Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medication can help control ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for the symptoms. It may take time to find the perfect dosage and medication for your child or yourself. More suggestions that is honest and open with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial option for treating children and adults with ADHD. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most popular prescriptions by doctors to treat people suffering from ADHD. These medications increase levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect focus, attention and movement. Around 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD notice improvements in their symptoms following the discovery of the right stimulant drug and dose.
As a first-line treatment doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates to kids and teens who have ADHD. Amphetamines can also be prescribed, since they are more effective and have less negative side effects for adults. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine, and dopamine. People with heart problems should be closely monitored if taking stimulants.
The majority of adults and children who take stimulants may experience some side effects. Most of the time these side effects will disappear within some days or weeks. If they don't, consult your doctor about changing the medication or locating an alternative that is better for you or your child.
The most frequent effects of stimulants are an increase in appetite, trouble sleeping and difficulty staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Some people experience changes in their personality. Certain people may experience worsening anxiety or depression. This is why it's important to speak with an expert in mental health prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may make some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also cause headaches, stomachaches and a loss of appetite. They can also lead to an increased risk of substance abuse. They aren't habit-forming when they are in the small doses used to treat ADHD however, they could create addiction if they are used in excessive doses.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to work and does not last as long as stimulants. However, they do improve focus and attention and reduce impulsivity. These medications are mostly made up of antidepressants and work on norepinephrine, which is a brain chemical. They can be prescribed alone or together with stimulants. This is particularly applicable when a person suffers from depression, anxiety or ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students with ADHD who are treated with medication have revealed that they can earn GPAs comparable to those of their peers if they follow a good set of studies. A recent study showed that college students with ADHD who were treated with medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by an average of a letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two classes of drugs - methylphenidates or amphetamines. Amphétamines are more prone for dependence and abuse than methylphenidates. However, the more recent, longer-acting atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower risks of abuse and dependence. Some people take a daily long-acting medication with an immediate-release dose in the late afternoon to lower their concentration fluctuations. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart outlines the class of medication, the brand name, generic name, and length of the action.