Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
The use of medication can help manage ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for the symptoms. It can take some time to determine the right medication and dosage that work best for your child or you. Communication with your doctor must be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the first option for treating children and adults with ADHD. They increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most popular prescriptions by doctors to help people with ADHD. These medications increase levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. About 70% to 80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms after finding the correct stimulant drug and dosage.
As a first-line treatment doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates to children and teens with ADHD. Amphetamines can also be prescribed, because they are more effective and have fewer 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.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulants may experience some side effects. Most of the time these side effects will disappear within several days or weeks. If they do not go away, speak to your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that performs better.
The most frequent effects of stimulants are an increase in appetite, sleeplessness, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Certain people experience personality changes. Others can have an increase in depression or anxiety, which is the reason it is essential to consult with a mental health professional before beginning stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants can cause anxiety and increase blood pressure. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches and loss of appetite. They can also increase the risk of using substances. In small doses, stimulants used to treat ADHD do not create a habit. However buy adhd medication online can be addictive if misused or in high doses.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to work and does not last as long as stimulants. However, they do improve focus and attention and reduce the impulsivity. These medications are mostly built on antidepressants, and they work on norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They can be prescribed as a standalone medication or in conjunction with stimulants, particularly when someone is suffering from depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have found that they can attain GPAs similar to their peers, provided they adhere to good study habits. A recent study revealed that college students with ADHD who took medication to treat their symptoms increased their grades by one letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphétamines are more prone for dependence and abuse than methylphenidates. But the newer longer-acting atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower risk of misuse and dependence. Some people take a daily long-acting drug with an immediate-release dosage in the afternoon to reduce their concentration fluctuations. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart lists the class of medication, generic name, brand name and length of action.