20 Myths About Best Medication For ADHD: Busted

Best Medication For ADHD

Most teenagers and children who are taking ADHD medication report that they focus better, are less impulsive, feel calmer and more focused with their school work. Some may experience a slight slowing in growth and could be experiencing an increase in heart rate or blood pressure while taking these medicines.

There are a variety of medication such as tablets, liquids, patches, and capsules (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate-release extended-release, and sustained-release.

Stimulants

One of the most effective medications for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These medications help improve focus and attention by affecting certain neurotransmitters within the brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in the planning and organizing skills.

Stimulants are available in both short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a day. These include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are more potent and last longer, but they all work in similar ways to improve focus and attention. There are also extended-release versions of some stimulant medications. They are a good option because they last 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken once per day. Certain of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquids to create a beverage, while others are pills.

It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will observe how you react to different kinds of medications and will alter the dosage as required. Medications should only be used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan, which should include behavioral therapy and support services.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to work but it can make you feel in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your focus. These medications don't affect dopamine and norepinephrine in the way that stimulants do, and therefore are safer to use for longer periods of time. They can also be less prone to adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn and decreased sex drive. Strattera is the first of these drugs that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's a selective reuptake norepinephrine inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both drugs within this category.

There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry like Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. Doctors will only recommend these medications if stimulants and other non-stimulants aren't working or cause too many side consequences.

Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These medications do not have a direct effect, but they can help reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration.  visit your url  in a different drug class from the other choices and can trigger some side effects such as headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor might also suggest an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable, but generally not serious adverse effects, including ringing in the ears or changes in vision.