Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity symptoms by increasing brain chemicals. They also help reduce the frequency of tics and help people complete tasks.
They can be purchased in either a short-acting form or a long-acting version. Doctors may prescribe them alone or in combination with other medications.
Adderall
Adderall is a stimulant drug that helps treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It improves focus, decreases restlessness, and assists in controlling the impulsive behavior of interrupting others. It also helps improve listening and following instructions. It can be used by children as young as 3 years old, adolescents or adults. It can also be used to treat the sleep disorder narcolepsy, which is which is characterized by sudden periods of sleepiness in the morning.
Adderall works by altering a few of the chemical substances that are naturally present in your brain. It increases the amount of dopamine and norrepinephrine, which are natural neurotransmitters. This allows your brain to function more efficiently and improves its abilities in areas affected by ADHD, such as concentration and memory, as well as motivation. It also improves alertness and decreases restlessness in people suffering from Narcolepsy.
Stimulants can increase heart rate, which can be dangerous for people who have certain medical conditions or who are taking other medications. People with high blood pressure or a history of stroke, heart disease, or seizures should avoid taking stimulants. Patients suffering from kidney or liver disease, or glaucoma should also consult their doctor before taking stimulants. They can be misused and may cause harmful side effects such as addiction or an overdose.
Studies have shown that long-term use of stimulants, such as Adderall can increase a slightly higher risk of heart-related problems in women, people with a history of heart disease and those who are younger than 18 years old. However, the benefits of this drug far outweigh the dangers.
The first sign that Adderall is working is when you start to notice a change in your ability to be attentive and follow instructions. You can also tell that it is working by beginning to develop your organizational abilities. If you are having trouble sleeping, try avoiding caffeine and screen time (such as video or television games) during the hours leading up to bedtime.
Stimulants like Adderall can remain in your system for two to four days. If you're required to undergo a drug test for work or school it is a good thing to inform them.
Evekeo
Evekeo (amphetamine sulfate) is an ADHD medication that was approved by the FDA in 2014. It works by increasing the levels of two important neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. These chemicals are involved in the pleasure and reward pathways, as well as attention and focus. Taking Evekeo can improve the symptoms of ADHD however, it could also trigger side effects.
Stimulants like Evekeo may increase heartbeat and blood pressure. These changes can be severe and require hospitalization or treatment. Inform your doctor if there is a personal or family history of heart disease. Also, let your doctor know that you are suffering from other health issues or are taking any vitamins or supplements. Evekeo can interact with certain medications. Always tell your doctor if taking prescription or non-prescription drugs.
The most common adverse result of this medication is headache. It is also possible to feel nausea, dry mouth or tiredness. These symptoms usually go away within one or two weeks however, you should speak to your physician if symptoms persist or get worse. Evekeo can also trigger a rare condition called peripheral vasculopathy or Raynaud's phenomenon which can lead to tissue breakdown and digital ulceration. It is more likely to occur in children and adolescents and is worsened by the long-term use of stimulants.
Some people develop a psychological dependence this medication which is a serious issue that requires intervention. This can cause withdrawal symptoms if the drug is abruptly stopped or dosages are reduced. These withdrawal symptoms could include depressed mood, agitation and fatigue, as well as irritability and vivid or unpleasant dreams. Certain people can also develop tolerance, which means that they require greater doses to achieve the same effects. This can lead addiction and to other dangerous adverse effects. The overdose of this medication can also lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called rhabdomyolysis. This is a potentially fatal and dangerous adverse effect of amphetamines, including Evekeo.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed type of medication healthcare providers prescribe to treat ADHD. concerta adhd medication affects the neurochemicals in the brain and nerves that trigger hyperactivity and impulse control. It is FDA-approved for treating adults and children aged 6 and over. It aids healthcare professionals in improving their patients' concentration and reduce impulsivity. This allows them to perform better at work or school. It's also effective at decreasing mood swings and making it easier to fall asleep.
The drug comes in immediate-release and extended-release tablets and capsules. Medicines in the immediate-release category are available in pill form (Ritalin), liquid (Methylin) and chewable tablets (Melissa). The extended-release category is available in tablet (Concerta) as well as capsule (Methylin XR), and tablet (Methadose and Azstarys). To reap the maximum benefits, it's important to regularly take the medication. Some people experience a short period of fatigue, increased activity or bad mood when the effects of methylphenidate wear off. This is known as the rebound effect.
Like other stimulants, methylphenidate could cause an upset stomach headache, nausea and loss of appetite and sleeplessness. It can also increase blood pressure and heart rate. Taking it with meals can aid in avoiding these adverse effects. In certain instances, those with bipolar disorders can suffer from a mania attack while taking methylphenidate. It's not common however it's a good idea to discuss with your healthcare provider regarding your family's background of mental health issues.
There aren't a lot of non-stimulant medications that are specifically approved to treat ADHD. However, some healthcare providers might prescribe antidepressants to treat the condition. These medications increase the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. Most of them belong to two drug classes called norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 adrenergic agonists.
These medications do not have the same risk of misuse as stimulants do. However, they could cause serious health issues if taken incorrectly or in large doses. Non-stimulant medications may take longer to work than stimulants and can take up to 24 hours to attain their maximum effectiveness. They may also reduce the effectiveness of other prescription ADHD medications.
Non-stimulants
For many kids and adults, stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. They might not be effective for everyone, or they could cause unwanted negative side negative effects. In those cases, nonstimulant drugs can be beneficial. They can help improve focus and reduce impulsivity for adults and children with ADHD. These medications are available in the form of pills, liquids, or patches. They can also be mixed with stimulants or used on their own. Non-stimulant medications like Clonidine and atomoxetine work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters inside the brain.
Stimulants are among the most common drugs prescribed for ADHD, and they are also the most researched. They are also the most effective at helping kids and adults with ADHD focus and control impulsivity. They are either short-acting stimulants or long-acting stimulants. They typically start working between 30 and 45 minute and last between three and six hours. Doctors usually prescribe long-acting stimulation first, then add a short-acting stimulation for those who struggle to stay focused throughout the day.
There are a variety of different kinds of stimulant drugs. These include amphetamines and methylphenidate. These drugs are controlled and only available through an prescription. They can also be misused, which is why they are controlled substances. Nonstimulants don't carry the same risks of abuse and are less likely to cause negative side effects, such as addiction.
Nonstimulant medicines can be taken either by mouth or transdermally (through the skin). They are typically absorbed more quickly than stimulants, and do not require a long waiting period before they begin working. They can aid in reducing the impulsivity of adults and children with ADHD and are often combined with other treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy.
Some people experience side effects from these medicines however, they tend to be minor and disappear on their own as the body adjusts to them. Talk to your doctor in the event that they continue. They will help you determine if the side effects are normal and suggest ways to lessen the severity of them.