ADHD Medication
Medication is often a part of an ADHD treatment program. The two most commonly used stimulant drugs are dextroamphetamine as well as methylphenidate. Each of these stimulant medicines has a variety of brands and each has a distinct chemical composition.
Stimulants work by increasing levels of brain chemicals that help pass messages between neurons. These are the first medications that healthcare professionals typically try for people suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
add adhd medications prescribe stimulants as the primary medication for ADHD. They help by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine, which can improve focus, decrease the impulsive behavior, and increase peace. Amphetamines, including methylphenidate, or atomoxetine (which is in the class of antidepressants called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors) are typically prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. Although serious heart complications are rare, doctors may closely monitor patients with heart conditions when they take stimulants.
ADHD is typically treated most efficiently with stimulant medication particularly for adolescents and children. These medications boost brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which help them focus, concentrate and learn. These drugs also promote the ability to stay awake and alert. When taken according to the prescription will improve school performance. However, many experts worry that students who use stimulants for long periods of time can develop a tolerance to them and begin to need greater doses. They may also trigger negative side effects, such as fluctuations in appetite, trouble sleeping, and anxiety or depression.
adhd and medication who prescribe ADHD medication typically begin by prescribing a low dose, and then gradually increase the amount over a few weeks. Your parents and you will be asked to keep track of the effects on you and the benefits of the medication. If the medication doesn't appear to be working or has side effects you can't cope with, your doctor might try another medicine.
Most children and adults who take stimulant medications suffer some adverse reactions. The majority of them are mild, and they go away within a few weeks or days after the body has become accustomed to the medicine. The most commonly reported side effects include a loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and an increase in heart rate.
Certain studies have revealed that people who take stimulant medication for ADHD are more likely to develop tics. These are repetitive movements or noises like eye blinking or a throat clearing. These drugs don't cause tics, but they do make them more visible. ADHD medications can also cause an occasional change in voice or headaches, stomach aches and occasionally raise or lower blood pressure or heart rate.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs work differently than stimulants. They boost the levels of norepinephrine, the brain chemical that helps to regulate the flow of thoughts and attention. They can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. They are less harmful than stimulants, but do not work as well to treat ADHD symptoms. Your doctor might suggest you try one of these medications if you have bipolar disorder or depression along with ADHD. They might also suggest psychosocial therapy to help you manage your ADHD symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.