Types of ADHD Medication
The most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. These medications boost the levels of neurotransmitter hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain, which improves concentration and helps in controlling an impulsive behavior.
They are available as tablets or a patch (lisdexamfetamine). Long-acting stimulant formulations are preferable, as they deliver medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used medications for ADHD. They are quick-acting and reduce ADHD symptoms for 70 to 80 percent of children who use them. They increase brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces fatigue. Methylphenidate is a stimulant commonly used to treat ADHD. It is available in chewable or liquid tablet form and can be taken up to three times a day. Amphetamines can be prescribed for ADHD. They are slightly stronger than methylphenidates. These medications may cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate and those with preexisting conditions should tell their doctor.
Drugs that stimulate can cause addiction if they are misused, which includes taking more than the prescribed dosage or mixing them with other substances or alcohol. Individuals who use them as directed however, do not face an increased risk of becoming addicted. There is evidence to suggest that using ADHD medication may help prevent substance abuse in people at risk.
The FDA has approved a variety of stimulant medications for treating ADHD. Generic medications are available, which means that the chemical formula is identical. Your doctor will prescribe whichever medication is best for your child or you.
The doctor will start with a small dose, and examine how you or your child reacts before making adjustments to the dosage. Then, your doctor will decide whether you'll need to change to a different medication or add another.
The stimulants can cause adverse effects like dry mouth, reduced appetite, and changes in sleep patterns or moods. Certain teenagers and children who use stimulants develop tics. These are sudden movements or noises like eye blinks or throat clearing. Certain studies have shown that the use of stimulants can result in a slight decrease in height in some children and adolescents.
Non-stimulant drugs are slower to take effect than stimulants, but they can increase attention. They can take anywhere from up to four weeks to have a noticeable effect. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions in certain individuals. They are most often prescribed in conjunction with stimulant medications for ADHD.
Antidepressants can also be beneficial in treating ADHD. They affect the levels of serotonin within the brain. Certain medications, such as selective serotonin retake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been proven to increase impulsivity and focus in those suffering from ADHD.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications are rare and infrequent. adhd medication uk may recommend antidepressants in addition to stimulants for ADHD, or in place of stimulants in the event that you experience undesirable adverse effects. Certain adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from antidepressants as they improve memory and reduce impulsivity as well as aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are prescribed in conjunction with stimulants and may be more efficient than stimulants alone.