ADHD Medications
Medications for ADHD can aid in improving concentration, attention, and control of impulses. Doctors commonly prescribe two types of drugs which are stimulants and nonstimulants.
Stimulants increase the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Examples include methylphenidate, known as Ritalin, and amphetamines-based medications like Adderall.
Children and teens respond differently to medications. Doctors will be able to monitor side effects and adjust the dose and medicine to find what works best for each child.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the first medication most doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They boost the levels of chemical in the brain known as neurotransmitters that improve attention and mood. The stimulants are also used to combat anxiety and depression. They come in a variety of forms, including pills or liquids, patches, and chewable tablets. The stimulants can cause adverse effects, but they tend to be minor and fade disappear with time. Doctors can prescribe different types and doses of stimulants to people with specific needs.
The most popular stimulants are amphetamines. They comprise the drugs Adderall, Concerta, Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methylphenidate. They were used by people without ADHD to boost energy, increase confidence and sociality, and create the sensation of "rush" or increased productivity. The CDC has reported an increase in the number of deaths due to prescription stimulant abuse over the last decade.
How Stimulants Work
The majority of stimulants are absorbed rapidly and reach the brain within about 20 minutes. They can increase blood pressure and heart rates which is risky when taken in large doses. They can also trigger a rapid, uncharacteristic weight loss, which can cause other health issues. People with a high risk of heart attacks should not take stimulants.
Many people with ADHD improve with long-acting stimulant drugs that last throughout the day. You can also take a shorter-acting medication in the evening or in late afternoon to help you get through the toughest part of your school or workday as the long-acting medication has worn off.
Short-acting stimulants are taken as needed, and last approximately four hours. Some people experience a drop in mood and energy when they have a dose of short-acting stimulant, which is sometimes called the "crash effect." This can cause an intense feeling of hunger and fatigue. It could also trigger other medical issues like an increase in blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat.
Long-acting stimulants for ADHD typically last between six to eight hours. adhd medication ritalin have an extended release. This means that they break down slowly over time to provide a constant dose for longer periods. Long-acting stimulants are a preferred type of medication for adults and older children with ADHD.
The Xelstrym patch is FDA-approved that contains amphetamine drug dextroamphetamine and is able to be worn continuously. It works in a similar way to a regular prescription-strength dextroamphetamine pill. Mydayis, a newer dextroamphetamine formulation that is available in capsules, can be taken at the time you get up each day.
Other ADHD Medications
Some people with ADHD do not respond to stimulants. Other medications are prescribed. Nonstimulants may be taken alone or in conjunction with stimulants. Nonstimulants are approved to treat ADHD such as atomoxetine, guanfacine, and viloxazine. If stimulants don't work then you can try guanfacine and clonidine. Behavioral therapy may be beneficial for some people who don't respond to medications. This requires learning to manage symptoms and changing negative behavior. The most effective treatment strategies incorporate behavioral therapy with other pharmacological therapies.