ADHD Medications
Medicines are an essential part of treatment for ADHD. They don't solve the problem, but they do help control symptoms.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used medications for ADHD. They work by increasing the activity of the brain in areas that regulate behavior, attention and other aspects.
The medication can trigger adverse effects, such as stomach upset and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate and tics. These side effects are typically mild to moderate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used medications to treat ADHD. They increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which aid in focusing and decrease the impulsive behavior. They can also cause short-term side effects such as weight loss and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate. These medications can rapidly improve symptoms of ADHD for the majority of people, however they are not able to cure the condition. Your doctor will prescribe a medication based on your ADHD evaluation results and your tolerance to the side effects of the medicine.
There are two primary types of stimulant medications: methylphenidates and amphetamines. The methylphenidate category includes Adderall and Ritalin. These drugs come in short-acting and long-acting versions. Adderall XR, Vyvanse and Adderall XR are the longer-acting versions.
Medications in this group are the most commonly used and effective in treating ADHD, but they do have a high potential for misuse or abuse and addiction. People who do not suffer from ADHD often use them to feel more alert and lose weight, or give themselves an "buzz" or "high." If people who suffer from ADHD use these medicines properly under the supervision by their physician they will not develop a dependence.
Finding the right stimulant medicine for your child or yourself may take time. Always inform adhd medication online if you experience any adverse side adverse effects. Your doctor will then alter the dosage of your medicine and determine the best dosage for you.
Loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and a higher heart rate or blood pressure are all possible side effects of stimulant medications used to treat ADHD. They can also cause irritability anxiety, and nervousness, particularly when taking higher doses. These side effects usually happen in the initial few days or weeks of taking the medicine and then disappear as your body adjusts to it.
Your doctor will need to consider your other health conditions before prescribing a medicine. If you have a history or heart disease your doctor might not prescribe stimulants. The same is true for those suffering from depression or anxiety. In these instances, your doctor may prescribe a nonstimulant or pair a stimulant and an anti-anxiety medication like Strattera (atomoxetine) to enhance their effectiveness.
Nonstimulant medications for ADHD take a bit longer to start working however they are less likely to be misused or abused as stimulants. They are typically prescribed when stimulants fail to work or cause unpleasant side effects.
Unlike most other drugs, ADHD medicines are not available on the market. Vitamins or minerals that claim to treat ADHD do not have any scientific backing and may interact with prescription drugs. Your doctor can recommend specific diet changes that will aid in managing ADHD symptoms and reduce the need for medication. Your doctor may also suggest the use of behavior therapy and training to increase your ability to control the impulses that cause anxiety and to organize your life. Combining treatment is usually the most effective strategy.