Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medication can help control ADHD symptoms, but it won't cure them. It can take some time to determine the right medication and dosage that work best for you or your child. Your doctor's communication should be open and honest.
Stimulants
These medications are the first treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They boost levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed prescriptions by doctors to help people with ADHD. These drugs increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which impact the ability to focus, attention, and movement. Around 70-80% children and adults with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms when they find the right stimulant and dose.
As a first-line treatment doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates for kids and teens who have ADHD. They also may prescribe amphetamines, which are much more efficient in adults and have less side negative effects. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. People with heart conditions should be closely monitored when taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants will experience side effects. The majority of these adverse effects will subside within several days or weeks. If they don't, consult your doctor about changing the medication or finding another one that works better for you or your child.
Some of the most common side effects of stimulants include the loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. Some people experience changes in their personality. Some people experience worsening anxiety or depression. This is why it's important to consult an expert in mental health prior to beginning stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants can cause anxiety and a rise in blood pressure. They can also trigger stomachaches, headaches and a loss of appetite. They can also result in an increased risk of substance abuse. The stimulants aren't habit-forming in the low doses that are used to treat ADHD however, they could be addictive if misused or taken in high doses.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to begin working and don't last as long as stimulants do, but they can improve attention and focus and reduce the impulsivity. The majority of these medications are based on antidepressants, and they work by affecting the brain chemical norepinephrine. They can be prescribed alone or in combination with stimulants. This is especially relevant when a person suffers from depression, anxiety, or ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have revealed that they can attain GPAs that are comparable to their peers, if they follow a good set of studies. In fact the results of a recent study revealed that in a group of more than 90 college students who had ADHD, those who used medication to manage their symptoms had their grades improved by an average of one letter grade.
Most medications for ADHD are classified into one of two drug classes: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphetamines have a higher potential for dependence and abuse than methylphenidates. However, the more recent longer-acting atomoxetine and bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower dangers of misuse and dependence. Some people take a once-daily long-acting drug with an immediate-release dose in the afternoon to decrease their concentration fluctuations. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). medication for inattentive adhd following chart shows the class of medication, the generic name, brand name and length of action.