Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD
Medication can control ADHD symptoms, but it will not cure it. It can take some time to determine the right dosage and medication that works best for your child or yourself. Your doctor's communication should be open and honest.
Stimulants
These drugs are the first line of treatment for adults and children with ADHD. They increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain.
Stimulants
The most common medication prescribed by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. These drugs increase levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. About 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms once they have found the right stimulant and dosage.
Doctors typically prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine and Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for kids and teens suffering from ADHD. Amphetamines are also prescribed as they are more effective and have less negative side effects for adults. The stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine and dopamine. People with heart problems should be closely monitored if taking stimulants.
Children and adults who are taking stimulants will experience side effects. However, most times, these side effects disappear within a few weeks or less. If they don't, consult your doctor about changing the medication or looking for a different one that works better for you or your child.
The most frequent effects of stimulants are the loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and trouble staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become shy rigid, unfocused or inactive or display obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Certain people may experience worsening of anxiety or depression. This is why it's crucial to consult an expert in mental health prior to starting stimulant medication for ADHD.
Stimulants raise blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also cause stomachaches, headaches, and a decrease in appetite. They also increase the risk of using substances. The stimulants aren't habit-forming in the small doses used to treat ADHD However, they can create addiction if they are misused or taken in large doses.
Non-stimulant medications require longer to get started and don't last as long as stimulants, but they can improve concentration and focus, and decrease the risk of impulsivity. These medications are mostly based on antidepressants and act on norepinephrine, which is a brain chemical. They can be prescribed as a stand-alone medication or in conjunction with stimulants, especially if the patient suffers from depression and anxiety in addition to ADHD.
Studies of academic performance in students who suffer from ADHD who are treated with medication have shown that they can earn GPAs that are comparable to their peers, provided they adhere to good study habits. In fact an earlier study found that, in a study of more than 90 college students with ADHD students who used medication to manage their symptoms improved their grades by an average of one letter grade.
The majority of ADHD medications are classified into two drug classes amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphetamines have a higher potential for abuse and dependency than methylphenidates. The more recent, longer-acting atomoxetine (Wellbutrin) and bupropion have less risk for abuse and dependence. Some people add an anti-depressant that acts long daily, with an immediate-release dose during the mid to late afternoon, to reduce fluctuations in their concentration. medication for inattentive adhd for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart lists the class of medication as well as the generic and brand names, and length of action.
