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Types of ADHD Medication
There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. It could take a while to find the one that is effective for your child or yourself.
Stimulant drugs, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) can help reduce symptoms by boosting levels of certain brain chemicals. Some people who take these drugs experience a sudden drop in energy and an "crash" after the drug wears off.
Short-acting
Many kids with ADHD can be helped with medications which help them manage their behavior. These medications can aid children in learning, finish tasks and have better relationships. These drugs can also reduce distracting or annoying behaviors. Children respond to the medicines differently, so it's important for parents and physicians to collaborate to determine a medication that works best for each child. A health care team may recommend a combination of medication and other treatments including counseling.
There are two types of medications that treat ADHD in teenagers, children and adults: stimulants and other medications. The stimulants alter brain chemicals that influence the ability to focus and control impulses. They can be short-acting (lasting just a few hours) or long-acting (lasting all day). Certain sufferers experience side effects like a decrease in appetite, sleep issues and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Most doctors can pinpoint medications that have little or no side effects for most people.
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are referred to as stimulants and include methylphenidates and amphetamines. medication for adults with add regulates them as Schedule II drugs because they have a high risk of misuse and abuse if they are taken not as prescribed. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are all examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These medicines can have serious health issues if they're not used as directed, so it's important to talk to your doctor prior to starting these medications.
Children younger than 6 years shouldn't be given stimulants. Some children may require a different medication or a lower dose. Before prescribing a medication your doctor will look for other conditions which could be causing the symptoms of your child. You will be asked about your child's symptoms, habits and behavior as well as their family history. They will also do examinations to look for problems with vision or hearing. They might inquire about your child’s sleep and diet. They'll be looking to determine if your child is suffering from allergies. They'll then give you the prescription and instructions to take it. You should visit your doctor regularly to determine if the medicine is helping.
Long-acting
ADHD medications can aid in focusing your brain the same way a pair of glasses can improve your vision. They increase levels of chemical that are important for focus and attention. There are two types of stimulants (e.g. amphetamines, the methylphenidates) and non-stimulant drugs.
Stimulant medications, which are effective for 70-80% of the people who suffer from ADHD, come in both short- and long-acting forms. Long-acting ADHD medication works in a series of phases, with a portion of the dose released immediately after taking an early morning pill and the rest released throughout the day. They are simpler to remember, reduce the number of pills you have to take daily and provide a consistent dose of medication compared to shorter-acting medications. They also have fewer adverse effects and "ups & downs" when compared to short-acting drugs.
Non-stimulant
Medications ease ADHD symptoms for around 70% to 80% of children and adults, enhancing their ability to concentrate and control their impulsivity. They can also enhance their school performance as well as social skills. In fact, medication is often the first treatment option for those who suffer from ADHD. They can be used by themselves or with other treatments such as behavior therapy.
Stimulant medicines, such as Ritalin and Adderall help by increasing the levels of neurotransmitter hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This improves the efficiency of messages sent between nerves and helps people concentrate and control their impulsivity. Stimulant medicines are available in immediate-release, long-acting or extended-release tablets. The most well-known stimulants include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. The instant-release variant that is administered in small doses throughout the day to provide quick symptom relief, is typically taken in smaller doses. The extended-release and longer-acting forms are usually taken once daily and provide prolonged symptom relief.
The Food and Drug Administration has approved a number of nonstimulant drugs to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine, a.k.a Strattera, is the most commonly prescribed nonstimulant drug. A newer medication, Qelbree is a different choice. These medications don't contain methylphenidate, amphetamine or other controlled substances. They have a lower potential for misuse because they're not controlled.
Other nonstimulant medicines are Guanfacine and Clonidine. medications for adhd in adults are more likely to be prescribed to those who suffer from a combination of ADHD and Tourette syndrome. It takes several weeks for them to reduce anxiety and tics. These medications can raise heart rate and blood pressure.
Medications aren't always effective or well-accepted. The first medication a person takes for ADHD may not be the best choice or could cause side effects that are bothersome or unpalatable. The doctor may adjust the dosage or switch to another medication.
Inform your doctor about all medications, including supplements and over-the-counter medications. This information will be used to avoid interactions between different medications. It is also essential to let your healthcare professional know about any changes in your mood or behavior that may indicate a problem with the medication.