Best Medication For ADHD
The majority of children and teens who are taking ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and get on with their school work. Some individuals may experience a slight slowing of their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure while taking these medications.
The medications are available in a variety of forms like capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available in immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective medications for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These drugs help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters within the brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it aids in planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes and have to be taken 2 or 3 times per every day. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates like Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin, are among these. Amphetamines can be more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates, but both work in the same way to increase attention and focus. There are also extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. They are a go od option because they last up to 12 hours and are typically taken daily. Certain of these medicines are powders that you mix with liquids to create beverages, while some are pills.
Finding the right medication may take a while. Your doctor will monitor how you react to different types of drugs and adjust the dosage as needed. The use of medication should be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to work but it can make you feel in control, increase your impulsivity and concentration and help you focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way that stimulants do, so they are safer to use over longer periods of time. They also have less side effects, such as heartburn, constipation and a decreased sex drive. Strattera is the first medication that was approved by FDA to treat ADHD. It's an inhibitor of selective reuptake. Your doctor could prescribe additional medication from this category, including the guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
Non-stimulant, off-label antidepressants are also available to treat ADHD. These are older medications in the tricyclic antidepressant group, like Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by doctors if stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many adverse side effects.
Viloxazine or atomoxetine can be prescribed by your doctor. These drugs don't have an immediate impact but they may help reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs compared to the others and can cause adverse effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also recommend an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can improve concentration and reduce impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects, such as ringing or changes in vision.