ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One
Finding the best ADHD medication requires a lot of trial and trial and. The effectiveness of a medication is influenced by a variety of aspects that include metabolism side effects, the dosage, and how a medication interacts with other medications and supplements.
It takes a bit of time for stimulants to take effect, but they do improve attention, focus and impulsivity. They also boost brain chemicals like dopamine and adrenaline.
Stimulants
Stimulants are also referred to as uppers. They speed up the body's functions and make you feel more alert. Examples of stimulants include caffeine, a drug commonly used to keep people awake and alert, and prescription drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall, Vyvanse), and Lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). They also include illicit substances such as crystal meth, cocaine, and bath salts (synthetic cathinones) that are often abused by young people for their stimulating effects. When taken legally by a physician as prescribed the drug has been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms and improve the functioning of those with the disorder.
Prescription stimulants are generally safe if used in a controlled manner, however, they do carry a risk of side effects including insomnia, nervousness, headache, tremors, stomach upset, agitation, shakiness and rapid heartbeats, as well as confusion. They may also have a high potential for dependence and abuse. If taken in natural adhd medication -than-prescribed doses or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to overdose and death.
The two main classes of prescription stimulants are methylphenidate as well as dextroamphetamine. They are available as tablets, liquid, chewable tablets and a skin patch for more than 30 years. The drugs, also referred to as Adderall and Ritalin by their brand names, work by increasing the dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. They can help improve concentration, behavior, and self-control. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release (long-lasting) versions.
Viloxazine and Atomoxetine, both under the brand name Qelbree, are stimulant medications that are available over-the-counter. These are both part of a group known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and inhibit the action of norepinephrine inside the brain. They do not help with the symptoms of ADHD however, they can be helpful when used in conjunction with other treatments such as nonstimulant medication and treatment for behavior.
Nonstimulant medicine
There are several nonstimulant medicines that have been FDA-approved to treat ADHD. They are generally easier to take and have less negative effects than stimulant drugs. They may not be as fast as stimulants and can take several weeks to begin working. They are also less addictive than stimulant medication and some doctors suggest them as a first option for adults.
The medications that are not classified as stimulants include Clonidine (brand name Zanex) and alpha-2 adrenergic agonists such as Guanfacine (brand name Tenex). These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label", meaning that the FDA has not endorsed them to treat ADHD. However, they can be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms through acting as a sedative, and slowing the activity of certain neurons in the brain.
Treatment for ADHD also includes a variety of behavioral education and other types of behavioral therapy. Behavioral training can teach children and adults with ADHD new ways to manage their symptoms, improve their social skills, and develop better strategies for managing conflict and frustration. These techniques are particularly effective in younger children and those with milder symptoms. These treatments are not always effective in older children or adults who have more severe symptoms of ADHD.