ADHD Medication List
The most popular ADHD medication is stimulant medications like Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They boost the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine to improve focus, reduce the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity.
These medications can cause side effects. Your healthcare provider can help you find the best dosage and medicine for you or your child.
Stimulants
Stimulants, which are the most popular type medication used by healthcare providers to treat ADHD are stimulants. They boost the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, allowing people to focus and focus their thoughts, and stay motivated. In most cases, 80% or more of children who suffer from ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms when the doctor prescribes the correct stimulant medication. Stimulants can be taken in the form of a patch, or as an oral injection. Some people suffering from ADHD take nonstimulant medication to improve their symptoms. It takes time to find out the appropriate medication, dosage and schedule for every individual with ADHD.
The first stimulant drug a person with ADHD tries might not work or cause a number of unpleasant side effects. If the patient doesn't notice improvement after a few weeks or if symptoms return the doctor may suggest a different medication.
Only prescriptions from a physician or other qualified doctor are accepted. They aren't available for purchase over-the counter (OTC). You should not take supplements or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD because they could interfere with the prescription you're taking.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs, including amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin) as well as dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (Ritalin). Most of these drugs come in pill form, however certain are available as chewable, liquid or patch tablets. The doctor might recommend long-acting or extended-release medications to limit the risk of abuse. These medications build up slowly in the bloodstream, and they fade slowly. This can help reduce the symptoms of what is called "the rebound effect," when a person's energy and mood drop when their medicine is finished.
These medications typically begin to take effect within 30-60 minutes and their effects last around 3-4 hours. Most people take them two or three times a day.
Short-acting stimulants can cause an "crash", which can cause people to feel angry hungry, tired, and fatigued. Some people with ADHD experience tics. adhd medications are repetitive sounds or movements, such as throat clearing or blinking of the eyes. These tics aren't caused by the medication, but can get worse if it is stopped.
The risk of addiction or abuse is minimal for any stimulant. However, this is not likely to happen in the low doses prescribed to treat ADHD. The risk is higher for young adults and teens and may be more for those with an history of substance abuse or mental illness.
Most stimulants can cause side effects such as stomach upsets, headaches and an increase in heart rate. These side effects usually go away after some weeks of taking the medication, but if they don't, talk to your doctor.
Patients with ADHD must inform their doctor if there is a history of anxiety, depression or heart disease high blood pressure. They should also tell their doctor if they take any other medications or drinks, as they may affect the effectiveness of the medication. It is also important to inform their doctor whether they have an alcohol-related family history, or any other mental health issues.