ADHD Medications
The use of medication is an integral part of treatment for ADHD. They don't cure the disorder, but they can assist in controlling symptoms and enhance a person's ability to perform.
The most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase the activity of the brain in areas that control the behavior, attention, and other aspects.
Medication can cause adverse effects, such as stomach upset and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate and the tics. These side effects are usually mild or moderate.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. These drugs increase brain chemicals like norepinephrine as well as dopamine. This helps people concentrate and decreases the impulsive behavior. They can also cause temporary side effects, such as loss of appetite and an increase in heart rate or blood pressure. These medicines are able to rapidly improve symptoms of ADHD in most people, however they are not able to solve the problem. Your doctor will prescribe a medication based on your ADHD assessment results and your tolerance to the adverse effects of the drug.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two most common types of stimulant medications. adhd medication list Iampsychiatry and Ritalin are methylphenidates. There are short-acting versions of these drugs that you take as needed, and longer-lasting versions like Adderall XR and Vyvanse that are taken daily.
These medications are the most common and effective treatments for ADHD however, they do have a high potential for misuse, abuse, and addiction. Some people who don't suffer from ADHD utilize these medications to feel more alert or to lose weight. They might also take them to get a "buzz" or a "high." When people with ADHD take these medications correctly under the supervision of their healthcare provider, they do not become addicted.
Finding the right stimulant medicine for your child or you can take time. Always inform your doctor if you experience any adverse side effects. Your doctor will then alter the dosage of your medicine and determine which is best for you.
Side effects of stimulant medications for ADHD include loss of appetite as well as trouble sleeping. They can also cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. They can also cause irritability or nervousness, especially when taken in higher doses. These side effects are usually noticed in the first few weeks or days of taking the medication, and will diminish as your body becomes accustomed to it.
Your doctor will need to take into account your other health issues before prescribing a medicine. For instance, if you have an history of stroke or heart disease, your doctor will probably not prescribe a stimulant. The same applies when you suffer from anxiety or depression. In these instances, your doctor will prescribe a non-stimulant medication or a stimulant that is combined with a calming medicine like Strattera(atomoxetine) to increase the efficacy of both.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to take effect, but are less likely than stimulants to be misused or used in a way that is harmful. They are usually prescribed when stimulants do not work or have unpleasant adverse side effects.
Unlike most other medications, ADHD medicines are not available over-the-counter. Vitamins and minerals claimed to treat ADHD are not backed by science and may interfere with prescription drugs. Your doctor may recommend specific dietary changes to aid in managing ADHD symptoms and decrease the need for medication. Your doctor might suggest the use of behavior therapy or training to help you better manage your impulses and stay organized. Combining treatment is often the most effective strategy.