Best Medication For ADHD: A Simple Definition

Best Medication For ADHD: A Simple Definition

Tamela Chataway 0 5 12.25 05:26
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Teenagers and children taking adhd medication private prescription medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive, and are more relaxed. They also get on with schoolwork. Some sufferers may experience a slowing of their growth, or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these medications.

They are available in various forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate-release, sustained-release and extended-release.

Stimulants

One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These medications improve concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is sometimes referred to by the term "secretary of the brain" because it assists in the planning and organizing skills.

Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications are most effective between 30 and 45 minutes, and must be taken twice or three times per day. These include methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines may be a bit more potent and last longer than methylphenidates but both work in the same way to improve attention and focus. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release forms. They are a good option because they last up to 12 hours and are usually taken once per day. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquid to make drinks, while others are in pill form.

psychology-today-logo.pngIt can take time to find the right medication for you or your child. Your doctor will observe your response to different types of medication and alter the dosage if needed. The use of medicines should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a longer to take effect however it can help you feel in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration and increase your concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do, so they can be more secure to use for an extended period of time. They also have less adverse effects, such as constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. Strattera is the first of these drugs that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of selective reuptake. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both medications in this class.

human-givens-institute-logo.pngThere are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant family like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors will only recommend these medications if stimulants and other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many adverse negative effects.

Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your physician. These medications do not have a direct effect however they can reduce impulsivity and improve concentration over time. They're in a different class than the other options, and they can cause some side effects such as headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor may also recommend the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It can have some unpleasant but not usually serious, side effects, like ringing in the ears or changes in vision.

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