Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medicine can help to manage ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for them. It may take time to find the perfect medication and dosage for you or your child. The communication with your doctor should be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the first treatment for both children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. Around 70% to 80 percent of children and adults suffering from ADHD see improvement in their symptoms when they find the right stimulant and dose.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including Atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for kids and teens suffering from ADHD. Amphetamines are also prescribed, because they are more effective and have less negative side effects for adults. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Heart-related patients need to be monitored closely when taking stimulants.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulants experience side effects. However, the majority of the time these side effects will go away within a few weeks or less. If they don't, consult your doctor about changing the medication or finding a different one that works better for you or your child.
Some of the most frequent effects of stimulants are the loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and difficulty staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Some people experience changes in their personality. Others may experience an increase in depression or anxiety, which is the reason it is essential to speak with an expert in mental health before taking stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can cause anxiety and an increase in blood pressure. They can also trigger headaches, stomachaches and a loss of appetite. They can also result in an increased risk of a substance abuse. In low doses stimulants used to treat ADHD aren't habit-forming. However they can be addictive when misused or taken at high doses.
Non-stimulant medication takes longer to take effect and doesn't last as long as stimulants. However, they do enhance focus and attention, and reduce impulsivity. They are primarily made up of antidepressants and work on norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They are available as a single medication or in combination with stimulants, especially if someone is suffering from depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have shown that they can earn GPAs that are comparable to their peers, provided they use good studies. Read Home Page showed that college students with ADHD who were prescribed medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by an average of a letter grade.
Most medications for ADHD are classified into two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Amphetamines have more potential for abuse and dependency than methylphenidates. However, the more recent longer-acting atomoxetine as well as bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower risks of dependence and misuse. Some people supplement an anti-depressant that acts long daily, with an immediate-release dose in the mid to late afternoon to limit fluctuations 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 outlines the class of medication, generic name, brand name, and duration of action.