What Experts Say You Should Learn
ADHD Medications
Medications for ADHD may help improve focus, attention, and control of impulses. Doctors prescribe two kinds: stimulants and nonstimulants.
Stimulants increase the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Examples include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based medications like Adderall.
Teenagers and children react differently to medication. Doctors will be able to monitor side effects and adjust the dosage and medication to determine the best dosage for each child.
Stimulants
Most doctors start with stimulants to treat ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain which improves attention and mood. People also take stimulants to help reduce depression and anxiety. They come in many forms, including pills, liquids, and patches. The stimulants can cause adverse effects, but these tend to be minor and go disappear over time. Doctors can prescribe different types and dosages of stimulants for people with particular needs.
The most popular stimulants are amphetamines. They include the drugs Adderall, Concerta, Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methylphenidate. They were used by people with ADHD to boost energy levels, increase feelings of confidence and sociality, and create an impression of "rush" or increased productivity. The CDC reports an increase in the number of overdoses due to prescription stimulants in the past decade.
How do stimulants work?
knowing it of stimulants are absorbed quickly and reach the brain in about 20 minutes. They can raise blood pressure and heart rate which can be dangerous when taken in large quantities. They can also cause a rapid, uncharacteristic weight loss, which can result in other health issues. People with an increased risk of having a heart attack should stay clear of stimulants.
Many people with ADHD improve with long-acting stimulant medications that last throughout the day. They can also supplement their medication with a short-acting stimulant in the evening or late in the afternoon to ease through the difficult part of the school or work day when the long-acting drug wears off.
Short-acting stimulants are taken as needed, and last approximately four hours. Some people feel an immediate decrease in mood or energy after taking a drug that has a short-acting effect. This is called the "crash" effect. This can trigger intense hunger and fatigue. It could also trigger other medical problems like an increase in blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat.
Long-acting stimulants for ADHD generally last from six to eight hours. Some of them have an extended release. This means they break into smaller pieces over time, allowing a steady dose for longer durations of time. Long-acting stimulants are the preferred kind of medication for older children and adults with ADHD.
Xelstrym, a patch that is FDA-approved with the amphetamine-containing dextroamphetamine is a patch that can be worn throughout the day. It works in a similar way to a regular prescription-strength dextroamphetamine pill. Mydayis, a newer dextroamphetamine form that comes in capsules, can be taken as soon as you wake up in the morning.
Other ADHD Medicines for ADHD
A few people with ADHD do not respond to stimulants, and other medications are usually prescribed. Nonstimulants are able to be used as a single or in combination with stimulants. Some of the nonstimulants approved to treat ADHD are atomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine. People who don't respond to stimulants might also consider either guanfacine or clonidine. Behavioral therapy may be beneficial for people who aren't responding to medications. This is the process of learning to manage symptoms and modify negative behaviors. The most effective treatment approaches include behavioral therapy in conjunction with other pharmacological treatments.