Choosing adhd stimulant medication For ADHD
Medication can control ADHD symptoms, but it isn't a cure for it. It may take some time to find the dosage and medication that work best for your child or yourself. Open and honest communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial line of treatment for adults and children with ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most popular medication healthcare professionals prescribe to treat people suffering from ADHD. These drugs increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which affect the ability to focus, attention, and movement. About 70 to 80 percent of children and adults suffering from ADHD see improvement in their symptoms when they discover the right stimulant and dose.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including Atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for children and teens with ADHD. Amphetamines can also be prescribed, since they are more effective and have less adverse effects in adults. Stimulants work on two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. People with heart conditions should be monitored closely when taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants experience side effects. Most of the time these side effects will disappear within several days or weeks. If they don't, talk to your doctor about changing the medication or locating a different one that works better for you or your child.
The most frequent stimulant-related side effects are the loss of appetite, difficulties sleeping, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become shy rigid, unfocused or inactive, or they may show obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Some people can experience a worsening depression or anxiety. This is why it's essential to talk to an expert in mental health prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may make people feel uneasy or anxious. They can also cause headaches, stomachaches and a loss of appetite. They can also increase the risk of using substances. In small doses stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD aren't habit-forming. However they can be addictive when misused or used in large doses.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to work and doesn't last as long as stimulants. However, they can improve focus and attention and decrease the impulsivity. Most of these medications are based on antidepressants, and they affect the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed alone or together with stimulants. This is particularly true when a person also suffers from depression, anxiety or ADHD.
Students suffering from ADHD who are treated with medication can achieve GPAs that are comparable to their peers if they follow good study habits. A recent study revealed that college students with ADHD who were treated with medication to treat their symptoms increased their grades on average by a letter grade.
The majority of medications used to treat ADHD are classified into one of two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Amphétamines are more prone to be abused and become dependent than methylphenidates. The latest, more effective atomoxetine (Wellbutrin), and bupropion are less prone for abuse and dependence. Some people take a once-daily long-acting medication with an immediate-release dose in the late afternoon to reduce their concentration fluctuations. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart outlines the medication class as well as the generic and brand names, and length of the action.