A Brief History Of The Evolution Of Best Medication For ADHD
A Brief History Of The Evolution Of Best Medication For ADHD
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Best Medication For ADHD
Teenagers and children who take ADHD medication tend to concentrate more effectively, have less impulsive and more calm. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some suffer a slight slowing of growth and have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.
Medications are available in different forms including tablets, capsules, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It comes in three forms: immediate-release, sustained-release and extended-release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs improve concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it helps in planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting dosages. The short-acting medicines peak in 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken three or twice times a day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin, are among these. Amphetamines can be more potent and last longer than methylphenidates but both work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release formulations. These are a better choice because they last for 8 to 12 hours, and are typically taken once a day. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to make drinks, while others are pills.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will be able to get more info monitor your response to different types of medications and adjust the dosage as needed. Drugs should only be used as part of a complete treatment plan that will include support and behavioral therapy services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a longer to take effect however it can help you feel more in control, increase your concentration and impulsivity and increase your concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do, so they can be safer to use over a longer period of time. They can also have fewer side effects, such as constipation, heartburn, and reduced sexual drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, referred to as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both drugs in this group.
There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry, such as Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by physicians if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or cause too many adverse side effects.
Viloxazine or Atomoxetine may be prescribed by your doctor. These medications do not have an immediate impact but they may help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs than other ones and may cause side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor might also suggest a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects, such as hearing loss or changes in vision.