Its The Myths And Facts Behind Medication For ADHD

Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medicine can help to manage ADHD symptoms however it isn't a cure for them. It may take time to determine the best dosage and medication for your child or yourself. Communication with your doctor must be honest and open.
Stimulants
These drugs are the initial treatment option for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which impact concentration, attention and movement. About 70-80 percent of both adults and children with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms after finding the right stimulant and dosage.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine and Ritalin) as the first-line treatment option for children and teens suffering from ADHD. medication for adhd may prescribe amphetamines that are more efficient in adults and have less adverse effects. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine, and dopamine. People with heart problems must be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
Many children and adults who take stimulants will experience some side effects. The majority of these adverse effects will subside within several days or weeks. If they don't go away talk to your doctor about changing your medication or finding one that works better.
Some of the most frequent effects of stimulants are an increase in appetite, trouble sleeping and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They might become withdrawn rigid, unfocused or inactive or display obsessive-compulsive behaviours. Others can have a worsening of anxiety or depression. This is the reason it is essential to consult with an expert in mental health prior to starting stimulant medications for ADHD.
Stimulants raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may make people feel uneasy or anxious. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches and loss of appetite. They also can lead to an increased risk of substance abuse. The stimulants aren't habit-forming in the low doses that are used to treat ADHD, but they can cause addiction if used in excessive doses.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to start working and do not last as long as stimulants do, however, they can help improve attention and focus and reduce impulsivity. The majority of these medications are based on antidepressants, and they act on the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed as a stand-alone medication or in conjunction with stimulants, especially when a person has anxiety and depression in addition to ADHD.
Students with ADHD treated with medication may achieve GPAs that are comparable to their peers if they adhere to good study habits. A recent study found that college students with ADHD who took medication to treat their symptoms increased their grades by one letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two drug classes amphetamines or methylphenidates. Amphétamines are more prone for dependence and abuse than methylphenidates. The latest, more effective atomoxetine (Wellbutrin) and bupropion have lower risks for misuse and dependency. Some people take a daily long-acting drug that has an immediate release dose in the late afternoon to decrease their fluctuations in concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). adhd medication names following chart outlines the class of medication, brand name, generic name, and duration of action.