Types of ADHD Medication

There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. It could take a while to discover the best one for you or your child.

Stimulant medications, like methylphenidate (Ritalin) can help reduce symptoms by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals. Some people who take these medications experience a sharp drop in energy and a "crash" as the drug is gone.

Short-acting

Medications that control behavior can benefit a lot of kids with ADHD. These drugs can make it easier for children to finish tasks, build stronger relationships, and to learn. They can also cut down on annoying or distracting behaviors. Parents and doctors should work together to find the right medication for their child. Children respond differently to different medications, which is why it is important to find the right medication for each child. A health care provider may suggest a combination of medications and other therapies, including counseling.

There are two types of medications used to treat ADHD in teens, adults and children: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants affect brain chemicals that affect attention and impulse control. They can be short-acting (lasting a few hours) or long-acting (lasting all day). Certain people experience side effects like a decrease in appetite, sleep issues and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Most doctors can pinpoint an medication that has minimal or no side effect for most people.

The most common medicines used to treat add adhd medications are known as stimulants, and they include methylphenidates and amphetamines. They're classified as Schedule II drugs by the Drug Enforcement Administration because they have a high risk for misuse or abuse if not used as directed. Examples of methylphenidates include Ritalin and Concerta and Adderall and Dexedrine are examples of amphetamines. These medications can cause serious health problems when they are not used according to the prescription. It is crucial to consult with your doctor prior to taking these medicines.

Children younger than 6 years old shouldn't be given stimulants. Some children may require a different drug, or a lower dosage. Before prescribing a medication your doctor will look for any other conditions that could be causing the symptoms of your child. They will inquire about your child's symptoms, habits and family history. They will also conduct an exam to check if there are any problems in the area of vision or hearing. They may ask about your child’s sleep and diet. They'll want to know whether your child is suffering from allergies. The doctor will then issue the prescription as well as instructions on how to take it. Make sure to check in with your physician frequently to determine how the medicine is working.

Long-acting

ADHD medications can aid in focusing your brain, just as a pair glasses can improve your vision. They boost the levels of chemicals important for focus and attention. The two main types of medication are stimulants (e.g. amphetamines, amphetamines and methylphenidates) and non amphetamine adhd medication-stimulant drugs.

Short- and long-acting stimulant medications are available to those suffering from ADHD. They work in 70-80% cases. Long-acting ADHD medication is administered in stages that have some of the dose released immediately after taking the morning pill and the rest released throughout the day. They can decrease the number of pills needed to take daily and are simpler to remember and provide more consistently the dosage of medication than short-acting medications. They also have fewer side-effects and "ups & downs" in comparison to short-acting medicines.

Non-stimulant

Around 70 to 80 percent of children and adults can be treated with medication which reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications enhance their ability to focus and control impulsivity. They can also improve academic performance and social skills. In fact, medication is often the primary treatment of choice for people who suffer from ADHD. The medication can be utilized in combination with other treatments, such as behavior therapy.

Drugs that stimulate, like Ritalin or Adderall, increase the levels of neurotransmitter hormones norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This improves the exchange between nerves and messages, which helps to control the intensity of impulsivity and focus. Stimulant medications are available in immediate-release, extended-release and long-acting tablets. The most popular stimulants are Ritalin Concerta Adderall Vyvanse. The instant-release version, which is administered in small doses throughout the day to provide quick relief from symptoms, is generally used in smaller doses. The longer-acting and extended-release forms are typically taken daily and provide a longer-lasting relief of symptoms.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved a variety of nonstimulant medications to treat ADHD. The most frequently prescribed nonstimulant medication is atomoxetine (Strattera). A newer medication, Qelbree, is another option. These medications do not contain amphetamine or methylphenidate and aren't controlled substances, which means that they are less prone to abuse.

Clonidine and Guanfacine are both nonstimulant medications. These are more frequently prescribed for those suffering from a mix of Tourette syndrome and ADHD. They take several weeks to start working and reduce tics and anxiety. These medications can raise blood pressure and heart rate.

The medications are not always effective or well-liked. The first medication one takes to treat ADHD might not be the best one or cause unpleasant or intolerable side effects. The doctor can help by altering the dosage or switching to another medication.

It is essential to inform your doctor about all the medications you or your child takes including prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as supplements. This information is used to avoid interactions between different medications. It is important to inform your doctor of any changes in your mood or behavior that could be a sign of a problem.