ADHD Medication Names
Medications ease symptoms of ADHD in about 70% to 80% of adults and kids. They can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity and help children focus. The health care team will assess how well the medicine is effective and may alter the dosage or frequency of use.
Stimulants help neurons pass along signals. Examples include methylphenidate, which is sold under the brand names Ritalin or Concerta, and dexamfetamine, which is sold under the brand name Vyvanse. Both atomoxetine and guanfacine- both alpha agonists - are used to treat ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most widely employed ADHD medication can assist patients of all ages manage their symptoms. These drugs increase the levels of dopamine in the brain which improves concentration and focus, while decreasing hyperactivity. Amphetamines, methylphenidate and other stimulants are the most frequently prescribed stimulants. Adderall Ritalin and Dexadrine are popular brand names. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine, crystal meth (meth) cocaine, as well as bath salts made of synthetic cathinones.
Side effects of stimulant medication include stomach upset, decreased appetite, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. People who have taken stimulants for a long period of time might also experience the "rebound effect," meaning they become hyperactive after the drug has worn off. They may also experience mood swings such as depression and anxiety. These side effects typically decrease with time as the body adjusts to the medication.
Most doctors recommend using psychiatric medications in conjunction with behavioral therapy to help improve symptom management. Adults and children can develop strategies to control their symptoms through behavioral therapy. It can also reduce stress and encourage healthier choices for lifestyle.
ADHD medications aren't a cure for the condition, but they can significantly improve the quality of a person's life. Numerous studies have shown that stimulants can be utilized in conjunction with other treatment methods such as education for parents and counseling to help improve the control of symptoms.
Adults with ADHD require different medications and higher dosages than children. It may take some time to determine the proper dosage and medication that can control symptoms with the least adverse effects. adhd medication list prescribe various medications during the first few weeks of treatment to determine which is most suitable for each individual patient.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications require longer to get started and don't last as long as stimulants, but they are still a good option for some people. They help by increasing the quantity of a chemical in the brain called norepinephrine. Norepinephrine helps improve concentration and control impulses. The medications that boost norepinephrine levels include the atomoxetine (Strattera) and the long-acting alpha agonists clonidine hydrochloride (Kapvay) and guanfacine hydrochloride (Intuniv). These aren't controlled substances and therefore have a lower potential for abuse.
If ADHD medication isn't working or has serious side effects, psychiatric medications might be prescribed. Your doctor may recommend tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) or nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor) to help you deal with anxiety and depression that can sometimes occur alongside ADHD. These medications slow down the brain's natural chemical activity, however, they don't have the same impact on heart rate or blood pressure as stimulants do. They are often used in conjunction with stimulants to treat ADHD because they offer the additional benefit of helping improve attention and focus.