ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter the way that the brain releases chemicals that affect focus. Doctors typically start patients with ADHD with stimulants, and then increase the dose that aids them.
People who suffer from ADHD also take antidepressants (they're not just for depression). These drugs are built on the same chemical that stimulants do, but they have fewer side-effects.
Stimulants
The first medication doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. They boost levels of dopamine and other neurotransmitter hormones, which helps people focus and reduce fatigue. These medications are commonly given to children, but they are also available to adults and adolescents. They are the most commonly used medications for ADHD in the United States, but they can cause a variety adverse effects. Certain people have to switch between stimulant drugs or dosages to determine the best one for their needs. Some people require the combination of their medications and other methods of treatment.
Most ADHD medications are FDA-approved, and have been subjected to human trials to demonstrate their safety and effectiveness. These medications can improve concentration, reduce symptoms of ADHD and can help prevent problems with impulse control in children and adults. They can decrease the risk of a relapse into substance abuse and help people with ADHD to live a more productive life. Research suggests that children who aren't treated with ADHD are more likely to experience problems with their drugs as they grow older. Untreated adults with ADHD are more at chance of being involved in motor vehicle accidents, and also making risky choices like gambling or driving while impaired.
The first type of ADHD medication most doctors prescribe is the methylphenidate (MPH dexmethylphenidate or Dextroamphetamine). It is available as a pill, capsule or a tablet that dissolves orally. Also available is a long-acting medication called Xelstrym, (dextroamphetamine prolonged-release) as well as a medical patch. Generic versions of several brands of ADHD medications are now available. They cost less and insurance companies might prefer these over the brand-name versions. The generic medication has exactly the same chemical composition as the brand-name medication.
Amphetamines that are often prescribed for ADHD, have a higher risk of addiction and misuse. Schedule I drugs are illegal to sell or possess without prescription. medication for inattentive adhd are more cautious when prescribing amphetamines for people with an addiction history or anxiety. Some people also may have heart issues when taking amphetamines.
Non-stimulant medicines are only prescribed when stimulant medicines fail to work or if they cause undesirable side effects. These drugs can take up to six weeks before they work and might require a dosage or timing adjustment. They increase the activity of the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine which aids people to focus and stay focused. These medications are prescribed to treat other disorders like hypertension and depression, but they have been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It's normal to need to try several ADHD medications before you discover the one that is most effective for your specific needs. Be patient and stay in contact with your doctor. They can alter your dosage or medication when needed.
It is important to remember that despite the remarkable improvements observed with certain types of ADHD medication A comprehensive treatment plan is crucial for managing symptoms and maximizing the results [1]. In addition to the use of drugs, other options include behavior modification, CBT and dietary adjustments.