ADHD Treatment Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain chemical levels which aid in concentration, focus and control of impulses. Doctors prescribe them in extended-release and immediate release forms. Stimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine/dexroamphetamine compounds (Adderall, Vyvanse).
These are the most frequently used medications prescribed to adults with ADHD. Doctors often combine them with antidepressants in order to improve the way they work.
Stimulants
The most common prescription medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost brain chemicals, like dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals aid people to manage their impulses and focus. The most commonly prescribed stimulant medication for treating ADHD for adults and children. It comes in tablet and liquid forms, and can be taken up to 3 times per daily. adhd medication pregnancy of methylphenidate on children and teens can include stomachaches, headaches, or changes in appetite. These medicines can also increase heart rate and blood pressure, so they shouldn't be used by people with heart problems.
Stimulant medicines can have a lasting effect. They are usually prescribed as a long-acting formula that means the drug is slowly released into the body for between 8 and 12 hours. The long-acting drugs can be particularly useful for people with ADHD who often miss school, work or other family responsibilities because of their inability to remain on task. They are generally deemed safe to be taken long-term in the right doses by medical professionals and studies show that they do not affect IQ or social interactions.
Long-term use of stimulants can lead to personality changes like the loss of spontaneity and talkativeness or a reduction in withdrawnness and lack of motivation. It can also trigger mood changes, including depression. This is why doctors only recommend using stimulants for short periods. In certain instances, people who are taking stimulants may become addicted to the drug.
A newer category of drugs for treating ADHD are nonstimulant medications. They don't directly impact dopamine or norepinephrine however they affect a chemical called noradrenaline in the brain transmits messages between brain cells. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera (trade name), and guanfacine, also known as Zyprexa (trade name), are FDA-approved nonstimulant medications for ADHD.
Nonstimulant medicines take longer to begin to work, but once they do, they improve people's ability to concentrate and control their emotions. They can also reduce symptoms of impulsivity as well as reduce anxiety. They are prescribed by health professionals alone or in combination.
The nonstimulant and stimulant medications do not work in the same way for everyone, so it may take a few times to find the dose and schedule that works best. Doctors will be able to closely track a person's response to the medication and make adjustments if needed.
The treatment of ADHD isn't just about taking medication. It's also important that the person with ADHD receive psychosocial therapy. Therapists can teach you strategies to manage symptoms and improve your relationships, such as time management and organization strategies. They can also help people learn to recognize stress and develop strategies to cope. Certain diets have been proven to be beneficial for some people with ADHD. However cutting out certain foods without consulting a doctor is not recommended.