Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medicines can manage ADHD symptoms but will not cure it. It can take some time to find the dosage and medication that works best for your child or you. Honest and open communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
These medications are the first line of treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most popular medication healthcare professionals prescribe to people suffering from ADHD. They increase the levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect focus, attention and movement. Around 70% to 80% children and adults with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms when they have found the right stimulant and dosage.
As a first-line treatment doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates to teenagers and children with ADHD. Amphetamines can also be prescribed, because they are more effective and have fewer adverse effects in adults. Stimulants work on two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. People with heart conditions should be monitored closely when taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants will experience adverse effects. Most of the time, these adverse effects will subside within several days or weeks. If they don't disappear consult your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that works better.
Some of the most common side effects of stimulants include a loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Some people experience changes in their personality. Others may experience a worsening of anxiety or depression. This is why it is crucial to consult with an expert in mental health prior to starting stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can make some people feel nervous or anxious. They can also trigger headaches, stomachaches and a loss of appetite. They can also lead to an increased risk of a substance abuse. In low doses stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD are not habit-forming. However, they can be addictive if misused or in high doses.
Non-stimulant medication takes longer to work and does not last as long as stimulants. However, they can enhance focus and attention, and reduce the risk of impulsivity. These drugs are primarily based on antidepressants and act on norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They can be prescribed as a single or in combination with stimulants. This is especially true when a person also suffers from depression, anxiety, or ADHD.
Studies of academic performance among students with ADHD who are treated with medication have shown that they can achieve GPAs that are comparable to their peers, if they use good study habits. A recent study showed that college students with ADHD who were prescribed medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by one letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two drug classes - methylphenidates or amphetamines. adhd medication for adults uk are more likely to be abused and become dependent than methylphenidates. However, the more recent longer-acting atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower dangers of dependence and misuse. Some people take an anti-depressant that acts long every day with an immediate release dose between mid- to late afternoon, to reduce fluctuations in their concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart lists the medication class, generic name, brand names, and length of action.