Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. They increase levels of the neurotransmitter hormones norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. This improves concentration and helps control impulsive behavior.
You can purchase them as a tablet or a patch. It is best to choose long-acting stimulant formulations, which provide medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medications for ADHD. They are fast-acting and reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 to 80% of children who take them. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals known as dopamine and norepinephrine. This increases focus and decreases tiredness. Methylphenidate (also known as methylphenidate, Ritalin, and Focalin) is a popular type of stimulant for ADHD. It is available in chewable and liquid tablet forms, and it can be taken up to three times per every day. Amphetamines are stronger than methylphenidates, are also sometimes prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, so those with existing ailments should inform their doctor.
If stimulant medicines are misused (e.g. taking them in excess of the prescribed dose or combined with alcohol or other substances) they can cause addiction. Those who take medications as prescribed do not run the risk of becoming addicted. There is evidence to suggest that using ADHD medication may aid in preventing substance abuse among people at risk.
best medication for adhd has approved various kinds of stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They are usually available in generic form, meaning that the chemical formula is identical to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe the medication that is best for you or your child.
The doctor will start with a small amount and observe how you or your child reacts before changing dosage. Your doctor will decide whether it is necessary add a second medicine or switch to another one.
Stimulants can cause side effects including dry mouth, less appetite, and changes in mood or sleep patterns. Certain adolescents and children who are taking them experience tics, which are abrupt movements or sounds resembling eye blinking or throat clearing. Some studies have shown that stimulants can cause a slight reduction in height for some children and teenagers.
Non-stimulant drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, however they can improve attention and impulsivity. It may take up to four weeks for the medication to begin working. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce depression, anxiety and other mental health issues in some people. Most often, they are prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant medication to treat ADHD.
Antidepressants are also effective in treating ADHD. They alter the levels of serotonin in the brain. Some, such as selective serotonin retake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been proven to improve focus and impulsivity in those suffering from ADHD.
adult adhd medication uk -approved non-stimulant medications are rare and infrequent. Your doctor might prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD in addition to or instead of stimulants, if adverse effects are too intense for you. Certain adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from antidepressants because they enhance memory and reduce impulsivity as well as aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are often prescribed in combination with stimulants and could be more effective than stimulants on their own.