Best Medication For ADHD

Most teenagers and children who take ADHD medication notice they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and more focused with their school work. Some individuals may experience a slight slowing of their growth or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these medications.

There are a variety of medications that include liquids, tablets, patches, and capsules (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate-release extended-release, and sustained-release.

Stimulants

One of the best medications for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These drugs aid in improving focus and attention by affecting certain neurotransmitters within the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex that is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it assists with organizing and planning abilities.

Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times per throughout the day. Amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines can be more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates, however they work in the same way to increase concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medications are available in extended-release versions. They are a better option since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are generally taken only once a day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquids to create beverages, while some are pills.

It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will be able to monitor your response to different types of medication for odd and adhd and alter the dosage if needed. The use of medications should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to begin working, but can a doctor prescribe adhd medication without a diagnosis make you feel more in control and increase your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine the same way stimulants do. They can therefore be employed for a longer duration. They also have less negative effects, including heartburn, constipation and a decreased sex drive. Strattera is the first of these medications that was approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of the selective reuptake of norepinephrine. Your doctor may prescribe other medicines from this class such as the guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).

Non-stimulant antidepressants that are off-label are also available to treat adhd and anxiety medication. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry, such as Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. These drugs are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or if they have too many adverse effects.

Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These drugs don't have immediate effects however they can help reduce the impulsivity of people and increase concentration over time. They're in a different class from the other choices, and they can cause some side effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also recommend a low dose of an antidepressant, called bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not an FDA-approved treatment for ADHD however it can help improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but usually not serious side effects like hearing loss or changes in vision.