ADHD Medication List
The most commonly used ADHD drugs are stimulant medications such as Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They boost the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine to improve focus and decrease hyperactivity.
These medicines can cause adverse effects. Your health care professional can help you determine the appropriate dosage and the medicine that works best for you or your child.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular kind of medication that healthcare professionals use to treat ADHD. They boost the levels certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, allowing people to focus and think clearly. They also help people stay motivated. In the majority of instances, 80 percent of children suffering from ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms once the doctor determines the appropriate stimulant medication and dosage. Stimulants can be taken in the form of a patch, or as an oral injection. Some people with ADHD also take nonstimulant drugs to alleviate symptoms. It takes time to figure out the right dosage, medication and schedule for every person with ADHD.
The first stimulant drug a person with ADHD is trying might not be effective or cause unpleasant adverse effects. If symptoms return or if a person does not see improvement after a few weeks the doctor might suggest an alternative medication.
Only prescriptions from a doctor or other qualified doctor are accepted. They aren't available over-the-counter (OTC). It's not recommended that you use supplements or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD. They could interfere with your prescription.
There are a variety of stimulant medications, such as amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin) as well as dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (Ritalin). The majority of these drugs are available in pill form, however certain are available as chewable, liquid or patch tablets. To limit the chance of misuse, a doctor might suggest medications that have a long-acting release, or extended-release. The medicines are absorbed slowly in the bloodstream, and disappear slowly. This helps reduce the symptoms of "the rebound effect," which is when the person's mood and energy decreases after the medication has expired.
The drugs usually begin to work after 30-60 minutes, and their effects last for about 3-4 hours. The majority of people take them two or three times daily.
Short-acting stimulants can cause the sensation of a "crash" that can make people feel irritable or tired and hungry. Some people suffering from ADHD also experience what's known as tics, which are repeated sound or movements that resemble eye blinks or throat clearing. adhd treatment medication are not caused by the medication, but can become worse if it is not stopped.
There is a small chance of addiction and abuse with any kind of stimulant, however this is not likely in the doses that are low to treat ADHD. The risk is greater for young adults and teens, and may be greater for people with an addiction history or mental illness.
Most stimulants cause side effects such as headaches, stomach upset, and an increase in heart rate. These side effects usually disappear after a few weeks of taking the medication, but in the event that they don't, speak to your doctor.
People suffering from ADHD should inform their doctor if there is a history of depression, anxiety heart disease, depression, or high blood pressure. They should also inform their doctor know if they're taking any other medications or beverages with caffeine, as they might affect the effectiveness of the medication. They should also tell their doctor that they have an alcohol-related family history, or any other mental health issues.