Best Medication For ADHD
The use of medication is an integral part of many treatment plans for ADHD. However, finding the right medication and dose can take time. Be patient and communicate openly with your GP or a specialist.
Stimulants increase the levels of chemicals in the brain that control behavior. They are available in short-acting as well as long-acting formulations. Short-acting medicines peak after a few hours and must be taken 3 times a day. Long-acting medicines last between 8 and 12 hours and are typically taken daily.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a great treatment for ADHD in children, however they're not always effective for adults. They increase activity in the parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is the most popular stimulant used to treat ADHD in people of all ages, is used by many. It is available in pill form and can be prescribed for children, teens and adults. Doctors begin with small doses and then gradually increase the dosage. Side effects include loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping. If these are bothersome consult your physician about ways to lessen or eliminate these symptoms.
Methylphenidate is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two or three times per day) and extended-release tablets that are taken once in the morning and release medication throughout the day. The FDA has approved Cotempla XR -ODT and Jornay - PM, two methylphenidate tablets that are designed to last longer in the body.
These medications can cause heart palpitations and trouble sleeping, particularly when used in large doses or with long-acting medication. Some sufferers may also experience anxiety or depression while taking these medications.
People who are addicted to stimulants must be monitored by their physician or a specialist. They will fill out behavioral ratings scales, and observe your child or teen at school and other daily activities. They will also watch for indications of addiction or abuse and measure their height, weight as well as pulse and blood pressure. In addition doctors will be able to monitor how the medication is performing by observing the child's or teen's performance in various classes and observing changes in the person's target goals.
It's not unusual to see people try a variety of drugs before settling on the most effective and well-liked one. It's also normal for people to stop and restart medication based on their requirements and significant life events like getting an employment change or becoming a parent.
The FDA has approved four non-stimulant ADHD medications: Strattera, Intuniv, Kapvay and Qelbree. These drugs work by affecting norepinephrine rather than stimulants that increase dopamine levels. This helps with attention and impulse control. These drugs can also cause an increase in appetite and agitation, but the side effects are not as severe as those triggered by stimulants.
Many people who haven't responded to stimulant medications or experience uncontrollable side effects are prescribed a variety of other medications "off-label" for ADHD such as atypical antidepressants and tricyclic antidepressants. Bupropion is an atypical type antidepressant that raises levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. It may have a less significant effect on ADHD symptoms as compared to stimulants. Venlafaxine, a different antidepressant that is atypical, is an SNRI, which raises levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. managing adhd without medication can have minor effects on ADHD symptoms. It is prescribed to treat nerve pain that is caused by fibromyalgia and diabetes. In some cases, specialists may recommend that these medicines be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral therapies and other interventions. These can help the person develop better coping skills and enhance their functioning in their lives.