ADHD Medication List
Stimulant drugs, like Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin and Concerta are the most commonly used ADHD medications. They increase levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine to improve focus, decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity.
These medicines can cause adverse effects. Your health care provider will assist you in finding the best dosage and medication that works best for you or your child.
Stimulants
Stimulants, which are the most popular type medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD, are stimulants. They boost the levels certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which aid people to pay attention and think clearly. They also help people stay motivated. In the majority of instances, 80% or more of children with ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms when the doctor prescribes the appropriate stimulant medication. The stimulants can be consumed via patch or injection. Some people suffering from ADHD take nonstimulant medication to help alleviate their symptoms. It takes time to determine the right dosage, medication and schedule for each individual with ADHD.
The first stimulant drug people with ADHD is likely to not work or have undesirable adverse effects. If a person doesn't see improvement after a few weeks or if symptoms return the doctor may suggest a different medication.
Only prescriptions from a physician or other qualified doctor are accepted. They aren't available over-the-counter (OTC). It's not recommended that people take vitamins or supplements that claim to treat ADHD. They may interfere with your prescription.
There are adhd and medication of stimulant medications, such as amphetamines such as Adderall and Ritalin and dextroamphetamines such as Dexedrine and methylphenidates similar to Ritalin. Most of these drugs come in pill form, but certain are available as chewable, liquid or patch tablets. To reduce the risk of misuse, a physician might recommend medication with a long-acting or extended-release. These medications build up slowly in the bloodstream, and fade slowly. This reduces the effects of what's known as "the rebound effect," when a person's mood and energy drop after their medicine is finished.
These medications typically begin to take effect within 30-60 minutes, and their effects last about 3-4 hours. Most people take them twice or three times per day.
Some people who take stimulants that have a short-acting effect experience what's referred to as a "crash" when the effects of the drug diminish, and this can make them feel exhausted, irritable, and hungry. Some people suffering from ADHD experience tics. These are repetitive movements or sounds, such as throat clearing or blinking of the eyes. These tics aren't caused by the medication but can become worse if it is stopped.
There is a slight chance of addiction and abuse of any type of stimulant, but this is not likely in the doses that are low to treat ADHD. The risk is greater for adolescents and young adults and could be even higher for those with an addiction history or a history of substance abuse.
The majority of stimulants cause adverse effects like stomach upsets, headaches and increased heart rate. These side effects usually disappear after several days of taking the medication. If they do not talk to your doctor.
People suffering from ADHD must inform their doctor if they have an history of anxiety, depression, heart disease, or high blood pressure. They should also tell their doctor if they are taking any other medications or drinks, as they may hinder the effectiveness of the medication. It is also important to inform their doctor if they have a family history of alcoholism or other mental health issues.
