ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One
Finding the best ADHD medication requires lots of trial and trial and. Effectiveness is influenced by a variety aspects that include metabolism as well as side effects and how a medication interacts with other medications and supplements.
It takes a bit of 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
The stimulants, also referred to as uppers, boost the body's functions and can make people feel more alert. Examples of stimulants include caffeine an ingredient that is commonly used to keep people alert and awake as well as prescription drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin) amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Vyvanse), and lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). These stimulants could also be illegal substances such as crystal meth, Cocaine and bath salts (synthetic catshinones), which are often abused among young people. These drugs when prescribed by a doctor have been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms and performance in people who suffer from the disorder.
When used correctly prescribed stimulants are generally safe. However, they may cause adverse effects, like insomnia, nervousness and headaches as well as stomach upsets, tremors and shakiness or agitation, rapid pulse, confusion, and tremors. There is also a substantial chance of addiction and abuse. If taken in higher-than-prescribed doses or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to overdose and death.
Since the past 30 years dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate and other prescription stimulants have been available in the form of liquids, pills chewable tablets, chewable tablets, and skin patches. The medications, known by their generic names as well as brand names like Adderall, Ritalin, and Metadate, work by increasing dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels inside the brain. They can also help improve focus, behavior, and self-control. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release (long-lasting) versions.
Over-the-counter stimulant medicines include atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). These drugs are part of a class called selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and inhibit the action of norepinephrine inside the brain. types of adhd medication do not help with symptoms of ADHD however they can be beneficial in combination with other treatments like nonstimulant medication or behavioral therapy.
Nonstimulant medications
FDA has approved several nonstimulant medication to treat ADHD. They are usually easier to take than stimulant medications and have less side consequences. They don't work as fast as stimulants, however they may take a few weeks to start working. They are also less addictive than stimulant medication, and some doctors even recommend them as a first choice for adults.
Clonidine (brand names Zanex and Tenex) are alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonists that are not stimulants. These are generally used "off-label" for ADHD which means that they are not specifically approved by the FDA to treat this condition. However they can be useful in decreasing ADHD symptoms by acting as a sedative and slowing the activity of certain neurons in the brain.
Treatment for ADHD also includes a variety of behavioral education and other forms of therapy for behavioral disorders. Adults and children suffering from ADHD can benefit from behavioral training to develop new strategies for managing their symptoms, improve social skills, and create strategies to manage conflicts and anger. These treatments are most effective for younger children or those who have milder symptoms. These treatments aren't always effective for older children or adults who have more severe symptoms of ADHD.