Types of ADHD Medication
The first class of medication doctors prescribe for ADHD is called stimulants. These drugs increase the brain chemical activity dopamine and norepinephrine.
Stimulant pills are available in both long- and short-acting dosages. The long-acting form of these medications allows for continuous medication throughout the day. This helps reduce the side effects that are associated with the fluctuating the levels of drugs.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most popular kind of medication used to treat ADHD are also the most effective. They help improve concentration and attention in around 70 to 80% of those suffering from ADHD. They do this by boosting brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals influence your ability to focus and pay attention. They come in a variety of forms, including tablets, pills, extended release (ER), and orally disintegrating tablets. Your doctor will prescribe a medication that is right for you. They'll determine if you'd prefer to take the stimulant with food, its effectiveness, speed of action, and any potential side effects.
Ritalin is the most commonly prescribed ADHD stimulant. Concerta, Focalin and Daytrana are also used. They are in a class of medications called methylphenidates. This includes atomoxetine, Strattera Tenex Intuniv Kapvay and Tenex.
These drugs aren't considered addictive in the doses used to treat ADHD. However they can cause issues like loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping, as well as increase blood pressure and heart rate. They may also interact with certain medications or medical conditions.
People suffering from ADHD who take stimulants need to be closely monitored by their doctors. adhd medications Iam Psychiatry can take time to determine the right dosage and type of medication for each person. It's important to communicate openly with your health care provider and report any adverse changes or adverse effects, like a sudden change in appetite or mood, and how the medication is working for you or your child.
Stimulant medications have been used to treat ADHD since the 1960s, and are very safe when taken at the prescribed dosage. They are effective for 70 to the majority of children and adults and help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and the tendency to be impulsive. They can help reduce interruptions and fidgeting, and improve learning and social skills.
Most adults and children who use stimulants will have to continue taking them for life, although some can reduce or eliminate the use of these substances. The medication is often used with other treatments such as the use of behavior therapy or training for skills.
Nonstimulant medicines can be helpful in cases where stimulants are not effective or cause undesirable adverse effects. They can aid in improving the way stimulants work, helping you or your child to concentrate, control impulses and pay attention. These drugs, which are usually in a class called alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists, were utilized "off label" to treat ADHD for a number of years before FDA approval.
Clonidine, Guanfacine and a more recent drug called Atomoxetine, are all in this class. These drugs are in a different drug class than the methylphenidates and are less likely to cause side effects, but they don't perform as fast. These medications increase the activity of norepinephrine in the brain, which is responsible for controlling emotions and paying attention. They can take anywhere from four to six weeks before they begin to work however they typically show improvement in only a few days. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with stimulants to enhance how they function together.