Finding the Best Medication For ADHD
The most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. They include methylphenidates and amphetamines. Short-acting stimulants start working within less than a minute and need to be taken several times per day. Long-acting stimulants last up to 16 hours, and are usually taken just once per day.
Your doctor might prescribe antidepressants and other types of medications "off-label" to treat ADHD symptoms. These are drugs approved to treat other disorders such as anxiety or depression.
Stimulants
The most frequently used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They improve alertness, concentration, and reduce impulsivity. They do this by reducing the absorption of dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These are two neurotransmitters that boost brain activity and help different parts of the brain communicate with one another. These are controlled substances because they have the potential for abuse. Anyone who uses stimulants must be wary of counterfeit versions. They are typically more potent, and carry higher risks of addiction and overdose. The stimulants can be consumed daily or on a weekly basis or "as needed". Most people start with a small dose and increase it gradually. Doctors will monitor your or your child's progress with these medications by having you complete scales of behavior, observe symptoms, and measure height, weight, pulse and blood pressure measurements.
Amphétamines and Methylphenidates are the most frequently prescribed stimulants to treat ADHD. They are available in short-acting as well as long-acting versions. Short-acting drugs are consumed more often than once per day. Long-acting medications are taken only once a day. Short-acting stimulants have a less rapid action, beginning to work within 30 to 45 minutes and lasting between 3 and 6 hours. Long-acting drugs have a longer action and begin to work after about 2 to 4 hours, and lasting up to 12 hours.
These medications can cause adverse reactions such as heart problems as well as high blood pressure and appetite suppression. These medications may also cause a jittery sensation or headache. Inform your doctor about any adverse effects so they will determine if you need to change the medication or decrease the dosage.
The majority of children and adults with ADHD who are taking medication will experience at the very least some adverse effects. It is essential to choose an effective treatment plan for your family, so you can be as efficient as possible. It's also crucial to follow the doctor's advice and report any changes in your your child's mood or symptoms.
Nonstimulants are typically used when a person experiences an adverse reaction to stimulants or doesn't react well to them (up to 30 percent of people don't respond to stimulant medications). FDA has approved four nonstimulant drugs for treating ADHD. These include Atomoxetine (Strattera), Qelbree (Guanfacine) and Strattera (Qelbree). adhd medication uk for adults , such as Wellbutrin are prescribed "off-label" as part of ADHD treatment. These drugs are less prone to misuse and are less likely to cause agitation or insomnia. However, they're not as effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.