ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. They include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Tricyclics, a class older of antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. However, these medications can cause serious side effects, so doctors usually only recommend them if stimulants don't work or cause unacceptable side effects.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD in adults and children. These drugs are effective by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. People who take these medications find that they boost their concentration, reduce fatigue, and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Stimulants can help about 70 percent to 80% of people with ADHD improve their performance. They don't turn into a habit when taken in the doses prescribed for treating ADHD. However they can be misused and lead to addiction. Those with a history or addiction to alcohol or drugs, or who are part of an extended family with substance abuse or mental health issues could be at greater risk.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the most frequently used stimulants for treating ADHD. The majority of these medications are available as generics which are less expensive than brand-name drugs and are preferred by many insurance companies. see this of these medications are offered in extended-release tablets which you can take once every week and last for up to 16 hours. This can result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which is especially helpful for school-aged children.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes. They typically last for about four hours. You can take them twice or three times daily. They are usually the first medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these are available as chewable tablets, liquid or a patch that goes on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants may last for as long as 16 hours and are consumed every day in the morning. They can prevent the dips and peaks in effectiveness that occur when short-acting stimulants lose their effectiveness and cause extreme hunger and low energy. adhd medication names who use long-acting stimulants add small doses of immediate-release medications to help them get through the late afternoon and evening.
There are a variety of possible side effects of taking stimulants for ADHD. These include nausea, headaches, nervousness, lack of appetite, and sleepiness. Most of these side effects are mild to moderate and go away after a few weeks as your body adjusts. If the side effects persist or are severe, you should consult your doctor.
Non-stimulants
There is a group of medications that is sometimes used to treat ADHD however they aren't FDA-approved for this use. These medications are called non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). The majority of these medications carry a lower risk for misuse than stimulants, however they could still cause anxiety, insomnia, or agitation.
The best method to determine the best medication for you or your child is to consult with your physician, who can help you weigh the advantages and risks of each option. Your doctor will take into consideration your medical background, the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other conditions or illnesses you suffer from. They will also consider how each medication affects your child or you, and how it works with other treatments. adhd and medication should inform your doctor of any supplements, foods, or beverages that you or your child consume and any prescription or non-prescription medication you're taking, including antidepressants.