ADHD Medications
Certain medications may be beneficial to people with ADHD as well as counseling and therapy. These medications help balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, which increase attention and decrease hyperactivity.
It could take some time to determine the right medication for you. Your health care provider will be able to observe how the medicine works and help you create the right schedule to meet your needs.
Stimulants
adhd stimulant medication of certain medications on brain chemicals that are involved in ADHD can help improve concentration, focus, and impulse control. Doctors prescribe two main types of drugs: stimulants and nonstimulants. The kind of medication your child or you needs will depend on the severity of symptoms and your medical history.
The most common ADHD medication is stimulants. They function by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which boosts the ability to focus and decreases hyperactivity. They are available in both long- and short-acting varieties. Short-acting stimulants last for just a couple of hours, while long-acting ones stay in the body for the entire day long.
The majority of children with ADHD take stimulant medications but they can also be employed to treat adults suffering from the disorder. Most doctors recommend starting with a low dosage before moving up to the appropriate amount. It may take a while to find the right dose for you or your child. You may also have to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your doctor in order to alter your dosage.
The effects of stimulant medication tend to be minor and fade within several days. They may include a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and an increase in heart rate or blood pressure. If you or your child suffers from a medical condition that increases the risk of certain adverse reactions the doctor will discuss these with you before prescribing any medication.
In some cases the use of excessive doses of stimulants could result in a sudden rise in heart palpitations, blood pressure, or even seizures. These medications are not recommended for patients who have an ancestor with a history of heart disease or for those who have a history of drug abuse. They can also cause a worsening of certain mental disorders, such as bipolar disorder and depression and anxiety, so it's important to talk to your doctor about whether they're appropriate for you or your child.
Nonstimulant ADHD medication is less likely to cause serious side effects, and it's often a second-line option for those who don't react to stimulants. They can include the atomoxetine (Strattera), Clonidine (Kapvay), or guanfacine (Intuniv). Sometimes they are prescribed "off-label", to treat other conditions such as depression or anxiety disorders.
The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and drisperidone (Dilantin). Both are available in tablets, liquids, and capsules. They are typically taken by mouth one or twice per day. You or your child may wear tablets with extended-release (Intuniv or IntunivXR) that contain atomoxetine and/or guanfacine. These pills can be worn up to two weeks before they require replacement. All ADHD medication comes with some dangers, and there's always the possibility that they will not perform as expected or cause adverse effects. But for many people, especially children and teens The benefits outweigh the risks. The ability to focus, concentrate and manage impulses is a significant asset for a lot of people.