ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter the way that the brain releases chemicals that affect concentration. Doctors usually start patients with ADHD on stimulants and increase the dose that aids them.
Antidepressants are also used by people with ADHD (not only for depression). These drugs work on the same chemicals as stimulants but have fewer negative side effects.
Stimulants
The first drug that doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. Read Home Page increase levels of two neurotransmitter hormones known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These hormones can help people focus and reduce tiredness. These drugs are typically prescribed for children, but are also available for adults and adolescents. They are the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD in the United States, but they can cause a variety of adverse reactions. Certain people need to switch between stimulant drugs or dosages to determine which one is the most effective for them. Some people need to mix their medications with other treatment methods.
Most ADHD medications are FDA-approved and have been through human trials to demonstrate their effectiveness and safety. These medications can help improve concentration, stop issues with impulse control, and help reduce the symptoms of ADHD in adults and children. They can reduce the likelihood of future substance abuse, and can help those with ADHD to live a more productive life. Research shows that untreated adolescents with ADHD are more likely to suffer from problems with their drugs as they grow older. Adults who aren't treated for ADHD have a higher chance of getting involved in motor vehicle accidents, and making risky decisions such as gambling or driving while impaired.
The most common kind of ADHD medication most doctors prescribe is methylphenidate (MPH dexmethylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine). It is available as a tablet, capsule or as oral disintegrating tablets. It is also available as a longer-acting medication, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release) and a medical patch. Many brand-name ADHD medications are now available in generic versions that cost less and are often preferred by insurance companies. The generic medication has exactly the same chemical composition as the brand-name medication.
Amphetamines are often prescribed to treat ADHD but they also have a great potential for abuse and addiction. They are a Schedule I drug, which means it is illegal to possess or sell them without the prescription. Doctors are more cautious when prescribing amphetamines to people who have had a history of substance misuse or anxiety. They can also cause heart-related problems in a few people.
Non-stimulant medicines are only prescribed when stimulant medicines fail to work or if they cause undesirable side negative effects. These medications can take up to six weeks to take effect and may require a dosage or timing adjustment. They increase the activity of norepinephrine within the brain, which aids with focus and attention. These drugs are prescribed for other conditions, such as depression and high blood pressure however, they have been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It's normal that you will have to test a variety of ADHD medications before you discover the one which works best for your needs. Be patient and keep in contact with your doctor. They will be able to adjust your medication or dosage should you require.
It is important to remember that despite the significant improvements seen with some forms of ADHD medications, a comprehensive treatment approach is vital to manage symptoms and maximizing outcomes [11. Other options include CBT behavior modification, CBT, and changes to diet.