Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medicine can help to manage ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for the symptoms. It can take some time to find the dosage and medication that works best for you or your child. Honest and open communication with your doctor is essential.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial option for treating children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common medications prescribed by healthcare professionals to help people with ADHD. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which affect the ability to focus, attention and movement. Around 70 to 80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms after identifying the right stimulant drug and dose.
Doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for kids and teens suffering from ADHD. They also may prescribe amphetamines, which are more effective for adults and cause less side consequences. Stimulants work on two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. Heart patients should be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
Many children and adults who take stimulants will experience some adverse effects. However, the majority of the time the side effects go away after a few weeks, or less. If they do not go away talk to your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that performs better.
The most common stimulant side effects include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and having trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become more withdrawn rigid, numb or irritable, or they may show obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Certain people may experience worsening anxiety or depression. This is why it's crucial to talk to an expert in mental health prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants increase blood pressure and heart rate, which may make some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also trigger stomachaches, headaches and a decrease in appetite. They can also lead to an increased risk of a substance abuse. In low doses, stimulants used to treat ADHD do not create a habit. However medication for adhd and anxiety can be addictive if misused or in high doses.
Non-stimulant medication takes longer to take effect and doesn't last as long as stimulants. However, they can increase focus and concentration and decrease the risk of impulsivity. These medications are mostly made up of antidepressants and work on norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They can be prescribed alone or in combination with stimulants. This is especially applicable when a person suffers from depression, anxiety, or ADHD.
Students suffering from ADHD treated with medication can achieve GPAs that are comparable to their peers if they follow good study habits. In fact, a recent study showed that, in a study of more than 90 college students suffering from ADHD those who were prescribed medication to manage their symptoms had their grades improved by an average of a letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications are classified into two drug classes amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphétamines are more prone for abuse and dependence than methylphenidates. However, the more modern longer-acting atomoxetine as well as bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower dangers of abuse and dependence. Some people supplement an anti-depressant that acts long every day with an immediate release dose between mid- to late afternoon, to limit 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 outlines the class of medication, generic name, brand name and length of action.