Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medicines can manage ADHD symptoms but won't cure it. It may take some time to find the dosage and medication that works best for your child or you. Your doctor's communication should be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial treatment option for children and adults with ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which affect the ability to focus, attention, and movement. About 70-80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms following the discovery of the correct stimulant drug and dose.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for children and teens with ADHD. They also may prescribe amphetamines, which are more effective for adults and cause fewer side consequences. Stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. adhd uk medication with heart conditions should be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
Most children and adults who take stimulants will experience some side effects. The majority of these adverse effects will subside within a few days or weeks. If they don't, consult your doctor about changing the medication or looking for an alternative that is better for you or your child.
Some of the most frequent side effects of stimulants include the loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become shy rigid, unfocused or inactive, or they may show obsessive-compulsive behavior. Certain people may experience worsening of anxiety or depression. This is why it's crucial to consult a mental health professional prior to introducing stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches, and a decrease in appetite. They also can lead to an increased risk of a substance abuse. Stimulants are not habit-forming in the low doses used to treat ADHD However, they can create addiction if they are misused or taken in high doses.
Non-stimulant medication takes longer to work and doesn't last as long as stimulants. However, they can enhance focus and attention, and decrease impulsivity. A majority of these drugs are based on antidepressants and they act on the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed alone or together with stimulants. This is especially true when a person also suffers from depression, anxiety, or ADHD.
Studies of academic performance among students with ADHD who are treated with medication have revealed that they can achieve GPAs similar to their peers if they use good habits of study. In fact the results of a recent study revealed that, in a group of more than 90 college students who had ADHD students who were prescribed medication to manage their symptoms had their grades improved by an average of one letter grade.
The majority of drugs for ADHD fall into two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Amphetamines have a higher potential for dependence and abuse than methylphenidates. The more recent, longer-acting atomoxetine (Wellbutrin), and bupropion are less prone for misuse and dependency. Some people take a daily long-acting drug that has an immediate release dose in the late afternoon to reduce their concentration fluctuations. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart lists the class of medication, generic name, brand names, and length of the action.