Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medication can control ADHD symptoms, but they won't cure it. It could take some time to determine the best dosage and medication for you or your child. Your doctor's communication should be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial line of treatment for children and adults suffering from ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. visit my web site increase levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. About 70-80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms after finding the right stimulant and dose.
As a first-line treatment doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates to kids and teens who have ADHD. They may also prescribe amphetamines, which are more effective for adults and cause fewer side negative effects. Stimulants alter two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. Heart-related problems sufferers must be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
Many children and adults who take stimulants may experience some side effects. Most of the time, these side effects will go away within some days or weeks. If they don't disappear, speak to your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that works better.
The most commonly reported stimulant side effects include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and having trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Some people develop personality changes. Some may experience an increase in anxiety or depression. This is why it is important to speak with an expert in mental health before beginning stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants can trigger anxiety and a rise in blood pressure. They can also cause headaches, stomachaches and loss of appetite. They can also lead to an increased risk of addiction. In small doses, stimulants used to treat ADHD do not create a habit. However they can be addictive if misused or used in large doses.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to begin working and do not last as long as stimulants, but they can improve focus and attention, and also reduce the risk of impulsivity. These medications are mostly made up of antidepressants and work on norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They can be prescribed as a standalone medication or in combination with stimulants, particularly when a person has depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance among students with ADHD who are treated with medication have found that they can achieve GPAs that are comparable to their peers, if they adhere to good study habits. In fact, a recent study showed that in a group of more than 90 college students who had ADHD those who used medication to manage their symptoms had their grades improved by an average of one letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two drug classes amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphetamines have a higher potential for abuse and dependence than methylphenidates. The more recent, longer-acting atomoxetine (Wellbutrin) and bupropion are less prone for abuse and dependence. Some people take a once-daily long-acting medication with an immediate release dose in the afternoon to decrease their concentration fluctuations. 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, generic name, brand name, and duration of action.