Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to focus better, be less impulsive, and feel calmer. how to treat adhd without medication in adults have a better time with schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowdown in growth and may be experiencing an increase in heart rate or blood pressure while taking these medicines.
There are many different types of medications that include liquids, tablets patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). how to treat adhd without medication in adults (methylphenidate) is the most popular stimulant. It comes in three forms: immediate-release sustained-release and extended-release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These medications improve focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in planning and organization skills.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken 2 or 3 times per throughout the day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines can be more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates however, they both function in the same way to improve attention and focus. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release formulations. They are the best choice because they last between 8 to 12 hours and are generally taken only every day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquids to make beverages, while some are pills.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will watch how you respond to the different types of medications and will alter the dosage as required. The use of medication should be a part of a complete treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to kick in but they can make you feel more in control and increase your impulsivity, concentration and focus. These medications don't affect dopamine and norepinephrine in the as stimulants do, so they can be more secure to use for longer periods of time. These medications can also have less adverse effects such as constipation, heartburn and reduced sexual drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor might prescribe other medication from this category such as guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant family, like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors only suggest these drugs if stimulants and other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many side consequences.
Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your doctor. These medicines don't have immediate effects however they can reduce the impulsivity of people and increase concentration over time. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs compared to other ones and may cause side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor might also suggest an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) which isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can cause some unpleasant but not usually serious side effects like ringing or changes in vision.