ADHD Medication List - Which One is Right For You?
Medication is a key component of many ADHD treatment plans. It can be difficult to choose the right medication for you, with so many available.
Stimulants, like Adderall XR, Vyvanse and Ritalin can help improve ADHD symptoms for 70% to 80percent of adults and children. These drugs increase the communication between nerves and regions of the brain, which help with concentration and controlling impulsivity.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the first medications most doctors recommend for adults and children with ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitter hormones namely dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This improves focus and reduce impulsive behaviors and aggression. They also help to reduce fatigue and increase energy. These medications are available in a variety of forms, such as capsules, tablets, and liquid. Some people use stimulants to treat their addiction but, when taken under the guidance of a doctor they can be very effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
The most commonly used stimulants to treat ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamines. They come in immediate-release (short acting), intermediate-release, and long-acting types. Long-acting medicines are preferred by doctors because they provide symptom relief all day long and minimize the "rebound effect" that occurs when symptoms come back after the medication has worn off.
Side effects of stimulant medications include stomach upsets, headaches and heart rate increases and sleep problems. In some cases, they may also decrease the blood pressure of an individual or cause their heart rate to slow down which can be dangerous for those with cardiovascular problems. They can also trigger tics which are frequent, rapid motions or sounds that sound like eye blinks or a throat clearing. These aren't harmful however they can cause distress to certain people. It is important to talk to your doctor about them.
It can take time to determine the right medication and dosage for someone with ADHD. A doctor will observe the reaction of a patient to the medication and adjust the dosage until a suitable dose is determined. Medicines will not treat ADHD symptoms, therefore they should be taken regularly for as long as the person needs them.
Nonstimulant medications are available if stimulants do not work or if side effects are too severe. These drugs can take a bit longer to work and start working than stimulants. They don't increase the risk of abuse, but they can be used as a supplement to stimulants. Nonstimulant medications can be used for ADHD such as atomoxetine, and guanfacine as well as clonidine. These drugs are also used to treat depression and anxiety. They are not recommended by pregnant women or infant children, but they may be beneficial when used when combined with other options for treating ADHD. If a person does not respond to the use of nonstimulant or stimulant medications, talk to your doctor about other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or physical activity. There are other supplements that can help with ADHD symptoms, like omega-3 fatty acids and herbal solutions. Iam Psychiatry with ADHD find they benefit from these supplements due to the fact that they are not harmful and do not pose the same risk as prescription medication. A healthy diet can improve ADHD symptoms. A doctor can help the person organize their eating habits and recommend healthy food choices that can boost concentration and increase focus.