Best Medication For ADHD

Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to concentrate better, be less impulsive, and are more calm. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some experience a minor slowing of growth and have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.

Medications are available in different forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most effective adhd medication for adults popular stimulant. It is available in three forms: immediate release, extended-release, and sustained-release.

Stimulants

Stimulants are a class of drugs that can be effective in treating ADHD. These drugs aid in improving focus and attention by affecting certain neurotransmitters within over the counter adhd medication brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex that is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it aids in the planning and organization skills.

Stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines peak within 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken two or three times per day. They include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are more potent and last longer, however they All adhd Medications work in similarly in improving attention and focus. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release versions. They can be a better alternative since they last from up to 12 hours and are usually taken every day. Some of these medications are powders that is mixed with liquid to make a drink, and others are pills.

It may take some time to find the right medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will observe how you react to different kinds of medications and will alter the dosage as required. The use of medication should be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes support and behavioral therapy.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to work but it can make you feel in control, increase your concentration and impulsivity and help you focus. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do, which means they can be more secure to use for a longer period of time. They can also have fewer negative effects, including constipation, heartburn and reduced sex drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera and is an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both drugs within this category.

There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older drugs in the tricyclic antidepressant family like Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many adverse side effects.

Your doctor can also prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have a direct effect but they may help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. They're in a distinct drug class from the other choices and can trigger certain side effects like headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor may also suggest taking a low dose of an antidepressant, called bupropion (Wellbutrin) that is not a FDA-approved treatment for ADHD but can be effective to improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable, but generally not serious adverse effects, including hearing ringing or changes in vision.