ADHD Medications
In addition to counseling and therapy In addition to therapy and counseling, those with ADHD can benefit from taking certain medications. These medicines boost and balance levels of brain chemicals that increase the ability to focus and reduce hyperactivity.
It could take some time to find the most effective medication for you. Your health care provider will be able to observe how the medicine is working and will help you develop a a schedule that fits your needs.
Stimulants
Certain medications that influence the brain chemical that is involved in ADHD can help improve concentration, focus and impulse control. Doctors prescribe stimulants as well as nonstimulants. The type of medication you or your child needs will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your medical background.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used ADHD drugs. They increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can help improve attention and reduces impulse control and hyperactivity. They are available in short- and longer-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants work only for a few minutes, while long-acting stimulants stay throughout the day in your body.
Most children who have ADHD use stimulant medication however, they can also be used to treat adults suffering from the disorder. The majority of doctors recommend starting with a small dosage and gradually increasing to the appropriate amount. It may take time to find the best dosage for your child or yourself, and you may require regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to adjust your dosage.
The adverse effects of stimulant medication are usually minimal and disappear after some days. They can result in a decreased appetite, sleep problems, and increased heart rate or blood pressure. If you or your child is suffering from an illness that can increase the risk of certain side effects the doctor will discuss these with you prior to prescribing any medication.
In some cases, stimulants taken in high doses can cause sudden increases in blood pressure, heart palpitations or even seizures. These medicines are not recommended for patients with a family history of heart disease or for those who have an addiction history. Stimulants may also worsen some mental health disorders, like bipolar disorder and depression. Consult your physician to determine if they're appropriate for you or your children.
Nonstimulant ADHD medication is less likely to trigger serious adverse reactions, and it's typically a second-line option for people who do not respond to stimulants. They may include the drugs atomoxetine (Strattera) or clonidine (Kapvay), or guanfacine (Intuniv). Sometimes they are prescribed "off-label" to treat other disorders such as depression and anxiety.
The most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and drisperidone (Dilantin). Both are available as liquids, tablets, and capsules. They are typically taken by mouth once or twice per day. inattentive adhd medication and Atomoxetine are available as extended-release tablets that you or your child can wear on the hip (Intuniv and Intuniv XR). These tablets are designed to be worn for a few weeks before they require replacement. All ADHD medications come with a risk, and there's always the possibility that they will not perform as expected or cause adverse effects. But for many people, particularly children and teens the benefits far outweigh the risks. The ability to focus, concentrate and control impulses is a valuable asset for many people.