Best Medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who take ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and more focused with their schoolwork. Some may experience a slight slowing of growth and experience an increase in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medicines.
The medications are available in a variety of forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most common stimulant. It comes in three forms: immediate release, extended-release and sustained-release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These medications improve focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex region, which is often called the brain's "secretary" because it helps with organizing and planning abilities.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken twice or three times a day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines may be a bit stronger and last longer than methylphenidates however they work in the same way to increase attention and focus. There are also extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. They are the best choice since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are typically taken daily. Some of these are a powder that is mixed with liquid to make drinks, while others are in pill form.
It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will watch how you respond to the different types of drugs and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medications should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to work, but it can help you feel in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration and increase your concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the way that stimulants do, so they can be more secure to use over a longer period of time. They website also have less side effects, such as constipation, heartburn and reduced sexual drive. The first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera and is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor may prescribe other medications from this group which include the guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant group, like Tofranil (imipramine). These drugs are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work, or if they have too many adverse effects.
Your doctor may also prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications do not have a direct effect however they can reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. These medications are in a different class of drugs from the others and can cause negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help increase concentration and decrease the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects like the ringing of your ears or changes in your vision.