Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medication can help control ADHD symptoms but it's not a cure for them. It may take some time to find the dosage and medication that works best for your child or you. The communication with your doctor should be honest and open.
Stimulants
These medications are the initial treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They increase levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication healthcare professionals prescribe to treat people suffering from ADHD. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which affect attention, focus, and movement. About 70-80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms after finding the right stimulant drug and dose.
As a first-line treatment doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates to kids and teens who have ADHD. They also may prescribe amphetamines that are more effective for adults and cause less adverse negative effects. Stimulants work on two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. People with heart conditions should be closely monitored while taking stimulants.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulants will experience some side effects. Most of the time, these side effects will disappear within several days or weeks. If adhd medication don't, speak to your doctor about changing the medication or looking for another one that works better for you or your child.
The most frequent stimulant side effects include the loss of appetite, difficulties sleeping, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Some people develop personality changes. Some people experience worsening anxiety or depression. This is why it's crucial to speak with an expert in mental health prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can trigger anxiety and an increase in blood pressure. They can also trigger headaches, stomachaches and loss of appetite. They can also result in an increased risk of a substance abuse. Stimulants are not habit-forming in the low doses used to treat ADHD however, they could create addiction if they are used in excessive doses.
Non-stimulant medication takes longer to work and does not last as much as stimulants. However, they do enhance focus and attention, and reduce impulsivity. Most of these medications are based on antidepressants and they work by affecting the brain chemical norepinephrine. They are available as a single medication or in conjunction with stimulants, especially when someone is suffering from depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance among students with ADHD who are treated with medication have revealed that they can achieve GPAs similar to their peers if they use good habits of study. A recent study showed that college students with ADHD who were prescribed medication to control symptoms improved their grades on average by an average of a letter grade.
The majority of medications used to treat ADHD fall into one of two classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Amphétamines are more likely be misused and develop dependence than methylphenidates. The latest, more effective atomoxetine (Wellbutrin) and bupropion have lower risks for misuse and dependency. Some people add with a long-acting drug taken once daily with an immediate-release dose between mid- to late afternoon to minimize ups and downs in their concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart lists the class of medication names, generic names, brand names, and length of action.