Types of ADHD Medication
There are a myriad of medications used to treat ADHD. It may take time to discover the best one for your child or you.
sources , such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) helps to reduce symptoms by boosting levels of certain brain chemicals. Some people who use these drugs experience a sudden decrease in energy and an "crash" after the drug wears off.
Short-acting
Drugs that regulate behavior can benefit a lot of kids with ADHD. These medications can help children learn how to finish their work and build better relationships. These medications can also decrease annoying or distracting behaviors. Parents and doctors should collaborate to determine which medication is best for their child. Children respond differently to medicines, so it is important to find the right medication for each child. A health care provider may recommend a combination of medication and other treatments including counseling.
There are two kinds of medication that treat ADHD in children, teens and adults: stimulants and other medications. Stimulants act on brain chemicals that affect attention and impulse control. They are either short-acting (lasting just a few hours) or long-acting (lasting all day). Some people experience side-effects such as a decreased appetite or sleep problems. Doctors usually can find a medication with a few or no adverse effects for the majority of people.
The most common medicines used to treat ADHD are known as stimulants, and include methylphenidates and amphetamines. The Drug Enforcement Administration regulates them as Schedule II drugs because they are high-risk for misuse and abuse when not taken as directed. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are a few examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These medications could cause serious health issues if they are not taken as prescribed. It is important to consult your doctor before taking them.
Stimulants should not be used for children younger than 6. Some children may require a different drug or a lower dose. Before prescribing medication your doctor will look for other conditions that may be the cause of the symptoms in your child. They will ask about your child's symptoms, habits and family history. They will also conduct an exam to check for issues with hearing or vision. They may also inquire about your child's diet and sleeping patterns. They'll want to know whether your child suffers from allergies. The doctor will then issue the prescription as well as instructions on how to use it. It is recommended to check in with your doctor regularly to determine whether the medicine is helping.
Long-acting
ADHD medications can help you focus your brain the same way a pair of glasses can improve your vision. They boost levels of chemicals that are important for attention and focus. There are two main types: stimulants (e.g. amphetamines and methylphenidates, etc.)) and non-stimulant medications.
Stimulant meds, which work for 70-80% of the people with ADHD, come in short- and long-acting forms. Long-acting ADHD medications are administered in phases, with one portion of the dose released right after taking the morning pill and the rest released throughout the day. They can reduce the number of pills needed to take per day and are simpler to remember and deliver more consistently the dosage of medication than short-acting drugs. They also have fewer side-effects and "ups and downs" when compared to short-acting drugs.
Non-stimulant
Medications can help ease ADHD symptoms for about 70 percent to 80% children and adults, enhancing their ability to concentrate and control impulsivity. They also help improve their school performance as well as social skills. In fact medication is the initial line of treatment for most people with ADHD. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other treatments, such as behavior therapy.
Stimulant medicines, such as Ritalin and Adderall are effective in increasing the levels of neurotransmitter hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This improves the efficiency of messages sent between nerves, which helps people focus and control impulsivity. Stimulant medications are available as immediate-release, extended-release or long-acting tablets. The most popular stimulants are Ritalin Concerta Adderall Vyvanse. The instant-release version, which is administered in small doses throughout the day to provide rapid symptom relief, is typically taken in smaller doses. The extended-release and longer-acting versions are usually taken once daily and provide prolonged symptom relief.
The Food and Drug Administration has approved a variety of nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine, a.k.a Strattera, is the most commonly prescribed nonstimulant drug. A newer medication, called Qelbree, is another option. These drugs don't contain methylphenidate, amphetamine or other controlled substances. They are less likely to be a source of abuse because they aren't controlled.
Clonidine and Guanfacine can also be considered non-stimulant drugs. These are more likely to be prescribed to those who suffer from a combination of ADHD and Tourette syndrome. They require several weeks before they start working and reduce tics and anxiety. These medications can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
The medications aren't always effective or well tolerated. The first medication that a person takes for ADHD may not be the best choice or cause unwanted side effects that are unpleasant or intolerant. The doctor can help by changing the dosage or switching to another medication.
It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you or your child is taking including prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as supplements. This information helps prevent interactions between medications. It is also important to let your healthcare professional know about any changes in behavior or mood that might indicate a problem with the medication.