ADHD Medications
The use of medications is a crucial tool for managing ADHD symptoms. Finding the right dose to relieve symptoms without causing side effects can be a difficult process.
Stimulants are the most popular prescription drugs used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD. Examples include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse) and clonidine hydrochloride (Kapvay).
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that act to stimulate the central nervous system. They are often known as "uppers" and include drugs such as caffeine, and prescription drugs for ADHD and other disorders. In general, stimulants increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which aid brain nerves to communicate with one another. These drugs boost energy levels, focus attention, and improve wakefulness. These medications decrease interruptions and fidgeting and also the difficulty of working on tasks in people with ADHD. They can also improve their performance and relationships at work or school.
Adderall and methylphenidate are two of the most commonly prescribed stimulants used to treat ADHD. best adhd medication for adults are available in both short- and long-acting dosages. The short-acting drugs peak in several hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day while the long-acting drugs last for 8-12 hours and are generally taken every day. Some adults also take clonidine in addition to stimulants. It is part of the class of drugs called centrally acting alpha agonist hypotensive drugs and targets areas of the brain that control the ability to make decisions.
Most stimulants have some negative effects, but they can be reduced by starting at a low dose and increasing gradually. Some of the side effects include insomnia, jitteriness, and headaches, as well as stomachaches and loss of appetite. Other, more severe adverse effects include tremors and muscle tics. They can cause abdominal pain, blurred or distorted vision, confusion, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, or seizures. People with an history of bipolar or depression disorder should avoid stimulants, since they can aggravate these conditions.
Certain people who are taking stimulants can develop psychiatric problems that include hostility or aggression. They may also become withdrawn, listless, rigid or less spontaneous and talkative. The blood pressure and heart rate can also be increased when taking stimulants for prolonged periods of time. Abusing stimulants, especially among young adults and teens, is a serious problem. People use the drugs to boost energy and focus in order to study or pull all-nighters at college.
There are nonstimulant ADHD medications that are available, but they don't function in the same way as the stimulants do. Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree) are effective, in theory, by increasing the concentrations of dopamine and norepinephrine in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. These medications may be beneficial for people suffering from ADHD who have co-occurring psychiatric disorders, like Tourette syndrome or anxiety.
A combination of behavioral therapy and stimulants is the most effective treatment for ADHD. To determine the appropriate dosage and medication for your child, it is important to discuss all the options with your physician. Ask lots of questions and be patient. It could require a lot of trial and error before you find the appropriate medication to treat your symptoms or those of your child. In this process you'll have to monitor the behavior rating scales and observe any changes in classroom or at home behaviour. You should also keep an eye on any side effects and track your child's weight, height and weight, heart rate and blood pressure.