ADHD Medication List Explained In Less Than 140 Characters
ADHD Medication List
The most commonly used ADHD medications are stimulant drugs like Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They increase levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine to improve focus, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
These medications can cause adverse effects. Your healthcare provider will help you find the best dosage and medicine for your child or yourself.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication healthcare providers use to treat ADHD. They boost the levels certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which aid people pay attention and think clearly. They also help people remain motivated. In most instances, 80% or more of children suffering from ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms once the doctor prescribes the correct stimulant medication. The stimulants can be consumed via patch or injection. Some people with ADHD are prescribed nonstimulant drugs to help alleviate their symptoms. It takes time to determine the appropriate dosage, medication and schedule for each person with ADHD.
The first stimulant drug a person with ADHD uses may not be effective or cause unpleasant side effects. If symptoms recur, or a person does not see improvement after a few weeks then the doctor may suggest another medication.
medication for autism and adhd are only available on prescription from your doctor or another qualified provider. They aren't sold over-the-counter (OTC). People should not use supplements or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD because they could interfere with your prescription.
There are many types of stimulant medications, including amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin), dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (Ritalin). The majority of these drugs are available in pill form, however some are available in chewable, liquid or patch tablets. Doctors may suggest extended-release or prolonged-acting medicines to limit the risk of abuse. These drugs build up slowly in the bloodstream and wear off slowly. This helps reduce the symptoms of "the rebound effect," which is when people's mood and energy levels decrease when their medication wears off.
The medications typically begin to work within 30-60 minutes and their effects last for about 3-4 hours. The majority of people who take them take them two to three times a day.
Short-acting stimulants can cause an "crash" and cause people to feel irritable hungry, tired, and fatigued. Some people with ADHD also have what's called tics, which are repetitive sound or movements that resemble throat clearing or eye blinking. These tics are not caused by the medication, but can become worse if it is not stopped.
The risk of addiction or abuse is minimal for any stimulant. However, this is not likely to occur in the low doses that are used to treat ADHD. The risk is higher for young adults and teens and could be higher for people with a history of substance abuse or mental illness.
The most common side effects of stimulants include stomach upset, headaches and an increased heart rate. These side effects usually disappear after a few days of taking the medication. If they do not, speak to your doctor.
People suffering from ADHD should tell their doctor whether they have an history of anxiety or depression or are breastfeeding or pregnant or have a heart disease or high blood pressure. They should also inform their doctor if they take any other medications or caffeine drinks, as they may interfere with the medication's effectiveness. They should also inform their doctor about any family history of alcoholism, or other mental health problems.