ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants work to boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Amphetamines and methylphenidate belong to the stimulants.
Doctors also sometimes prescribe older classes of antidepressants, tricyclics, to treat ADHD. non prescription adhd medication uk can cause severe negative side effects. Doctors usually only prescribe them when stimulants don't work or cause intolerable symptoms.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These medications increase the amount of dopamine in your brain. Most people who take these drugs find that they increase their concentration, reduce fatigue, and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Stimulants can aid 70% to 80% of people suffering from ADHD improve their performance. These medications don't cause addiction when taken in the doses that are prescribed to treat ADHD. However, they can be abused and lead to addiction. Patients with an history of substance or alcohol abuse or an extended family history of substance abuse or mental health issues could be at higher risk for this.
non prescription adhd medication used stimulants to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. Generics are less expensive than brand-name drugs and are favored by a majority of insurance companies. Some of these medicines are available in extended-release tablets, which you can take once each week for up to 16 hrs. This may result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which is particularly beneficial for children in school.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) begin to work in 30 to 45 minutes. They last approximately four hours. You may take them two or three times a day. They are usually the first type of medication your doctor prescribes. Certain medications are available as tablets, chewable or liquid form, or patches that can be applied to the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants may last for up to 16 hours and are consumed each day in the early morning. They can prevent the dips and peaks in effectiveness that occur when stimulants that are short-acting wear off and cause extreme hunger and low energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants also supplement them with a small dose of immediate-release medication to help them get through the late afternoon and evening.
There are a variety of possible side effects from using stimulants to treat ADHD such as anxiety, stomachaches, headaches as well as loss of appetite and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are moderate to mild and go away after several weeks as your body adjusts. If the side effects persist or are severe, you should consult your doctor.
Non-stimulants
There's a class of drugs that are sometimes used to treat ADHD, although they're not FDA-approved for this use. These are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medication and include atomoxetine, varenicline and bupropion. The majority of these medications carry less risk of misuse than stimulants, yet they could still cause anxiety, insomnia or agitation.
The best method to determine the best medication for your child or yourself is to talk with your doctor who will assist you in weighing the benefits and risks of each choice. Your doctor will take into consideration your medical history as well as the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other illnesses or conditions you suffer from. They'll also consider how each medication affects your child or you, and how well it works with other treatments. You'll need to tell your doctor about any food, beverages or supplements that you or your child take and whether you're taking other medications, whether prescription or over the counter, including antidepressants.