ADHD Medication List
Stimulant medicines, such as Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin and Concerta are the most frequently used ADHD drugs. They increase the levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine to improve focus, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
These medicines can trigger side effects. Your healthcare team will help you find the best dosage and medication for your child or yourself.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used kind of medication that healthcare professionals employ to treat ADHD. They boost the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that help people pay attention and focus their minds. They also help keep them focused. In most cases, around 80% of children with ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms after the doctor has determined the correct stimulant dosage and dosage. Stimulants can be taken in the form of a patch, or as an oral injection. Some people with ADHD take nonstimulant medication to improve their symptoms. It takes time to find out the right dosage, medication, and schedule for each person with ADHD.
The first stimulant drug a person with ADHD tries might not work or cause a number of unpleasant side effects. If symptoms return or if a person does not see improvement after several weeks, the doctor may try an alternative medication.
Only prescriptions from a physician or other qualified doctor are accepted. They aren't available for purchase over-the counter (OTC). It's not recommended that you consume supplements or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD. They may interfere with your prescription.
There are many types of stimulant medications, such as amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin) as well as dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (Ritalin). These medications are generally available as pills, but they are also available in patches, liquids, or chewable tablets. To limit the chance of misuse, a doctor might suggest medications with a long-acting or extended-release. The medications are slowly absorbed in the bloodstream, and then disappear slowly. This can reduce the effects of "the rebound effect," which is when a person's mood and energy levels decrease after their medicine wears out.
The medications typically begin to work after 30-60 minutes and their effects last for about 3-4 hours. The majority of people who take them will take them two or three times a day.
Short-acting stimulants can cause a "crash", which can cause people to feel irritable, tired, and hungry. Some people suffering from ADHD suffer from tics. These are repetitive sounds or movements that include throat clearing or blinking of the eyes. These aren't caused due to the medication, but they could become worse when it's discontinued.
There is a small risk of addiction and abuse with any stimulant, but it is not the case with the doses that are low to treat ADHD. The risk is greater for adolescents and young adults and could also be higher for those who have a history or addiction to drugs.
Most stimulants can cause negative side effects, such as headaches, stomach upset, and a rise in heart rate. add adhd medications disappear after several weeks of taking the medication, however if they don't, talk to your doctor.
Patients with ADHD should inform their doctor if there is a history of depression, anxiety heart disease, depression, or high blood pressure. They should also let their doctor know if they're taking any other medications or caffeinated drinks in case they interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. They should also tell their doctor whether they have an alcohol-related family history or other mental health issues.