The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms For Best Medication For ADHD

The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms For Best Medication For ADHD

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Best Medication For ADHD

Children and teenagers taking ADHD medication tend to concentrate more effectively, have less impulsive, and are more calm. They also do better with schoolwork. Some experience a minor slowing in growth and could experience an increase in heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.

There are a variety of medications such as tablets, liquids patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most common stimulant. It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.

Stimulants

One of the best medications for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs enhance focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it assists in planning and organization abilities.

Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times per every day. They include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines may be a bit more potent and last longer than methylphenidates, but both work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release formulations. They can be a better option since they last between 8 to 12 hours and are usually taken once per day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquids to create a beverage, while others are pills.

Finding the right medicine can take a bit of time. Your doctor will monitor how you respond to the different types of drugs and alter the dosage as required. The use of medications should be a part of an overall treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to begin working however they can make you feel more in control and improve your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't affect dopamine and norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do, so they can be more secure to use for longer periods of time. They also have less side effects, such as constipation, heartburn and lessened sex drive. Strattera is the first of these medications that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of the selective reuptake of norepinephrine. Your doctor may prescribe other medication from this category which include here Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).

There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant group, like Tofranil (imipramine). These drugs are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work, or if they cause too many side effects.

Your doctor may also prescribe the atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have immediate effects however they can reduce impulsivity and improve concentration over time. These medications belong to a different class of drugs from the others and can trigger adverse effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and decrease impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but usually not severe side effects, including ringing in the ears or changes in vision.