ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter how the brain releases chemicals that influence focus. Doctors usually start patients with ADHD on stimulants and work up to the highest dose that aids them.
Antidepressants are also prescribed to people suffering from ADHD (not only for depression). These medications work with the same chemicals as stimulants, but have fewer adverse effects.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the first medications doctors usually prescribe for ADHD. They increase levels of two neurotransmitter hormones known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These hormones aid in focusing and reducing tiredness. These medications are often used for children, however they are also available for adolescents and adults. They are among the most commonly used drugs for ADHD in the United States, but they can trigger a variety of adverse effects. Certain people need to switch between stimulant medication or dosages in order to find the one that works best for them. Others need to combine their medication with other treatment methods.
The majority of ADHD medications are FDA-approved and have been through human trials to demonstrate their safety and effectiveness. These medications can improve concentration, ease symptoms of ADHD and prevent problems with impulse control in children and adults. They can decrease the risk of future substance abuse, and help those suffering from ADHD be more productive. Research suggests that children who aren't treated with ADHD are more likely to have drug-related problems as adults. Untreated adults with ADHD are more at chance of getting involved in motor vehicle accidents, and making risky decisions like gambling or driving while impaired.
The majority of doctors prescribe methylphenidate as the primary ADHD medication. It is available in the form of capsules, tablets or orally disintegrating tablets. It is also available as a longer-acting medication, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release) as well as a medical patch. Many brand-name ADHD medications are now available as generic versions, which are priced less and are often preferred by insurance companies. The chemical makeup of the medication is exactly the same in the generic version as it is in the branded medication.
Amphetamines are often prescribed to treat ADHD but they also have a significant chance of abuse and addiction. They are a Schedule I drug, which means that it is illegal to possess or sell them without a prescription. Doctors are more cautious about prescribing amphetamines to people who have had an history of substance abuse or agitation. adhd and anxiety medication may also experience heart problems when taking amphetamines.
Non-stimulant medicines are only prescribed if stimulant medications do not perform or cause unpleasant adverse side negative effects. These drugs can take up to six weeks before they work and might require a dose or timing adjustment. They increase the activity of the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine which helps people concentrate and pay attention. These drugs are prescribed for other conditions like depression and high blood pressure, but have been found to decrease ADHD symptoms.
It's normal to need to try several ADHD medications to determine the one that is most effective for you. Be patient and remain in contact with your physician. They will be able to adjust your medication or dosage if you need to.
It's crucial to know that despite the positive effects of certain ADHD medications, it is still important to take an entire approach to control symptoms and achieve the best results [11. In addition to drug therapy other options include behavior modification, CBT and dietary adjustments.