ADHD Medication and Over the Counter ADHD Medication
There are several prescription ADHD medications that help improve concentration, impulsivity and attention. Most fall under the methylphenidate or amphetamine drug classes. Adderall Ritalin and Vyvanse are some of the most popular. They can cause side effects such as sleepiness and appetite loss.
A non-stimulant drug like Strattera (atomoxetine) can also be beneficial. It works by boosting norepinephrine, which is a chemical in the brain. Exercise, a healthy diet and adequate sleep are important.
1. Methylphenidate
Ritalin (also also known as Methylphenidate) is among the most frequently prescribed medications to treat ADHD in children and adolescents. The stimulant medication boosts activity in brain areas that are involved in focusing. It has been used for more than 50 years, and many studies have shown that it is effective.
Methylphenidate works by blocking the reuptake of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which increases their concentration in the neural synapse. It is a racemic mix with the d-isomer more pharmacologically active. Methylphenidate comes in tablet, capsule extended release (ER) and orally disintegrating form. It is a Schedule II controlled drug with the highest danger of abuse and addiction.
Studies show that methylphenidate can increase impulsivity, inattention and hyperactivity among children with ADHD. However, methylphenidate could cause some negative side effects like the loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping. These side effects, although not a major issue but can be a hassle for parents.
Fortunately, the majority of these adverse effects will diminish as time passes. It is also important to note that methylphenidate can raise heart rate and blood pressure in some individuals and that's why it is a Schedule II controlled substance. It is not recommended to take methylphenidate consumed during pregnancy, as it can cause harm to an unborn child, or have long-term consequences on the infant who is breastfed.
Methylphenidate usually is taken in the morning. It is advised to avoid foods and drinks that can affect the absorption of the drug. For extended-release tablets and capsules read the leaflet for directions on how to swallow them whole or to open them and mix the contents with some soft food like yogurt or honey and then swallow.
2. Ritalin
Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a stimulant for the central nervous system that alters the chemical balance of the brain and nerves that contribute to attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity and impulse control. Ritalin is approved by the FDA to treat ADHD and the narcolepsy of children and adults who are 6 years old and older. It is also prescribed off-label to treat a number of other conditions that include major depressive disorder as well as terminal cancer.
The most common prescription medication used by healthcare providers to treat ADHD is stimulants. They function by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters help improve concentration and increase motivation. They also play a part in the fight or flight response. When used correctly stimulants can greatly reduce symptoms of ADHD.
As with any medication, methylphenidate may cause adverse effects. The most frequently reported side effects are loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. Some people experience jitteriness and mood swings. They might also experience stomachaches or headaches. These symptoms typically disappear after several weeks.
Ritalin is often misused as a stimulant, even though it is prescribed to treat ADHD. It is a problem when people consume more than the prescribed dosage, or combine it with other stimulants. It is risky to combine it with alcohol or other narcotics. It can also involve crushing or dissolving the tablets into the powder which is later consumed. It is possible to overdose on Ritalin.
The FDA has approved a handful of nonstimulant ADHD drugs. They are primarily norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These drugs do not address the core symptoms, but can be beneficial when used in conjunction with stimulants to lessen their negative effects. These medications are often effective when they are coupled with behavioral therapy.
3. Vyvanse
Vyvanse is the brand name for Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, an amphetamine that improves focus and attention in ADHD patients. This medication also curbs episodes of excessive eating associated with binge-eating disorders (BED). Vyvanse works on specific pathways in the brain to raise the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. concerta adhd medication is usually prescribed as a part of a holistic treatment program for ADHD and BED. Similar to other stimulant medications Vyvanse can cause negative side effects, such as jitteriness, loss of appetite and anxiety. These side effects tend to decrease over time as your body gets used to the medication. If they are persistent, talk to your doctor about them.
It is essential to maintain regular visits to your doctor to ensure you are receiving the best treatment. They will be able monitor your improvement and make any necessary adjustments to your medication plan. They may also recommend alternative treatments to help ease the symptoms of ADHD. These may include herbal supplements, dietary modifications, and cognitive enhancement supplements. However, some herbs and dietary supplements are not backed by scientific research to prove their effectiveness as ADHD treatments. This includes pycnogenol (an extract of the bark of the maritime pine).
Other popular stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD include methylphenidate-based forms and dextroamphetamine. These include Ritalin and Adderall. They are also available in extended-release versions, which offer more consistent symptoms control throughout the day. Your doctor can also prescribe stimulant medications like atomoxetine or guanfacine. These nootropics have been proven to improve memory and mental clarity. They are not intended to replace prescription ADHD medications.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD for adults and children. It is typically taken in the morning, with or without food and at the same time every day, to maximize the effectiveness of the drug. It can be used as an immediate-release or extended-release medication, based on the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Focalin is a man-made stimulant that is similar to methylphenidate however has fewer side negative effects. It also does not contain harmful isomers, like other methylphenidate medicines. Focalin increases the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, by preventing their reuptake and encouraging their release. This helps reduce the symptoms of ADHD like inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity.
It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about what ADHD medications are helping you or helping your child. Doctors often try different dosages and medications to figure out which one works best for each patient. They can also prescribe non-stimulant medications to boost the ability to focus and control impulsive behavior.
Never share your Focalin prescription with anyone, not even a person who suffers from ADHD. This could lead to grave and possibly fatal interactions with drugs. It is also not recommended to take Focalin XR while pregnant or nursing as animal studies suggest that it can cause harm to the pregnant fetus. concerta adhd medication could cause side effects that are more severe if you are taking alcohol, sedatives, or other illegal substances.
5. Intuniv
Guanfacine is the main ingredient in Intuniv. It is an alpha-2-adrenergic antagonist that has been shown by research to improve ADHD symptoms by acting on the prefrontal cortex. This can help control the intensity of impulsivity and attention. It also addresses other impairments that are associated with ADHD like emotional sensitiveness, rejection sensitivity and hyperarousal by reducing adrenaline levels to normal. Intuniv does not cause stimulation and therefore doesn't cause the same side-effects as stimulants such as Adderall. Guanfacine can cause serious side effects, such as sedation, low blood pressure and a slower heart rate. In addition, those with depression or an history of addiction may not be good candidates for this drug.
While stimulants are effective in treating ADHD symptoms but they can also cause dependence and adverse effects. Non-stimulant drugs like Intuniv take longer to work, but are less likely to cause harmful side effects. Consult your doctor to determine the best treatment for you.
Intuniv is FDA approved to treat children from six to 17 years old, however it has not been tested in people younger than this age group or adults. It is not a controlled substance therefore there is no chance of abuse or dependence. Guanfacine, however, can be a habit-forming drug. It should only be used under the supervision of a physician or a nurse practitioner.
Intuniv should be taken regularly and at the same time to ensure an even amount of the drug in the bloodstream. It is to be crushed between two spoons, in an plastic bag, or on folded paper and mixed with small amounts of soft food such as applesauce chocolate syrup, ice cream, yogurt, or jelly. Then, the entire dose must be swallowed by the child in order to prevent it from being spit out.