Why We Enjoy Best Medication For ADHD (And You Should, Too!)
Best Medication For ADHD
The majority of children and teens who take ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel more calm and are able to get on with their school work. Some suffer a slight slowing in growth and could have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.
The medications are available in a variety of forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most popular stimulant. It is available in three forms: immediate release, extended-release, and sustained-release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These medications improve concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken 2 or 3 times a throughout the day. These include methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines may be a bit more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates however, they both function in the same way to increase attention and focus. There are also extended-release versions of a few stimulant medications. They are a better option because they last between 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken once a day. Some of these are a powder that is mixed with liquid to create a drink, while others are in pill form.
It can take time to find the right medication for you or your child. Your doctor will monitor how you react to different kinds of drugs and alter the dosage as required. The use of medications should be done as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that will include a combination of behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a more time to work however it can help you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration and help you concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same as stimulants do, which means they can be more secure to use over an extended period of time. They can also be less prone to negative effects, including heartburn, constipation and a lessened sex drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medications within this category.
There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are available off-label to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past, such as Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. Doctors will only recommend these medications if stimulants and other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many adverse consequences.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These drugs do not have a direct effect however they can help reduce the impulsivity of people and increase concentration over time. These medications belong to a different class of drugs from other ones and may cause negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. add adult medications may also recommend a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin) which isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and decrease impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects, such as ringing or changes in vision.