ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter the way the brain releases chemicals that can affect concentration. Doctors typically start stimulants for ADHD patients and gradually increase the dosage until they are able to help.
Antidepressants are also taken by people with ADHD (not just for depression). These drugs work on the same chemicals as stimulants, but have fewer negative side effects.
Stimulants
The first medication that doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. They help by increasing levels of two neurotransmitter hormones known as dopamine and norepinephrine, which can help people focus and reduce fatigue. These drugs are typically prescribed for children, however they are also available for adults and adolescents. These medications are the most commonly prescribed for ADHD in the United States. However, they can cause a wide variety of adverse effects. Some individuals need to switch between stimulant medications or dosages to find the right one for them. Some people need to mix their medications with other methods of treatment.
Most ADHD medications are FDA-approved and have been through trials on humans to prove their effectiveness and safety. These medications can aid in improving concentration, reduce symptoms of ADHD and can help prevent impulse control problems in both children and adults. They can decrease the risk of future substance abuse, and help people with ADHD to live a more productive life. Research shows that untreated adolescents with ADHD are more likely to have drug-related problems as adults. Adults who are not treated for ADHD are more at risk of having motor vehicle accidents, and making risky decisions such as gambling or driving while impaired.
The majority of doctors prescribe methylphenidate as the initial ADHD medication. It is available in the form of capsules, tablets or orally disintegrating tablets. concerta adhd medication is also available as a long-acting drug, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release) and medical patches. Generic versions of many brand-name ADHD medication are now available. They are cheaper and insurance companies may choose them. The chemical formula of the medication is exactly the same in the generic version as it is in the brand-name medication.
Amphetamines can be prescribed to treat ADHD but they also have a great potential for abuse and addiction. They are classified as a Schedule I drug, which means it is illegal possess or sell them without a prescription. Doctors are more cautious when prescribing amphetamines to people with histories of substance abuse or agitation. They can also cause heart-related problems in some people.
Non-stimulant medications are only prescribed when stimulant medicines fail to perform or produce unpleasant adverse side negative effects. These medications can take anywhere from four to six weeks to start working and may require to be adjusted in dosage or timing. They increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain, which assists with attention and focus. These medications are prescribed to treat other ailments like depression and hypertension, but they have been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It's normal to have to try a variety of ADHD medications before you can find the one that is most effective for your specific needs. Be patient and remain in touch with your doctor. They can alter your dosage or medication when needed.
It is important to understand that despite the positive effects of some ADHD medication, it is still important to take an entire approach to control symptoms and improve results [1]. In addition to medication, other options include behavior modification, CBT and dietary adjustments.