Best Medication For ADHD
Most children and teenagers who take ADHD medication notice they focus better and are less impulsive. They also feel calmer and more focused with their school work. Some sufferers may experience a slowing of their growth or a rise in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medications.
There are many different types of medications such as tablets, liquids patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It comes in three forms: immediate-release, extended-release, and sustained-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. best adhd medication improve focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex region which is often called the brain's "secretary" because it aids in the planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes, and must be taken twice or three times per day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin, are among these. Amphetamines can be more potent and last longer than methylphenidates, however they work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. There are extended-release versions of certain stimulant medications. These can be a better alternative since they last from up to 12 hours and are usually taken once per day. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to create drinks, while others are pills.
Finding the right medicine can take a while. Your doctor will observe how you react to different types of medications and will adjust the dosage if needed. Drugs should only be used as part of a complete treatment plan that will include support and behavioral therapy services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little more time to work, but it can help you feel in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration, and improve your focus. These medications do not affect norepinephrine or dopamine like stimulants do. They are therefore able to be used for a longer time. These medications also have less side effects such as heartburn, constipation and a decreased sexual drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera and is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medications in this class.
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant family such as Tofranil (imipramine). These drugs are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or have too many adverse effects.
Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your doctor. These medications do not have a direct effect, but they can help reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a different drug category than the other options, and they can cause some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and decrease the risk of impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not usually serious adverse effects, like ringing in the ears or changes in vision.