ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants change how the brain releases chemicals that influence concentration. Doctors often start people with ADHD with stimulants, and then work up to the highest dose that can help them.
Antidepressants are also used by people suffering from ADHD (not just for depression). These drugs work on the same chemicals as stimulants, but have fewer negative side negative effects.
Stimulants
The first drug that doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. They increase levels of two neurotransmitter hormones known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These hormones help people focus and decrease tiredness. These drugs are typically prescribed for children, but they are also available for adolescents and adults. These are the most commonly prescribed for ADHD in the United States. However, they can come with a range of side effects. Some individuals need to switch between stimulant drugs or dosages to determine the right one for them. Some people need to mix their medications with other methods of treatment.
Most ADHD medications have been approved by the FDA and have been subjected to tests on humans to demonstrate their the safety and effectiveness of these medications. These drugs can help improve concentration, reduce issues with impulse control and reduce the symptoms of ADHD in adults and children. They can decrease the risk of a relapse into substance abuse and help people with ADHD to live a more productive life. Research has shown that adolescents who are not treated with ADHD are more likely to have issues with drugs as adults. Adults who aren't treated for ADHD are more likely to have accidents with motor vehicles and make risky choices, such as taking risks while driving or playing the lottery.
The most common kind of ADHD medication most doctors prescribe is methylphenidate (MPH, dexmethylphenidate, or Dextroamphetamine). It can be taken as a pill, capsule or a tablet that dissolves orally. It is also available as a longer-acting medication, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release), and a patch for medical use. non prescription adhd medication of many brands of ADHD medication are now available. They cost less and insurance companies might prefer these over the brand-name versions. The chemical makeup of the medication is exactly the same in the generic version as it is in the brand-name medication.
Amphetamines are often prescribed to treat ADHD but they also have a great potential for abuse and addiction. They are classified as a Schedule I drug, which means it is illegal to possess or sell them without the prescription. Doctors are more cautious when prescribing amphetamines for those who have a history of substance abuse or anxiety. Certain people might also have heart issues when taking amphetamines.
Non-stimulant medications are only prescribed when stimulant medications do not work or produce unpleasant side effects. These medications can take four to six weeks before they begin working, and they may have to be adjusted in dose or frequency. They increase activity in the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine which aids people to concentrate and pay attention. These drugs are prescribed to treat other ailments like hypertension and depression, however they have been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It's normal for you to have to test a variety of ADHD medications before you discover the one that works best for your specific needs. Be patient with the process and stay in contact with your doctor. They'll let you know if your needs are changing, and will adjust the medication or the dosage.
It is important to understand that despite the positive effects of some ADHD medication, it is still essential to employ an entire approach to control symptoms and achieve the best results [11. In addition to medication other options include behavior modification, CBT and dietary adjustments.