One Over The Counter ADHD Medication Success Story Youll Never Believe
ADHD Medications
The use of medication is a key tool in managing ADHD symptoms. It is an ongoing trial and error process to find the right dose that relieves symptoms without causing negative side adverse effects.
Stimulants are the most popular prescription drugs used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD. Examples include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse) and Clonidine hydrochloride (Kapvay).
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drugs that stimulate the central nervous system. They are commonly called "uppers" and include such popular drugs like caffeine and some prescription medicines that treat ADHD and other disorders. In general, stimulants boost the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine that aid brain nerves to communicate with one another. These medications increase energy, focus attention, and improve the quality of sleep. These medications reduce fidgeting and interruptions, as well as the difficulty completing tasks, in people suffering from ADHD. They can also improve their performance and relationships at work or school.
The most frequently prescribed stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall). Both longer and short-acting doses are available. The short-acting medication is peaking within several hours and needs to be taken between 2-4 times per day. The long-acting medication lasts for 8-12 hours and is typically taken every day. Some adults also take clonidine in addition to stimulants. It is part of the class of drugs known as centrally acting beta hypotensive agonists and targets areas of brain that control the impulsivity.
The majority of stimulants have side effects, but they can be controlled by starting with a lower dose and increasing gradually. The side effects can include insomnia, jitteriness and headaches, in addition to stomachaches and appetite loss. Other, more severe side effects include tremors and muscle tics. They can cause abdominal pain, blurred or distorted vision and confusion, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, or seizures. Patients with a history of bipolar or depression disorder should avoid stimulants since they can aggravate the symptoms.
Some people who take stimulants can develop psychiatric disorders that include hostility or aggression. They can also be more withdrawn, rigid, or less sociable. The use of stimulants for prolonged periods of time can also increase the heart rate and blood pressure. Abusing stimulants, especially among teens and young adults is a major problem. adhd no medication of the drug to boost energy and focus to study or pull all-nighters while at college.
There are nonstimulant ADHD treatments available, but they do not function the same as stimulants. Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree) function, in theory, by increasing the concentrations of norepinephrine and dopamine in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. These medications are suitable for some ADHD patients who have co-occurring disorders like Tourette Syndrome or anxiety.
A combination of behavioral therapy and stimulants is the most effective treatment for ADHD. It is important to discuss with your doctor the various options to determine the right medication for your child. Ask lots of questions and be patient. It could require a lot of trial and error before you can find the right medication to relieve your symptoms or those of your child. During this time you'll need to monitor behavior rating scales and observe any changes in class or at home behavior. Keep an eye out for any adverse effects and keep track of your child's weight as well as height and weight, heart rate and blood pressure.