Types of ADHD Medication
The first class of drugs doctors prescribe for ADHD is called stimulants. These drugs increase brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine.
Short- and long-acting stimulant pills are available. The long-acting form of these pills allows for continuous use throughout the day. This reduces the adverse effects that are associated with the fluctuations in the levels of drugs.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most popular type of medication used to treat ADHD is also the most effective. They can improve focus and attention in approximately 70 to 80% of people suffering from ADHD. They accomplish this by increasing the brain chemical dopamine as well as norepinephrine that impacts your ability to pay attention and think clearly. The stimulants are available in a variety of forms, like tablets, pills, extended-release (ER), and orally disintegrating tablet. Your doctor will prescribe the best option for you, based on whether or not you want to take it along with food, how quickly it works, and any adverse effects you might encounter.
Ritalin is the most frequently prescribed ADHD stimulant. Concerta, Focalin and Daytrana are also popular. They belong to a class known as methylphenidates. Other medications in this group include atomoxetine, Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv, and Kapvay.
These medications aren't considered to be addictive in the doses prescribed to treat ADHD. However they can cause issues like loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping, as well as increase blood pressure and heart rate. They may also interact with certain medications or medical conditions.
Doctors must closely monitor patients who suffer from ADHD who are taking stimulants. It may take a while to find the right dose and type of medication for each person. It is crucial to openly communicate with your doctor and inform them of any side effects or negative changes, such as sudden changes in mood or appetite. Also inform them of how the medication works for you or your children.
Stimulant drugs have been used to treat ADHD since the 1960s, and are extremely safe when taken at the dosage prescribed. They work for 70 to 80 percent of children and adults, and reduce hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity symptoms. They can decrease fidgeting, interrupting, and improve interpersonal skills and learning.
Most children and adults who take stimulants will need to take them for life, although some can reduce or stop them. relevant resource site are often combined with other treatments like behavior therapy or skills training.
Nonstimulant medications can be beneficial when stimulants don't work or cause unwanted adverse effects. They can help improve the effects of stimulants, enabling you or your child to focus, control impulses, and pay attention. These medications, which are generally part of a class known as alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists, are employed "off label" to treat ADHD for a long, long time years prior to FDA approval.
Clonidine, Guanfacine, and a more recent drug called Atomoxetine are all part of this class. These drugs belong to an entirely different class of drugs from the methylphenidates and are less likely to cause side effects, however they don't work as quickly. These medications increase activity of the brain chemical norepinephrine which is involved in paying attention and controlling emotions. They can take anywhere from four to six weeks to start working, but they often see improvement within only a few days. They can be used in conjunction with stimulants, or used on their own to boost their effectiveness.