ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter how the brain releases chemicals which influence concentration. Doctors typically start stimulants for ADHD patients, and gradually increase the dose until they are able to help.
Antidepressants are also used by those with ADHD (not just for depression). add adhd medications act using the same chemical as stimulants but have less side negative effects.
Stimulants
The first medication that doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. They work by increasing levels of two neurotransmitter hormones, dopamine and norepinephrine, which help people focus and decrease fatigue. These medications are usually prescribed to children, but they are also available to adults and adolescents. They are the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD in the United States, but they can cause a variety adverse effects. Some individuals need to switch between stimulant drugs or dosages to determine the right one for them. Others may need to combine their medications with other treatment methods.
Most ADHD medications are FDA-approved and have been through human trials to prove their effectiveness and safety. These medications can improve concentration, decrease symptoms of ADHD and help prevent issues with impulse control in children and adults. They can reduce the risk of relapse into addiction and help those suffering from ADHD learn to live more productive lives. Children who aren't treated for ADHD have a higher chance of developing drug-related problems later in life. Adults who aren't treated for ADHD are more likely to have motor vehicle accidents and to make risky decisions including taking risks while driving or playing the lottery.
The most common kind of ADHD medication that doctors typically prescribe is the medication methylphenidate (MPH, dexmethylphenidate, or Dextroamphetamine). It is available as a pill, capsule or a tablet that dissolves orally. It is also available as a longer-acting medication, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release), and medical patches. Generic versions of several brands of ADHD medications are now available. adhd medication names are cheaper and insurance companies may choose them. The chemical makeup of the medication is identical in the generic version as it is in the branded medication.
Amphetamines, also sometimes prescribed for ADHD have a higher chance of abuse and addiction. Schedule I drugs are illegal to sell or possess without prescription. Doctors are more cautious when prescribing amphetamines for those with an addiction history or agitation. They may also cause heart issues in certain people.
Non-stimulant drugs are only prescribed if stimulant medicines fail to work or if they cause undesirable side negative effects. These medications can take up to six weeks before they work and might require a dose or timing adjustment. They increase the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain, which assists with focus and attention. These drugs are prescribed to treat disorders like hypertension and depression, however they have been shown to decrease ADHD symptoms.
It's normal for you to test a variety of ADHD medications to determine the one that works best for you. Be patient and stay in touch with your doctor. They'll let you know whether your needs are changing, and will modify the medication or dosage.
It is important to remember that despite the remarkable improvements seen with some forms of ADHD medications, a comprehensive treatment approach is essential for managing symptoms and maximizing the results [11. Other options include CBT as well as behavior modification and dietary changes.