Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. These medications boost the levels of neurotransmitter hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine that are present in your brain, which increases concentration and can help control an impulsive behavior.
You can buy them as a tablet or as a patch. Long-acting stimulant formulations are preferable because they provide medications throughout the day.
Stimulants
Stimulants are typically prescribed for ADHD. non prescription adhd medication uk are quick-acting and reduce ADHD symptoms in 70-80 percent of children who take them. They are effective by increasing brain chemical dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces fatigue. Methylphenidate is a stimulant commonly used to treat ADHD. It comes in chewable tablets and liquid forms, and can be taken two to three times a day. Amphetamines can be prescribed for ADHD. They are slightly more powerful than methylphenidates. These drugs can temporarily increase the heart rate and blood pressure. People with preexisting health conditions are advised to consult their doctor if they have any of these conditions.
If stimulant medications are misused (e.g. taking them in more than the prescribed dosage or mixed with alcohol or other substances), they can cause addiction. People who use them as directed, however, do not have an increased risk of developing addiction. There is evidence that the use of ADHD medication can help prevent substance abuse in those who are at risk.
The FDA has approved a variety of stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. They are usually available in generic form, meaning that the chemical formulation is identical to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe the medication that works best for you or your child.
Your doctor will begin with a small dose and examine how your child or you react before adjusting the dosage. Your doctor will then decide whether it is necessary add a second medicine or switch to another one.
Stimulants can cause side effects, such as a dry mouth, a decreased appetite and changes in mood or sleep patterns. Certain teenagers and children who are taking stimulants may experience tics. These are sudden movements or noises like eye blinking or a throat clearing. Some studies have found that stimulants may cause a slight decrease in height for certain children and teenagers.
Non-stimulant medications are slower-acting than stimulants, but they can help improve impulsivity and attention. They can take anywhere from up to four weeks to be noticeable. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems in certain people. They are most often prescribed in combination with a stimulant medication for ADHD.
Antidepressants are also effective in treating ADHD. They affect the levels of serotonin in the brain. Some -- such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been shown to increase focus and impulsivity in people who suffer from ADHD.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications are few and far between. Your doctor may suggest antidepressants as a stimulant for ADHD or in lieu of stimulants if you suffer from undesirable side effects. Some adults with ADHD might also benefit from antidepressants, because they enhance memory and reduce impulsivity as well as aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are usually prescribed in conjunction with stimulants and could be more effective than stimulants by themselves.