ADHD Medications
The use of medications for ADHD can help improve focus attention, concentration and control of impulses. Doctors prescribe two types of ADHD medications: stimulants and nonstimulants.
Stimulants increase brain chemicals, including norepinephrine and dopamine. Examples include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based medications such as Adderall.
Children and teenagers respond differently to medication. Doctors monitor for any side effects and adjust the dosage to find the right medicine and dosage.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the first medications most doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain which improves mood and attention. They also help treat anxiety and depression. They are available in various forms, including pills, liquids, and patches. The stimulants can cause adverse effects, which are typically minor. They will disappear after a certain period of time. Doctors can prescribe different types and doses of stimulants to people with specific needs.
Amphétamines are the most common stimulants. They include the drugs Adderall, Concerta, Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methylphenidate. They were previously abused by people who didn't have ADHD as a way to boost energy levels, improve confidence and social skills and create the sense of an "rush" or increased productivity. The CDC states that the number of deaths due to overdose due to the use of prescription stimulants has increased over the past decade.
How Stimulants Work
The majority of stimulants are absorbed rapidly and are absorbed into the brain within 20 minutes. adhd medication for adults uk raise blood pressure and heart rate, which can be dangerous when they are consumed in large doses. They can also cause an unusually rapid weight loss, which can cause other health issues. People with high risk of suffering from a heart attack should not take stimulants.
Many people suffering from ADHD improve with long-acting stimulant medication that lasts throughout the day. You can also take a shorter-acting medication in the evening or in late afternoon to help you get through the most difficult part of your day at work or school as the long-acting medication wears off.
Short-acting stimulants can be taken in a dose that is needed, and can last about four hours. Some people feel an immediate decrease in mood or energy following the use of a drug with a short-acting mechanism. This is called the "crash" effect. This can lead to an intense feeling of hunger and fatigue. It can also lead to other medical problems such as an increase in blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat.
Long-acting stimulants for ADHD generally last from six to eight hours. Some of them have an extended release, which means they break down slowly over time to provide an ongoing dose for longer periods of time. Long-acting stimulants tend to be the most preferred treatment for adults with ADHD and children who are older.
Xelstrym, a patch that is FDA-approved that contains the amphetamine dextroamphetamine is a patch that can be worn throughout the day. It works in a similar way to a regular prescription-strength dextroamphetamine pill. Mydayis is a newer form of dextroamphetamine. It comes in capsules that can be taken every day when you first get up.
Other ADHD Medications
A few people with ADHD don't respond to stimulants, and other medications are usually prescribed. Nonstimulants may be taken alone or in conjunction with stimulants. Nonstimulants have been approved for the treatment of ADHD such as atomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine. If stimulants aren't working, you can try clonidine and guanfacine. Behavioral therapy is a good option for people who aren't responding to medications. This is the process of learning how to manage symptoms and changing negative behavior. The most effective treatment methods combine behavioral therapy with other pharmacological treatments.