Teenagers and children taking ADHD medication tend to focus more effectively, have less impulsive, and feel calmer. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowing of growth and experience an increase in heart rate or blood pressure while taking these medicines.
Medications are available in different forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It comes in three forms: immediate-release, sustained-release and extended-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drugs that can be effective in treating ADHD. These drugs enhance focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex, which is often called the brain’s “secretary” because it aids in the planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines peak within 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a every day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, concerta adhd medication and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines are more potent and last longer, however they both function in similarly in improving attention and focus. There are also extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. These are a better choice since they last from 8 to 12 hours and are usually taken daily. Some of these are powders that is mixed with liquid to create drinks, while others are in pill form.
Finding the right medication may take some time. Your doctor will monitor your reaction to different kinds of medications and adjust the dosage if necessary. The use of medicines should be a part of an overall treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.
Non-stimulant adhd medication for adults uk medications can take a bit longer to begin working however they can make you feel more in control and increase your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These medications don’t alter dopamine or norepinephrine the same way that stimulants do, so they are safer to use for a longer period of time. These medications can also be less prone to side effects such as constipation, heartburn and reduced sexual drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat adhd medication brands uk is called Strattera, and it’s an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor might prescribe other medications from this group, including Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are available off-label to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant family like Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non medication treatment for adhd adults-stimulants do not work or if they have too many adverse effects.
Your doctor may prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don’t have an immediate impact however they can reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs from the others and can trigger adverse effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects such as ringing or changes in vision.