Best Medication For ADHD

Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to concentrate more effectively, have less impulsive, and are more calm. They also get on with schoolwork. Some people may experience a slight slowing of their growth or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when they are taking these drugs.

They are available in various forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It comes in three forms: immediate release, sustained-release and extended-release.

Stimulants

Stimulants are a class of drugs that are effective in treating ADHD. These drugs improve concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is sometimes called the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in organizing and planning skills.

Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes, and must be taken two or three times a day. These include methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, however they both work the same way in improving attention and focus. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release forms. These can be a better option since they last between up to 12 hours and are usually taken once per day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquid to make a drink, and others are in pill form.

It may take a while to find the right medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will monitor your response to different types of medicines and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medication should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to start working but they can help you feel more in control and increase your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications do not alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do. They are therefore able to be utilized for a longer period of time. They can also have fewer negative effects, including heartburn, constipation and a lessened sexual drive. Strattera is the first of these medications that was approved by the FDA to treat how adhd medication works. It's an inhibitor of the selective reuptake of norepinephrine. Your doctor may prescribe other medications from this group which include the guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).

There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are prescribed off-label to treat uk adhd medication. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant group, like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors will only recommend these medications when stimulants and other non-stimulants aren't working or cause too many adverse negative effects.

Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your physician. These medications do not have an immediate impact, but they can help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. They're in a distinct drug class from the other choices, and they can cause some side effects such as headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor may also recommend a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin), that isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects like ringing or changes in vision.