ADHD Medications
Medicines are an essential part of treatment for ADHD. They don't cure the disorder but can aid in managing symptoms.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used medicines for ADHD. They help by enhancing activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behaviour.
Medication can cause side-effects like nausea, elevated heart rate or blood pressure, and the tics. These side effects are typically mild to moderate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs to treat ADHD. They are medications that boost the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine that help people concentrate and reduce impulse-driven behavior. A short-term adverse effect could include weight loss, increased heart rate or bloodpressure. These medicines can quickly improve symptoms of ADHD for the majority of people, however they are not able to solve the problem. Your doctor will prescribe the best medication for you or your child in accordance with the results of your ADHD assessment as well as your tolerance to the drug's adverse effects.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates comprise the two most common kinds of stimulant drugs. Adderall and Ritalin are methylphenidates. These drugs come in short-acting and long-acting versions. Adderall XR, Vyvanse and Adderall XR are the longer-acting versions.
They are safe and most commonly prescribed for ADHD. However they can also be misused or abused, and can become addictive. People who don't suffer from ADHD use these medications to increase their alertness or to shed weight. They might also take these medications to get a "buzz", or a "high." If people who suffer from ADHD make use of these medications in a controlled manner under the guidance of their healthcare provider they will not become addicted.
Finding the right stimulant medication for your child or yourself may take time. It is essential to inform your doctor about any side reactions you may experience. Your doctor will then alter the dosage of your medication and determine the best dosage for you.
Side effects of stimulant medications for ADHD include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. They can also cause irritability and nervousness, especially when taken in higher doses. These side effects are usually noticed in the first few weeks or days after taking the medication and will diminish as your body becomes accustomed to it.
Your doctor must examine your other health conditions before prescribing a medication. For instance, if have an antecedent history of stroke or heart disease the doctor may not prescribe any stimulant. If you suffer from anxiety or depression, your doctor will not prescribe any stimulant. In these situations your doctor might prescribe a nonstimulant or pair a stimulant with an anti-anxiety medication like Strattera (atomoxetine) to improve their effectiveness.
Nonstimulant drugs for ADHD require a little longer to begin working, but they are less likely to be misused or abused than stimulants. They are often prescribed when stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant adverse side effects.
In managing adhd without medication to other drugs, ADHD medicines are not available on the market. Vitamins or minerals that claim to treat ADHD are not backed by any scientific backing and may interact with prescription drugs. Your doctor may suggest specific diet changes to assist in managing ADHD symptoms and decrease the need for medication. Your doctor could also recommend the use of behavior therapy and training to increase your ability to manage your impulses and manage your life. A combination treatment is typically the most effective approach.