Best Medication For ADHD
Most children and teenagers who are taking ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They also feel calmer and get on with their schoolwork. Some may experience a slight slowdown in growth and may be experiencing an increase in heart rate or blood pressure while taking these medicines.
There are many different types of medications that include liquids, tablets patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts with extended-release.
Stimulants
One of the best medications for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs enhance concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often called the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in organizing and planning abilities.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a day. These include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer than methylphenidates however they work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. There are extended-release versions of a few stimulant medications. These are a better choice because they last for 8 to 12 hours and are usually taken once a day. Some of these medicines are a powder that you mix with liquid to make a drink, while others are in pill form.
Finding the right medication may take some time. Your doctor will monitor your reaction to different kinds of medication and alter the dosage as needed. Drugs should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which should include a combination of behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to kick in, but can make you feel more in control and improve your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way that stimulants do. They are therefore able to be used for a longer time. These medications can also be less prone to side negative effects like constipation, heartburn and reduced sexual drive. Strattera is the first medication that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of selective reuptake. Your doctor could prescribe additional medication from this category, including guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These older tricyclic antidepressants like Tofranil(imipramine) are prescribed to treat ADHD. These drugs are only prescribed by doctors if stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or if they cause too many side effects.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These medications do not have an immediate impact, but they can help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs than the others and can cause negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. adhd medication online can cause unpleasant but not usually serious side effects, including ringing in the ears or changes in vision.