ADHD Treatment Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain chemicals, which aid in concentration, focus and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them in extended-release and immediate-release forms. Stimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine/dexroamphetamine compounds (Adderall, Vyvanse).
These are the most common medication prescribed to adults suffering from ADHD. Doctors often mix them with antidepressants to enhance their effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most popular prescription medications that healthcare professionals employ to treat ADHD. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals help people focus and control their impulses. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication for treating ADHD for adults and children. It comes in tablet and liquid form and can be taken as often as 3 times per day. The side effects of methylphenidate for adolescents and children can include headaches, stomachaches, or changes to appetite. These medications can also raise heart rate and blood pressure therefore they should not be used by people with known heart problems.
Stimulant medicines can have a lasting effect. They are often given as a formula that has a long-acting effect that means the drug is released slowly into the body for between 8 and 12 hours. Long-acting medications are particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD who are often absent from school, work or other family obligations because they can't stay on task. Doctors generally consider them safe to be taken in the appropriate dosages for a long time. Research shows that they have no negative effect on IQ and social interactions.
Long-term use of stimulants can trigger personality changes in certain people for example, becoming more introverted and unfocused or less talkative and spontaneous. They can also cause mood swings, including depression. This is the reason why doctors only recommend using stimulants for short periods. In some cases, people who are taking stimulants could develop a dependence on the drug.
A newer category of drugs for treating ADHD are nonstimulant medications. adhd medication ritalin don't directly impact dopamine or norepinephrine but instead there is a chemical called noradrenaline within the brain that transmits messages between brain cells. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera (trade name), and guanfacine, also known as Zyprexa (trade name) are FDA-approved non-stimulant drugs for ADHD.
Nonstimulant medicines take longer to start working however, once they do, they can enhance the ability of people to concentrate and manage their emotions. They can also reduce symptoms such as impulsivity or anxiety. Healthcare providers may prescribe them alone or in combination with stimulants.
The nonstimulant and stimulant medications do not work the same way for everyone, so it may take a few attempts to find the dosage and timetable that works best. Doctors will closely track a patient's response to medication and adjust the dosage if needed.
The use of medication is only one aspect of an ADHD treatment plan, and it's important for a person with ADHD to be treated with psychosocial therapy, too. Therapists can help teach strategies to manage symptoms and improve relationships, including time management and organizational strategies. They can also help a person learn how to recognize stress and develop coping strategies. There are also certain diets that have been proven to help some people with ADHD however, removing food items without medical advice is not advised.