ADHD Medication List
The most commonly used ADHD medication is stimulant medications like Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They increase levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
These medicines may cause adverse effects. Your healthcare provider can help you find the best dosage and medicine for your child or yourself.
Stimulants
Stimulants, which are the most popular type medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which help people to focus and think clearly. They also help people remain motivated. In the majority of instances, 80% or more of children suffering from ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms when the doctor prescribes the right stimulant medication. Stimulants can be taken orally, by patch or injection. Certain people with ADHD also take nonstimulant medications to alleviate symptoms. It takes time to find the right medication, dosage and schedule for each individual with ADHD.
The first stimulant drug a person with ADHD uses may not be effective or cause unpleasant side effects. If symptoms recur, or a person does not see improvement after several weeks, the doctor may try another medication.
The medication is only available with a prescription from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. They are not available over the market (OTC). It's not recommended that people take vitamins or supplements that claim to treat ADHD. They could interfere with your prescription.
There are many types of stimulant medications, including amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin), dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (Ritalin). The majority of these medications are in pill form, but certain are available as chewable, patch or liquid tablets. To reduce the risk of misuse, a doctor may recommend medications with a long-acting or extended-release. These medicines build up gradually in the bloodstream, and disappear slowly. This helps reduce the symptoms of "the rebound effect," which is when the person's mood and energy levels decrease when their medication wears off.
The drugs usually begin to work after 30-60 minutes and their effects last for about 3-4 hours. Most people who take them will take them two or three times daily.
Short-acting stimulants can cause the sensation of a "crash", which can cause people to feel angry hungry, tired, and fatigued. Some people suffering from ADHD suffer from tics. These are repeated sounds or movements, such as throat clearing or blinking of the eyes. These aren't caused due to the medication, but they may become worse when it's discontinued.
There is a slight chance of addiction and abuse with any kind of stimulant, but it is not likely in the low doses used to treat ADHD. The risk is higher for teens and young adults, and may be greater for people with an addiction history or mental illness.
The most common side effects of stimulants are stomach upset, headaches and an increase in heart rate. These side effects usually disappear after a few weeks of taking the medication, however in the event that they don't, speak to your doctor.
People suffering from ADHD must inform their doctor whether they have any history of anxiety or depression and are breastfeeding or pregnant or have a heart condition or high blood pressure. They should also tell their doctor if they take any other medications or drinks, as they may affect the effectiveness of the medication. adhd medication is also important to inform their doctor that they have a family history of alcoholism or other mental health issues.