ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One
Finding the best ADHD medication can take a lot of trial and error. Effectiveness is affected by many factors such as metabolism as well as side effects and how the medication interacts with other medications and supplements.
It can take some time for stimulants to work however they can improve concentration, attention, and impulsivity. They also boost levels of brain chemicals, such as dopamine and epinephrine.
Stimulants
Stimulants, also known as uppers, increase the body's functions and make people feel more alert. The stimulants include caffeine (a substance that is frequently used to keep you awake and alert), amphetamines and dextroamphetamines (Adderall and Vyvanse), lisdexafetamine, and prescription drugs such as methylphenidate, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. They may also be illegal substances such as crystal meth, cocaine and bath salts (synthetic cathinones) that are often used by young people for their stimulant effects. These drugs when prescribed by a physician have been proven to help improve ADHD symptoms and functioning in those who suffer from the disorder.
Prescription stimulants are generally safe if used correctly, but they can cause a variety of side effects such as headache, insomnia, nervousness as well as stomach upset shaking, agitation and a rapid heartbeat. They can also cause confusion. They also have a high potential for abuse and addiction. If taken in higher-than-prescribed doses or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to overdose and death.
Since more than 30 years dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate and other prescription stimulants are available as pills, liquids, chewable tablets and skin patches. The drugs, also referred to as Adderall and Ritalin under their brand names, work by increasing the dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. They can help improve the ability to focus, behavior, and self-control. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release (long-lasting) versions.
Viloxazine and atomoxetine, both of which are sold under the brand name Qelbree are stimulant drugs that can be purchased over-the-counter. These are in a class of medications known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs. They function by preventing the action of a certain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine in the brain. They do not help with the symptoms of ADHD, but they can be helpful in combination with other treatments like nonstimulant medications and treatment for behavior.
Nonstimulant medication
FDA has approved a number of nonstimulant medication to treat ADHD. They are usually easier to take than stimulant medications and have fewer adverse negative effects. They don't work as quickly as stimulants, though, and may take several weeks before they begin working. They may also be less addictive than stimulant drugs, and some doctors even recommend them as the first choice for adults.
Medications that are not considered stimulants include the clonidine (brand name Zanex) and alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists like guanfacine (brand name Tenex). These are usually used "off-label" for ADHD which means that they aren't approved by the FDA to treat this condition. However knowing it can be useful in reducing ADHD symptoms by acting as a sedative and slowing the activity of certain nerve cells in the brain.
non prescription adhd medication uk and related behavioral therapy are also essential components of treatment for ADHD. Children and adults with ADHD can benefit from behavioral training to discover new methods of managing their symptoms, develop social skills, and develop strategies for managing anger and conflict. These treatments are most effective for younger children or those with milder symptoms. These treatments aren't always effective for older children or adults who have more severe symptoms of ADHD.