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medication for adhd For ADHD


Most children and teenagers who are taking ADHD medication find they concentrate better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and more focused with their schoolwork. Some may experience a slight slowing in growth and could be experiencing an increase in blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medicines.

Medications are available in different forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and pills (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate release, extended-release and sustained-release.

Stimulants

One of the most effective medications for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These medications improve focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex region, which is often called the brain's "secretary" because it aids with planning and organizational abilities.

Stimulants are available both in short-acting as well as long-acting dosages. The short-acting medicines are most effective between 30 and 45 minutes, and must be taken two or three times per day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, however they both work similarly in improving focus and attention. There are extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. They are the best choice because they last for 8 to 12 hours, and are generally taken only every day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquid to make a drink, while others are in pill form.

It may take a while to find the right medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will observe how you respond to the various types of medications and will alter the dosage as required. The use of medications should be done in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan, which should include support and behavioral therapy services.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to kick in however they can make you feel more in control and increase your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same as stimulants do, which means they can be safer to use for longer periods of time. They can also have fewer adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn and reduced sex drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera and is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both drugs in this class.

There are also non-stimulant antidepressants that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past like Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by doctors if stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or if they have too many adverse effects.

Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These medications don't have an immediate effect however they can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive and improve concentration over time. These medications are in a different class of drugs than the others and can trigger adverse effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects such as the ringing of your ears or changes in your vision.

Member since: Saturday, November 16, 2024

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