Types of ADHD Medication
The first class of medication doctors prescribe for ADHD is called stimulants. These medications boost the brain chemical activity dopamine and norepinephrine.
Short- and long-acting stimulant pills are available. Taking the long-acting variant of these drugs will allow you to take the medication continuously throughout the day, which minimizes side effects from ups and downs in the levels of drugs.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular and, in general, the most effective type of treatment for ADHD. About 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD benefit from stimulants. They do this by increasing brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which can affect your ability to focus and pay attention. Stimulants come in many forms, such as tablets, pills, extended-release (ER), and orally disintegrating tablets. Your doctor will recommend the best option for you, based on whether or not you wish to take it with food, how fast it works, and any possible side effects you have.
how does medication for adhd work is the most commonly prescribed ADHD stimulant. Concerta, Focalin and Daytrana are also used. how does medication for adhd work belong to a class of drugs known as methylphenidates. Other medications within this class include atomoxetine Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv, and Kapvay.
They aren't deemed to be addictive in the doses that are used to treat ADHD. They can cause problems like loss of appetite, sleep problems and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. They may also interact with certain medications or medical conditions.
Doctors should closely monitor people who suffer from ADHD who are taking stimulants. It may take a while to determine the right dosage and kind of medication for each person. It is crucial to openly communicate with your doctor and report any side effects or negative changes, for example, a sudden shift in mood or appetite. Also, let types of adhd medication know how the medication affects you or your children.
Since the 1960s, stimulant medicines are prescribed to treat ADHD. They are safe when taken at the dose prescribed. They are effective for 70 to 80 percent of both children and adults and can help reduce hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity symptoms. They can reduce fidgeting, interrupting and improve interpersonal skills and learning.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulants will need to continue taking them for the rest of their lives, though some are able to decrease or eliminate them. The use of medications is often paired with other forms of treatment, such as behavioral therapy and training for skills.
Nonstimulant medications can be beneficial when stimulants don't work or cause undesirable adverse effects. They can improve the way stimulants function and help you or your child focus in a controlled manner, manage impulses, and pay attention. These medicines are usually part of a class of medications for high blood pressure, known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, were employed "off-label" for ADHD for many years before they became FDA approved to treat the condition.
The medications in this class are the guanfacine, clonidine and a brand new medication known as Atomoxetine (Strattera). These medications are in a different drug class than the methylphenidates. They are less likely to cause side effects, however they don't perform as efficiently. These drugs boost the amount of norepinephrine that is produced in the brain which is responsible for controlling emotions and paying attention. It could take up to six weeks before they start working, but most people notice improvement within a few days. They can be used on their own or in combination with stimulants to enhance how they function together.