Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
The use of medication can help control ADHD symptoms, but it won't cure it. It may take some time to find the dosage and medication that work best for your child or yourself. Honest and open communication with your doctor is key.
Stimulants
adhd without medication are the first treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed prescriptions by doctors to treat people suffering from ADHD. They increase the levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect focus, attention and movement. Around 70 to 80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD notice improvements in their symptoms following the discovery of the correct stimulant drug and dosage.
As a first-line treatment doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates to teenagers and children with ADHD. They may also prescribe amphetamines, which are much more effective in adults and produce fewer side consequences. Stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. Heart-related patients need to be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants will experience side effects. But most times these side effects will disappear within a few weeks or less. If they don't, consult your doctor about changing the medication or locating another one that works better for you or your child.
The most frequent effects of stimulants are the loss of appetite, trouble sleeping and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Certain people experience personality changes. Certain people may experience worsening of anxiety or depression. This is why it's important to talk to a mental health professional prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may make some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches and a decrease in appetite. They can also lead to an increased risk of a substance abuse. They aren't habit-forming when they are in the low doses that are used to treat ADHD However, they can create addiction if they are misused or taken in large doses.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to work and does not last as long as stimulants. However, they do increase focus and concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. A majority of these drugs are based on antidepressants, and they affect the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed by themselves or in combination with stimulants. This is especially relevant when a person suffers from depression, anxiety or ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students with ADHD who are treated with medication have found that they can earn GPAs comparable to those of their peers if they follow a good set of study habits. A recent study found that college students with ADHD who were prescribed medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by a letter grade.
Most medications for ADHD are classified into two drug classes: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphétamines are more prone to be misused and develop dependence than methylphenidates. The newer, longer acting atomoxetine (Wellbutrin), and bupropion have less risk for abuse and dependence. Some people take a daily long-acting medication with an immediate release dose in the afternoon to reduce their fluctuation in concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart outlines the class of medication, the generic name, brand name, and duration of action.