adhd adults medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who are taking ADHD medication report that they focus better, are less impulsive, feel more calm and are able to get on with their schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowing of growth and experience an increase in heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.
Medications are available in different forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most well-known stimulant. It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective medications for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs improve concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is sometimes known as the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications are most effective between 30 and 45 minutes, and must be taken two or three times a day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphetamines can be more potent and last longer than methylphenidates, but both work in the same way to increase concentration and attention. There are also extended-release versions of certain stimulant drugs. These can be a better option since they last between 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken daily. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquids to make beverages, while some are pills.
Finding the right medicine can take a bit of time. Your doctor will watch how you react to different types of drugs and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medicines should be part of an overall treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to kick in, but can make you feel more in control and boost your impulsivity, concentration and focus. These medications don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way stimulants do. They are therefore able to be used for a longer time. They can also be less prone to adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn, and reduced sex drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medications within this category.
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry like Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or have too many adverse effects.
Your doctor can also prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have immediate effects however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. They're in a different class from the other choices, and they can cause some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but usually not serious side effects such as hearing loss or changes in vision.
