Best Medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who are taking ADHD medication report that they focus better, are less impulsive, feel calmer and get on with their school work. Some sufferers may experience a slowdown in their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure while taking these medications.
There are a variety of medication, including tablets, liquids patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate-release extended-release and sustained-release.
My Site of the most effective medications for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These drugs help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex that is often called the brain's "secretary" because it helps with organizing and planning skills.
Stimulants are available in both short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken two or three times per day. They include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, however they all work in similar ways to improve focus and attention. There are extended-release versions of some stimulant drugs. They can be a better option because they last up to 12 hours, and are usually taken once per day. Some of these medicines are a powder that you mix with liquid to create a drink, while others are in pill form.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will observe your reaction to different kinds of medications and adjust the dosage as needed. The use of medicines should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to begin working however they can help you feel more in control and increase your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine the same as stimulants do, which means they can be safer to use over an extended period of time. These medications also be less prone to side negative effects like constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both drugs in this class.
Non-stimulant antidepressants that are off-label are also available to treat ADHD. These are older medications within the tricyclic antidepressant family, such as Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only recommend these drugs in cases where stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or cause too many side negative effects.
Your doctor can also prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have an immediate impact, but they can help reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a distinct drug category than the other options and may cause certain side effects like shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause some unpleasant but not usually serious side effects such as hearing loss or changes in vision.