ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can relieve many symptoms of the disorder, but they cannot cure it. Most often, your doctor will prescribe medication along with education, counseling and behavior therapy.
Stimulant drugs are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. They work by boosting and balancing brain chemicals that regulate attention and behavior. These include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta (and amphetamines, such as Dexedrine).
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is one of the most studied stimulant medications to treat ADHD. It has been proven safe and effective for children and adults. It is available in a variety including tablets, liquids chewable tablets, as well as extended-release capsules. It is also available as single-isomer versions that have the beneficial right-handed molecules but not the harmful left-handed ones found in other formulations (Brand name: Focalin XR, Generic name: dexmethylphenidate ER).
There are some who experience side effects of methylphenidate like headaches and a loss of appetite. These effects are usually minor and disappear as they adjust to the medicine. If the side effects persist you should consult your doctor. They could change the dosage or prescribe a new medication.
In some cases methylphenidate can result in mood changes like feeling anxious or depressed. This isn't common, but it can be a serious issue if you have an existing mental illness like bipolar disorder. In rare instances methylphenidate could cause a manic episode for people with bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can raise your blood pressure and heart rate which is not a good thing for anyone with heart problems. The drug should be avoided by anyone who has an existing history of heart failure or structural heart diseases, particularly in young adults. Additionally, it should not be used by those who suffer from phenylketonuria (an inherited condition in which you must follow an incredibly low-protein diet). Always inform your doctor if you have an issue with your heart before taking this medication.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine, an FDA-approved drug is used to treat attention hyperactivity disorder in children and adults. It is also an effective treatment for binge-eating disorders (BED). It is a central nerve system stimulant which is effective by increasing the activity in certain areas of the brain. It is only available by prescription.
When combined with other medications such as sedatives and anticholinergics the drug may cause serious adverse effects. This combination could increase the risk of developing heart issues and seizures. It could also be risky when driving or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Vyvanse and make sure not to drive until you know how the drug affects you. Use a medication take-back program or mix your medication with a nontoxic substance such as dirt or cat litter before throwing it in the garbage bin in your home.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have demonstrated that it is as effective as methylphenidate, a long-acting drug and Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant. Additionally, a recent European study showed that lisdexamfetamine may be even more effective than methylphenidate.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have demonstrated that the drug can enhance functioning in both school and work environments. A small open-label study by Brown et al37 demonstrated significant improvement in a simulated workplace environment. adhd stimulant medication and co. conducted a study that revealed significant improvements in performance when compared to a permanent Product Measure of Performance.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is different from stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall (dextroamphetamine) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). It is not a centrally nervous system stimulant, but rather a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages from one nerve cell to another in the brain. Noradrenaline is recycled by nerve cells after sending a message. Atomoxetine blocks this recycling and increases levels of active noradrenaline within the brain. This can improve attention and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The capsules are available in oral capsules. The medication is usually prescribed once or twice daily, but can be given more often if needed. It is crucial to follow your doctor's directions, especially when you first start treatment. You should take the medicine with food and drink a full glass of water. Do not mix with hot drinks or any other medication unless directed otherwise.
Despite research that shows that atomoxetine is more efficient than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate in treating ADHD symptoms but it isn't as effective. It is also less effective than non-stimulant medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants as well as clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. To avoid this, it is recommended to not get up too quickly from a lying position. Also, avoid smoking cigarettes and alcohol while taking this drug. In addition, you should consult your physician about the most suitable diet for you or your child.
Adderall
Adderall is a drug used to increase alertness and concentration. It works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters that are found in the brain: norepinephrine as well as dopamine. Dopamine enhances positive behavior, while norepinephrine regulates blood pressure, heart rate and blood vessels.
Adderall does not cause high when taken in the dose recommended by your doctor. It can, however, cause side effects, such as dry mouth and insomnia. If your child is experiencing these symptoms, talk to their doctor. The doctor might be able to change the dose or switch medications.
The use of stimulant medications is a typical treatment for ADHD, but it can cause issues in some kids. These problems can be a result of poor school performance to social issues. Teens also abuse stimulants to get an energy boost. They can trigger addiction. Most of these problems are preventable.
Some children with ADHD have trouble sleeping at night. The medication can aid them in sleeping. It is essential to limit screen time and caffeine prior to the time of bed. It's also a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
Adderall is a controlled substance. It can result in false positives on tests for drug screening. Therefore, it's essential to inform the authorities when you play or work in sports. The length of time that Adderall stays in the body varies from one person, so it's best not to take it within the last two to four days prior to your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine, a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It functions similarly to other ADHD medications by increasing the brain's Neurotransmitters. It increases the brain's neurotransmitters and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. It also improves listening abilities and alters the way people feel. It is available in tablets that are short-acting and extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule). It is a Schedule II drug, meaning it could create addiction. It can also increase blood pressure and heart rate. Contact your doctor immediately in the event of this.
Many children with ADHD have side effects from stimulant medication. They may develop an upset stomach, experience difficulty sleeping, or feel aggressive or irritable. These adverse effects can be reduced or eliminated by altering the dosage of the formula, formulation, or type of medication.
Medications do not cure ADHD but they can help improve the ability of a child to focus and control their emotions. They can also assist them in performing better at school. However, ADHD symptoms will return when the medication is stopped. They must be taken exactly as directed by your physician.
The effects of stimulants can increase the heart rate in certain individuals, so doctors must be aware of blood pressure and heart rhythm. They can also cause sleep issues and changes in appetite. The best way to treat ADHD is to use the combination of medication, therapy, and skills training. Children with ADHD are less able to achieve full scale IQs when compared to children without. They are more likely than others to require special education or remedial academic services, and to be slower to complete high school. They are also more likely to quit college.
Ritalin
Ritalin the first drug used to treat ADHD in children, was created with kindergarteners and 1st graders in mind. They only required it for three or four hours a day. But as kids get older, their need to concentrate increases, which is why they require longer-lasting medicine. There are now medications that function as stimulants, but last for as long as 12 hours. These are referred to as "methylphenidates," and they increase the amount of two chemicals in the brain that influence concentration: norepinephrine and dopamine. The medicines come in different forms, such as pills that can be swallowed, chewed on or dissolved, liquids that are squeezed into the mouth, and a patch that is affixed to the skin like a band-aid.
The medication can't cure ADHD but it can aid people in staying focused and less fidgety at work or in class. It makes it easier to follow directions and to listen. It can also result in side effects like abdominal pain, sleep problems and eating disorders. It can also worsen symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, or psychosis. Tell your doctor immediately in the event that you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
These medications are prone to be abused, and they are categorized as Schedule II drugs by the DEA. Only available with a doctor's prescription, they must be kept out of the reach of children and adults that may abuse them. Atomoxetine and guanfacine as well as other Schedule II drugs have fewer negative effects than stimulants.