ADHD Medication Names
Stimulant ADHD drugs like methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) can reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the level of the hormones norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. They are available as liquids, capsules, chewable tablets and extended-release tablets. A patch called Daytrana is also available.
Finding the appropriate medicine and dose for your child or you is a process of trial and error that requires open communication with the health care team.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication to treat ADHD. They boost concentration and focus and reduce impulsive and hyperactive behavior. These medications are believed to boost dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter linked with motivation and reward, in specific brain circuits.
Methylphenidate (MPH; Ritalin and Concerta) and dextroamphetamine-AMP (d-AMP; Adderall) are the two most common stimulants. They are available in chewable tablets or liquid form, and are consumed twice or three times daily. knowing it can temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate, but are usually not dangerous for most people.
Other medications can produce similar effects, but they're less efficient and can have more serious side effects. These include amphetamines (including atomoxetine and guanfacine) and methylenedioxybenzylpiperidine carbamate (MDP; Vyvanse). MDP can raise blood pressure, but it isn't dangerous to people who are in good cardiovascular health. It may also lead to an effect known as a rebound, in which symptoms return once the medication has worn off.
Prescription stimulants are frequently misused, either knowingly or unknowingly and can cause life-threatening, or even fatal effects. They are controlled substances and it is illegal to make use of them without having a prescription from a doctor or to misuse the prescription of someone else's. Prescription stimulants can also be addictive, particularly when they're misused or used improperly.
Stimulants can also have long-term impacts on growth and development. They may cause tics that are repeated sounds or movements, such as eye blinking or throat clearing, to become more noticeable. They can also make people sleepy and decrease appetite. They may cause minor growth delays in children, but they aren't typically a factor in height.
They can also cause personality changes in certain people, including becoming withdrawn and rigid, or listless. They can also cause an increase in depression or anxiety. The use of stimulants isn't the first-line treatment for depression or anxiety, but they're often tried when other medications haven't worked.
It takes time to determine the right medication, dose and formulation for your child or yourself. Be patient and communicate openly with your doctor. They will need to monitor your physical reactions until they find the right drug that reduces ADHD symptoms and minimizes the side negative effects. They may also recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological treatment to help manage your symptoms.