ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One
Finding the right ADHD medicine takes a lot trial and trial and. The effectiveness of a medication is influenced by a variety of aspects such as metabolism side effects, the dosage, and the way in which a medication interacts with other drugs and supplements.
It takes a bit of time for stimulants to work however they can improve focus, attention, and impulsivity. They also boost levels of brain chemicals, such as dopamine and epinephrine.
webpage , also known as uppers, boost the body's functions, and make people feel more alert. Examples of stimulants are caffeine, one of the most popular drugs used to keep people awake and alert and prescription drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin), amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Vyvanse), and the lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). They also include illicit substances like crystal meth, cocaine and bath salts (synthetic cathinones) which are frequently abused by youngsters due to their stimulating effects. These drugs, when prescribed by a doctor, have been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms and performance in people who suffer from the disorder.
Prescription stimulants are generally safe when used correctly, but they are not without risk of side effects such as headache, insomnia, nervousness and stomach upset, tremors shaking, agitation and rapid heartbeats, as well as confusion. They also be a risk for dependence 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 more than 30 year methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and other prescription stimulants are available as pills, liquids as chewable tablets, chewable tablets and skin patches. The medications, known by their generic names as well as brand names such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Metadate, work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain and can help improve focus, behavior, as well as self-discipline. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release (long-lasting) versions.
Over-the-counter stimulant medications include atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). These are in a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SNRIs. They function by blocking the actions of a specific neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, in the brain. They don't aid in reducing the symptoms of ADHD however, they can be beneficial in combination with other treatments, such as nonstimulant medications and treatment for behavior.
Nonstimulant medicine
There are many non-stimulant drugs that have been approved by FDA to treat ADHD. They are generally simpler to use and have less adverse effects than stimulant medications. They may not be like stimulants and may take a few weeks before they begin to work. They can also be less addictive than stimulant medications and some doctors suggest them as a first option for adults.
The medications that are not classified as stimulants include clonidine (brand name Zanex) and alpha-2 adrenergic agonists such as guanfacine (brand name Tenex). These medications are often prescribed "off-label" which means that the FDA has not approved them to treat ADHD. They can help reduce ADHD symptoms by acting a sedative, and slowing down the activity of certain brain nerve cells.
Behavioral education and other forms of therapy are also essential components of treatment for ADHD. Training in behavioral therapy can teach children and adults with ADHD new ways to manage their symptoms, improve their social skills, and develop better strategies to manage conflicts and frustration. These techniques are most effective for children younger than or those with milder symptoms. These treatments aren't always effective in older children or adults with more severe symptoms of ADHD.