adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medicines should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a more time to work but it can make you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your concentration. These medications don't affect dopamine and norepinephrine the same as stimulants do, so they can be safer to use over an extended period of time. They can also be less prone to side effects, such as constipation, heartburn and lessened sex drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera and is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor may prescribe adhd medication other medication from this category which include the guanfacine (intuniv adhd medication) and clonidine (Kapvay).
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry like Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat safest adhd medication. These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or if they have too many adverse effects.
Your doctor can 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 category than the other options and may cause some side effects such as headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor might also recommend taking a low dose of an antidepressant called bupropion (Wellbutrin) which isn't an FDA-approved treatment for ADHD however it can help increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects, such as hearing loss or changes in vision.
