Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. These medications boost levels of the neurotransmitter hormones norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. This improves concentration and helps to control the impulsive behavior.
uk adhd medication are available in tablets or patches (lisdexamfetamine). It is best to opt for long-acting stimulant products, which deliver medication throughout the entire day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs for ADHD. They work quickly and reduce ADHD symptoms for 70-80 percent of children who take them. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and decreases fatigue. Methylphenidate is an stimulant that is widely used to treat ADHD. It is available in liquid or chewable tablet form and can be consumed up to three times a each day. Amphetamines are sometimes prescribed for ADHD. They are a little stronger than the methylphenidates. These drugs can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure and heart rate and those with preexisting medical conditions should consult their doctor.
Stimulant medicines can lead to addiction if they are misused, which means taking more than the prescribed dosage or mixing them with other substances or alcohol. Individuals who use them according to the directions however, are not at an increased risk of addiction. Some evidence suggests that ADHD medication can aid people at risk of using substances to avoid addiction.
The FDA has approved various kinds of stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. They are usually available in generic form, meaning that the chemical formulation is similar to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe the medication that is most suitable for you or your child.
Your doctor will begin with a low dose and observe how you or your child responds before altering the dosage. Then your doctor will determine if you need to change to a different medicine or add a second one.
The effects of stimulants can be adverse like dry mouth, decreased appetite and changes in sleep or mood. Certain adolescents and children who take them experience tics, which are sudden movements or sounds like eye blinks or throat clearing. Certain studies have demonstrated that stimulants can cause a slight reduction in height for some adolescents and children.
Non-stimulant drugs are slower to take effect than stimulants but can still increase concentration. They may take three to four weeks to have a noticeable effect. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues in certain people. They are typically prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant medication for ADHD.
Antidepressants are also effective in treating ADHD. They affect the levels of serotonin inside the brain. Certain medications, such as selective serotonin retake inhibitors (SSRIs), have shown to improve impulsivity and focus in people with ADHD.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medicines are rare and hard to come by. Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD in addition or instead of stimulants if the adverse effects are too severe for you. They can also help improve memory and decrease the impulsivity and aggression of some adults with ADHD. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are usually prescribed in conjunction with stimulants and can be more effective than stimulants alone.