20 Irrefutable Myths About Best Medication For ADHD: Busted

Best Medication For ADHD

The majority of children and teens who are taking ADHD medication find they concentrate better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and get on with their school work.  adhd adults medication  in growth and may have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these drugs.

The medications are available in a variety of forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most popular stimulant. It's available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts with extended-release.

Stimulants

One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs enhance concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often called the "secretary of the brain" because it helps in planning and organization skills.

Stimulants are available in short-acting as well as long-acting dosages. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken two or three times per every day. These include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, but they both function in similar ways to improve attention and focus. There are extended-release versions of some stimulant drugs. They are the best choice because they last for 8 to 12 hours and are generally taken only every day. Certain of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquids to create drinks, while others are pills.

It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will observe how you react to various types of drugs and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medications should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medications can take a bit longer to begin working but they can make you feel more in control and improve your impulsivity, concentration and focus. These medications do not alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way stimulants do. They can therefore be used for a longer time. They also have less side effects, such as heartburn, constipation and a decreased sexual drive. Strattera is the first of these medications that was approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of selective reuptake. Your doctor may prescribe other medications from this group, including guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).

There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant group, like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only suggest these drugs in cases where stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many adverse negative effects.

adhd for adults medication  or Atomoxetine may be prescribed by your doctor. These medications don't have an immediate impact, but they can help reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. These medications are in a different class of drugs compared to the others and can cause side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and decrease impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects like hearing loss or changes in vision.