Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
The use of medication can help manage ADHD symptoms but it's not a cure for the symptoms. It can take time to determine the best dosage and medication for you or your child. Your doctor's communication must be honest and open.
Stimulants
These medications are the first treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They increase levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. About 70% to 80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms following the discovery of the correct stimulant drug and dose.
As a first-line treatment, doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates for kids and teens who have ADHD. They also may prescribe amphetamines, which are much more efficient in adults and have fewer side effects. Stimulants work on two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. adhd and anxiety medication with heart issues must be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulants experience side effects. The majority of these side effects will go away within some days or weeks. If they don't, talk to your doctor about changing the medication or locating an alternative that is better for you or your child.
The most commonly reported side effects of stimulants include weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and difficulty staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become more withdrawn, listless or rigid or display obsessive-compulsive behaviours. Others may experience an increase in anxiety or depression, which is why it is crucial to consult with an expert in mental health before taking stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can trigger anxiety and increase blood pressure. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches, and loss of appetite. They also can lead to an increased risk of addiction. Stimulants are not habit-forming in the low doses used to treat ADHD, but they can be addictive if misused or taken in large doses.
Non-stimulant medications require longer to get started and don't last as long as stimulants, but they can improve concentration and focus, and decrease the impulsivity. The majority of these medications are based on antidepressants, and they act on the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed by themselves or together with stimulants. This is especially applicable when a person has anxiety, depression and ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students with ADHD who are treated with medication have shown that they can achieve GPAs comparable to those of their peers if they adhere to good studies. In fact an earlier study found that, in a study of more than 90 college students suffering from ADHD, those who used medication to manage their symptoms had their grades improved by an average of one letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two drug classes amphetamines or methylphenidates. adhd anxiety medication are more prone to be misused and develop dependence than methylphenidates. However, the more modern, longer-acting atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower risk of misuse and dependence. Some people take an anti-depressant that acts long daily, with an immediate-release dose during the mid to late afternoon to reduce 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 lists the class of medication, brand name, generic name, and length of the action.