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Types of ADHD Medication
There are a myriad of drugs that treat ADHD. It could take a while to locate a medication that is effective for you or your child.
Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate, or Ritalin can help alleviate symptoms by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. Some people who use these medications experience a sudden drop in energy, and even experiencing a "crash" after the drug wears off.
Short-acting
Many kids with ADHD can be helped by medications that can help manage their behavior. These drugs can aid children in learning how to finish their work and build better relationships. These drugs can also reduce distracting or annoying behaviors. Parents and doctors should collaborate to decide which medication is suitable for their child. Children respond differently to medications, so it is important to find the appropriate medication for each child. A health care team might recommend a combination of medications and other treatments, including counseling.
There are two kinds of medications that treat ADHD in adolescents, children and adults: stimulants and other medications. The stimulants alter brain chemicals that influence attention and impulse control. They may have a short-acting effect (lasting only for a few hours) or a more long-lasting effect (lasting for the whole day). Some people experience side effects like decreased appetite, sleep issues, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. Most doctors can find an medication that has minimal or no side effects for the majority of people.
Stimulants are the most common treatments for ADHD. These include methylphenidates, amphetamines, and other stimulants. The Drug Enforcement Administration regulates them as Schedule II drugs because they are high-risk for misuse and abuse if not taken as directed. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are a few examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These drugs can cause serious health problems when they are not used according to the prescription. It is crucial to consult with your doctor prior to taking them.
Stimulants are not recommended for children less than 6. Some kids may need an alternative medication or a lower dose. Before prescribing medication your doctor will check for other conditions that may be causing the symptoms of your child. They will inquire about your child's symptoms, habits and family history. They will also perform an exam to check if there are any problems with vision or hearing. They may also ask about your child's diet or sleep habits. They'll want to know whether your child has allergies. The doctor will then issue the prescription and instructions on how to take it. Make sure to check in with your doctor frequently to check how the medication is working.
Long-acting
ADHD medications can help you focus your brain, just as a pair glasses can sharpen fuzzy vision. They boost the levels of chemicals that are essential for attention and focus. The two major types of medications are stimulants (e.g., amphetamines or methylphenidates) and non-stimulant medications.
Long- and short-acting stimulant meds are available for people with ADHD. They work in 70-80% cases. Long-acting ADHD meds work in phases with part of the dose released immediately after taking one in the morning and the remainder released throughout the day. adhd adults medication can cut down on the amount of pills required to take each day, are easier to remember and deliver more consistently the dose of medication compared to short-acting medication. They also have fewer adverse reactions and "ups and downs" than short-acting drugs.
Non-stimulant
About 70-80% adults and children can be treated with medication that reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications improve their ability to focus and control impulsivity. They also help improve the school performance and social skills. In fact, medication is the first line of treatment for most people suffering from ADHD. They can be used by themselves or with other treatments such as behavior therapy.
Stimulant medications, such as Ritalin and Adderall are effective in increasing the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This improves the exchange of the communication between nerves and helps control the intensity of impulsivity and focus. Stimulant medication is available in immediate-release, extended release or long-acting tablets. The most well-known stimulants include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. The instant-release version, which is taken in small doses throughout the day to provide fast relief from symptoms, is generally taken in smaller doses. The longer-acting extended-release versions are typically taken once a day and provide longer symptom control.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a variety of nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD. The most commonly prescribed nonstimulant medication is Atomoxetine (Strattera). Qelbree is a newer medication. These drugs don't contain methylphenidate, amphetamine or controlled substances. They have a lower potential for abuse since they're not controlled.
Other nonstimulant medicines are clonidine and guanfacine. These are more likely to be prescribed for people who have a combination of ADHD and Tourette syndrome. They require several weeks before they begin to work and reduce anxiety and tics. These medications can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
The medications are not always effective or well-tolerated. The first medication one takes to treat ADHD may not be the best choice or cause unfavorable or inexplicably unpleasant adverse effects. The doctor can help by changing the dosage or switching to a different medication.
It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you or your child takes such as over-the counter medicines and supplements. This information is used to prevent interactions between different medications. It is also essential to let your healthcare provider know of any changes in mood or behavior that might indicate a problem with the medication.