Finding the Best Medication For ADHD
The most common medication prescribed for ADHD is stimulants. They include amphetamines and methylphenidates. Short-acting stimulants are effective in under an hour and must be taken multiple times throughout the day. Long-acting stimulants can last for up to 16 hours, and are usually taken just once per day.
Your doctor might prescribe antidepressants and other types of medication "off-label" to treat ADHD symptoms. These are drugs approved for treating other conditions such as anxiety and depression.
Stimulants
Stimulants are one of the most commonly used medications used to treat ADHD. They increase alertness, improve concentration and decrease impulsivity. They work by slowing down the absorption of dopamine and norepinephrine. These are two neurotransmitters that increase brain activity and aid in helping different brain regions communicate with each other. These are controlled substances due to the possibility of misuse. Anyone who uses stimulants must be wary of counterfeit versions. They are typically more potent and carry higher risks of addiction and an overdose. Stimulants can be taken daily, weekly or on a "as needed" basis. Most people start with a small dosage and gradually increase the dosage. The doctor will be able to monitor the development of your child or yourself by filling out behavior rating scales and looking for signs. They will also take measurements of the height, weight and blood pressure, as well as pulse, and the rate of pulse.
Amphétamines and Methylphenidate are the most frequently prescribed stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in short-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting drugs are taken more frequently than daily. Long-acting drugs are taken only once per day. Short-acting drugs have a shorter action, starting to work within 30 to 45 minutes and lasting between 3 and 6 hours. Long-acting drugs have a longer-lasting action, starting to take effect after 2 to 4 hours and lasting for up to 12 hours.
These medicines can cause side effects, such as heart problems and high blood pressure. They can also trigger a headache or a jittery sensation. Inform medication for adhd and anxiety of any adverse effects so they will determine if you need to alter the medication or decrease the dosage.
Most kids and adults with ADHD who are taking medication will suffer at least some adverse effects. It's crucial to find the right treatment plan for your family, so you can be as efficient as possible. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and report any changes that you or your child may notice in mood or other symptoms.
Nonstimulants can be utilized when stimulant drugs trigger an adverse reaction or the individual is not able to respond well to them (30 percent of people do not respond to stimulant medication). FDA has approved four nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD. They include Atomoxetine (Strattera), Qelbree (Guanfacine) and Strattera (Qelbree). Certain antidepressants like Wellbutrin are prescribed "off-label", for ADHD treatment. These drugs are less likely than other medications to cause agitation and sleepiness, and they have a lower risk of misuse. They are not as effective in reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.