ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One
Finding the best ADHD medicine takes a lot trial and error. Effectiveness is affected by many factors, including metabolism as well as side effects and how the medication interacts with other drugs and supplements.
It can take some time for stimulants' effects to be felt however they can improve focus, attention and impulsivity. They also increase levels of brain chemicals like dopamine and epinephrine.
Stimulants
The stimulants, also referred to as uppers, speed up the body's functions and make people feel more alert. Examples of stimulants include caffeine, an ingredient that is commonly used to keep people alert and alert and prescription drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin) amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, (Adderall, Vyvanse), and the lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). They can also be illicit substances such as crystal meth, cocaine and bath salts (synthetic cathinones) that are often used by children due to their stimulating effects. These drugs when prescribed by a doctor have been proven to improve ADHD symptoms and functioning in people who suffer from the disorder.
Prescription stimulants are generally safe when used correctly, but they do carry a risk of side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, headache as well as stomach upset, agitation, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, and confusion. They may also be a risk for dependence and abuse. If taken in higher-than-prescribed doses or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to overdose and death.
The two main classes of prescription stimulants are methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine, which are available in pills, liquid, chewable tablets, and a skin patch for more than 30 years. The drugs, also referred to as Adderall and Ritalin by their brand names, function by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They can improve concentration, behavior, and self-discipline. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release (long-lasting) versions.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine, both of which are sold under the brand name Qelbree are stimulant medicines that are available over-the-counter. They are part of a class of medications known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, also known as SNRIs. They work by blocking the action of a particular neurotransmitter called norepinephrine in the brain. They do not aid in the treatment of symptoms of ADHD however they can be beneficial in conjunction with other treatments like nonstimulant medication and behavioral therapy.
Nonstimulant medicines
There are many non-stimulant drugs that have been FDA-approved to treat ADHD. They are typically easier to take than stimulant drugs and have less side consequences. They do not perform as fast as stimulants, however, and may take several weeks before they begin working. They are also less addictive than stimulant medications, and some doctors even recommend them as a first choice for adults.
Medicines that aren't considered stimulants include Clonidine (brand name Zanex) and alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists like guanfacine (brand name Tenex). inattentive adhd medication are generally used "off-label" for ADHD, meaning that they aren't approved by the FDA to treat this condition. They can help reduce ADHD symptoms by acting as a sedative, and slowing down the activity of certain brain nerve cells.
Behavioral education and related behavioral therapy are also essential components of treatment for ADHD. Adults and children with ADHD can benefit from behavioral therapy to develop new strategies for managing their symptoms, improve social skills, and develop strategies for managing conflicts and anger. These treatments are most effective for children younger than or those with milder symptoms. These treatments aren't always effective for older children or adults with more severe symptoms of ADHD.