Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medication can control ADHD symptoms but will not cure it. It could take some time to determine the best medication and dosage for you or your child. The communication with your doctor must be honest and open.
Stimulants
adhd medication are the first treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common medication healthcare professionals prescribe to help people with ADHD. These drugs increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which affect the ability to focus, attention and movement. Around 70-80% children and adults with ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms after they discover the right stimulant and dosage.
As a first-line treatment, doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates for children and teens with ADHD. Amphetamines can also be prescribed, since they are more effective and have less adverse effects in adults. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine, and dopamine. People with heart issues should be monitored closely when taking stimulants.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulants will experience side effects. Home of the time these side effects will disappear within a few days or weeks. If they don't go away, speak to your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that performs better.
The most commonly reported stimulant-related side effects are the loss of appetite, difficulties sleeping, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become more withdrawn rigid, unfocused or inactive or exhibit obsessive-compulsive behavior. Some people can experience a worsening depression or anxiety. This is why it's crucial to consult a mental health professional prior to introducing stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may make some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also cause headaches, stomachaches and loss of appetite. They also increase the risk of using substances. The stimulants aren't habit-forming in the low doses used to treat ADHD However, they can cause addiction if misused or taken in high doses.
Non-stimulant medication takes longer to work and doesn't last as long as stimulants. However, they do enhance focus and attention, and decrease the risk of impulsivity. A majority of these drugs are based on antidepressants, and they work by affecting the brain chemical norepinephrine. They are available as a standalone medication or in conjunction with stimulants, particularly when the patient suffers from depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have found that they can attain GPAs similar to their peers if they follow a good set of studies. A recent study found that college students with ADHD who were prescribed medication to control symptoms improved their grades by one letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications are classified into two drug classes amphetamines or methylphenidates. Amphétamines are more prone for abuse and dependence than methylphenidates. But the newer longer-acting atomoxetine as well as bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower risks of misuse and dependence. Some people take a long-acting medication taken once daily with an immediate-release dose between mid- to late afternoon to reduce fluctuations in their concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart shows the class of medication, the generic name, brand name, and duration of action.