ADHD Medication Names
If medication isn't helping or the side effects aren't pleasant your doctor might want to test different medications. Some people take several ADHD medications to find the one that is most effective in controlling their symptoms and has minimal negative side effects.
Stimulants help treat ADHD by adjusting levels of two chemical messengers within the brain called norepinephrine and dopamine. The tablets are available in immediate-release and extended-release forms that are taken a few times each day.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed drugs to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels in the brain to improve attention and focus. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release formulations. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, methylphenidate) amphetamine, dextroamphetamine and amphetamine (Adderall, Vyvanse) and lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). These drugs are controlled substances that have a high potential for abuse. They may cause side effects such as anxiety tics and decreased appetite. Certain children taking these medications experience 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 physician's recommendations regarding the dosage of time, frequency, and duration of usage.
If stimulants are not effective or cause unwanted side effects, non-stimulant medications can be used to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine is an example of a non-stimulant medication approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It is part of a group called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. It boosts the levels of noradrenaline in the brain which can help control impulses and improves concentration. It is a capsule and is typically taken once or twice every day. best adhd medication for adults with anxiety and clonidine XR are two other examples of non-stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD. Both are in a class of medications known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptors that were initially developed to lower high blood pressure. They are commonly used "off-label" to treat ADHD due to their relaxing effect that can reduce hyperactivity, impulsivity and feelings of aggression.
Behavioral therapy is an effective treatment option for ADHD for adults and children and for those who don't wish to take medication. Behavioral strategies can aid in improving time management, organizational skills and learning habits. Other strategies include parenting education and cognitive behavior therapy.
According to research, for the majority of people suffering from ADHD symptoms of ADHD can be controlled or eliminated by making appropriate changes to diet and exercise. Some experts also recommend not eating foods that are known to cause ADHD.
ADHD and Drug Abuse
It is essential to educate patients about the dangers of consuming prescription stimulant medication. adhd treatment medication is important to encourage them to keep their prescriptions in a secure place and avoid sharing them with others. Remind them that taking stimulants along with other medications could have potentially life-threatening and dangerous effects.
In a recent Web-based survey of students who abuse ADHD medication, the desire to do better at school was mentioned as the main reason for drug abuse. Other reasons for misuse include poor sleeping habits, the need to complete academic assignments and an increased dependence on stimulants to overcome anxiety or mood swings.
ADHD treatment is a trial-and-error process to determine the most effective medication, dosage and timetable for a specific patient. The aim is to reduce the adverse effects of the medication while maximising its effectiveness. It requires time and open, honest communication between a physician or mental health professional and the patient to attain this. This is particularly true for children.