10 Basics On Best Medication For ADHD You Didn't Learn In School

Best Medication For ADHD

Children and teenagers taking ADHD medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive, and are calmer. They also get on with schoolwork. Some experience a minor slowing in growth and could have an increased blood pressure or heart rate when taking these drugs.

The medications are available in a variety of forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available 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 medications help improve attention and focus by affecting certain neurotransmitters within the brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often called the "secretary of the brain" because it helps in the planning and organizing abilities.

Stimulants are available in both short-acting and long-acting dosages. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken 2 or 3 times per day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin, are among these. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, however they both work similarly in improving focus and attention. There are also extended-release versions of certain stimulant medications. These can be a better option because they last up to 12 hours and are usually taken every day. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquid to make drinks, while others are in pill form.

It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself.  how to treat adhd without medication in adults  will monitor how you react to different types of drugs and adjust the dosage as needed. The use of medication should be part of a complete treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little more time to work however it can help you feel in control, increase your impulsivity and concentration and increase your focus. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine the same as stimulants do, and therefore are safer to use over longer periods of time. These medications can also have less adverse effects, such as constipation, heartburn and reduced sexual drive. The first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor could prescribe additional medication from this category, including Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).

Off-label, non-stimulant antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant family like Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or if they cause too many adverse side effects.

Your doctor can also prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have an immediate effect however they can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve concentration over time. These medications are in a different class of drugs than other ones and may cause negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and decrease the risk of impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects like the ringing of your ears or changes in your vision.