Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children taking ADHD medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive, and are calmer. They also get on with schoolwork. Some sufferers may experience a slowing in their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure when taking these medications.
There are a variety of medicines such as tablets, liquids patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are one of the classes of drugs that can be effective in treating ADHD. These drugs enhance focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex which is often called the brain's "secretary" because it assists in the planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken 2 or 3 times per throughout the day. These include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, however they all work in similar ways to improve concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release forms. They are the best choice because they last between 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken once a day. Some of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquid to create drinks, while others are pills.
Finding the right medication may take some time. Your doctor will monitor your response to different types of medications and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medications should be part of an overall treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications can take a bit longer to begin working however they can help you feel more in control and improve your impulsivity, concentration and focus. These medications do not affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way that stimulants do. They can therefore be utilized for a longer period of time. These medications also be less prone to side effects such as heartburn, constipation and a decreased sexual drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera and is an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine. These are both medications in this class.
There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past, such as Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. Doctors only recommend these drugs in cases where stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many side consequences.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These drugs don't have an immediate impact, but they can help reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a different drug category than the other options, and they can cause certain side effects like shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but not usually read more serious adverse effects, including hearing ringing or changes in vision.