ADHD Medication Names
If your medication isn't working or side effects are bothersome, your doctor may want to look at different medications. Some people will try a variety of ADHD medications before finding the one that is most effective in controlling their symptoms and has the fewest side negative effects.
Stimulants help treat ADHD by adjusting the levels of two chemical messengers within the brain called norepinephrine as well as dopamine. They are available in extended-release or immediate-release tablets that are taken every day for one hour.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most popular drugs used to treat ADHD. They boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to help increase focus and attention. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release forms. The most frequently prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) amphetamine, dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Vyvanse) and the lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). These are controlled substances with a high abuse potential. These drugs can result in side effects like anxiety, tics, and decreased appetite. Children who are taking these medications may have a slight delay in their growth. Stimulant medications can also increase a person's blood pressure and heart rate. It is essential to follow the doctor's advice regarding the dosage and frequency of the use.
Non-stimulant drugs can be used to treat ADHD when stimulants aren't effective or cause unpleasant side effects. Atomoxetine is an example of a drug that isn't that has been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It belongs to a class called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. It works by increasing the levels of a substance in the brain known as noradrenaline, which helps with concentration and control of impulses. It is a capsule and is typically taken one or twice every day. Guanfacine XR and clonidine XR are two examples of other non-stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD. Both belong to a class called alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists, which was initially developed to lower high blood pressure. They are commonly employed "off-label" to treat ADHD because they have a calm effect that can ease anxiety, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. of aggression.
Behavioral therapy is a successful treatment option for ADHD in both adults and children as well as for those who don't want to take medications. Behavioral strategies can help improve time management, organizational skills and studying habits. Other strategies include parenting education and cognitive behavior therapy.
According to research, for the majority people suffering from ADHD, symptoms of ADHD can either be managed or eliminated through changes to diet and exercise. adhd and medication recommend not eating foods that are known to cause ADHD.
ADHD and Drug Abuse
It is important to educate patients about the dangers of misusing prescription stimulant medication. Encourage them to keep their medication in a secure place and to not share the medications with others. Remind them that taking a stimulant with other medications, like over-the counter cold medications, could cause dangerous and life-threatening side effects.
In a recent Web-based survey of students who use ADHD medication and want to do better at school was identified as the primary reason for using the drug. Other reasons for misuse include poor sleeping habits and the need to complete academic tasks and an increase in dependence on stimulants in order to overcome depression or stress.
ADHD treatment is a trial-and-error method to determine the best dosage, medication, and schedule for a particular patient. The goal is to minimize negative side effects while maximizing the drug's effectiveness. To accomplish this, it requires time as well as honest and open communication between the patient and an expert in mental health. This is especially true for children.