Best Medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who are taking ADHD medication find they concentrate better, are less impulsive, feel calmer and get on with their schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowing of growth and have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these drugs.
There are many different types of medication that include liquids, tablets, patches, and capsules (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It comes in three forms: immediate-release, extended-release, and sustained-release.
Stimulants
One of the best medications for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These medications improve focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex region that is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it assists in the planning and organization skills.
Stimulants are available in both short-acting and long-acting dosages. The short-acting drugs peak in 30 to 45 minutes, and must be taken twice or three times a day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphetamines can be stronger and last longer than methylphenidates however they work in the same way to increase concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release versions. These can be a better option since they last between up to 12 hours and are typically taken daily. Certain of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquids to make a beverage, while others are pills.
It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will be able to monitor your reaction to different kinds of medicines and adjust the dosage if necessary. Drugs should only be used as part of a complete treatment plan, which will include behavioral therapy and support services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little bit longer to work however it can help you feel in control, improve click here your concentration and impulsivity and help you concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine the same as stimulants do, which means they are safer to use over an extended period of time. They can also be less prone to side effects, such as constipation, heartburn, and reduced 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 might prescribe other medicines from this class, including guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications within the tricyclic antidepressant group, like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only suggest these drugs if stimulants and other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many adverse consequences.
Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your doctor. These medications don't have an immediate impact however they can reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a distinct drug class from the other choices and can trigger some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects such as hearing loss or changes in vision.