Types of ADHD Medication
The first class that doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. These drugs increase the brain chemical activity dopamine and norepinephrine.
Short- and long-acting stimulant pills are available. The long-acting form of these pills permits continuous medication throughout the day. This helps reduce the side effects associated with fluctuations in drug levels.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most popular type of medication used to treat ADHD is also the most efficient. Around 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD benefit from stimulants. They accomplish this by increasing brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine, which affect your ability to concentrate and pay attention. Stimulants come in many forms, like tablets, pills, extended-release (ER), and orally disintegrating tablets. Your doctor will recommend the one that's best for you, taking into consideration whether or not you wish to take it along with food, how quickly it works, as well as any side effects you may encounter.
The most frequently prescribed stimulants for ADHD include Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, and Daytrana. knowing it belong to the class of medications known as methylphenidates. Other medications within this class include atomoxetine, Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Kapvay.
These drugs aren't considered addictive in the doses used to treat ADHD. They can cause problems such as loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increase in heart rate and blood tension. They also are able to interact with certain medications and medical conditions.
People with ADHD who take stimulants need to be closely monitored by their doctors. Finding the appropriate dosage and dosage for each individual can take some time. It's important to communicate openly with your health care provider and report any negative changes or side effects, like an abrupt change in mood or appetite, and how the medication is effective for you or your child.
Since the 1960s, stimulant medicines are prescribed to treat ADHD. They are safe if taken in the dosage prescribed by a doctor. They are effective for 70 to 80 percent of both children and adults and can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. symptoms. They can help reduce interruptions and fidgeting and enhance the ability to learn and social skills.
The majority of children and adults who use stimulants will have to take them for the rest of their lives, though certain types of stimulants can be reduced or eliminate them. Medications are often combined with other forms of treatment like behavior therapy and skills training.
Nonstimulant medications can help when stimulants aren't working or cause unpleasant side effects. They can aid in improving the ways stimulants work, allowing your child or yourself to focus, manage impulses, and pay attention. These medications, which are generally part of a class known as alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists, were utilized "off label" to treat ADHD for a long, long time years before FDA approval.
The medications in this class are guanfacine, clonidine, and a newer drug known as atomoxetine (Strattera). These medications aren't as effective, but they are in a different class of drugs from methylphenidates. They are less likely to cause side effects. These medications increase activity of the brain chemical norepinephrine which is involved in paying attention and controlling emotions. It could take as long as six weeks for them to begin working, but many people see improvements within a couple of days. They can be used alone or in combination with stimulants to increase the way they work together.