Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children taking ADHD medication tend to focus better, be less impulsive and calmer. They also get on with schoolwork. Some individuals may experience a slight slowing of their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure while taking these medications.
The medications are available in a variety of forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate-release sustained-release and extended-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. These drugs aid in improving focus and attention by affecting certain neurotransmitters within the brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often referred to by the term "secretary of the brain" because it assists in the planning and organizing abilities.
Stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken two or three times a day. These include methylphenidates such as Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer than methylphenidates but both work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release forms. They are a good alternative since they last from up to 12 hours, and are usually taken every day. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to make drinks, while others are pills.
It may take some time to find the right medication for you or your child. Your doctor will be able to monitor your response to different types of medication and alter the dosage if necessary. The use of medicines should be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a longer to take effect but it can make you feel in control, increase your concentration and impulsivity, and improve your concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do, and therefore can be more secure to use for an extended period of time. These medications also be less prone to side effects such as constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. Strattera is the first medication that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of the selective reuptake of norepinephrine. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine. These are both drugs in this class.
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These are older medications within the tricyclic antidepressant group, like buy adhd medication online Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only recommend these drugs when stimulants and other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many side consequences.
Your doctor can prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have a direct effect however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. These medications are in a different class of drugs compared to the others and can trigger side effects like shaky hand 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 can improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but usually not severe, side effects, such as ringing in the ears or changes in vision.