Why We Are In Love With Best Medication For ADHD (And You Should, Too!)
Why We Are In Love With Best Medication For ADHD (And You Should, Too!)
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Best Medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who are taking ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They also feel calmer and more focused with their school work. Some experience a minor slowing in growth and could have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these drugs.
They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate release, extended-release, and sustained-release.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drugs that is effective in treating ADHD. These drugs improve focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex region that is often referred to as the brain's "secretary" because it helps in the planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a every day. They include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates however, they both function in the same way to improve concentration and attention. Certain stimulant medications are available in extended-release versions. They are the best choice because they last between 8 to 12 hours and are generally taken only every day. Some of these medicines are a powder that is mixed with liquid to create a drink, while others are pills.
It can take time to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will be able to monitor your reaction to different kinds of medicines and adjust the dosage if needed. Medications should only be used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan that will include support and behavioral therapy services.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to kick in but they can help you feel more in control and increase your concentration, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine the same way that stimulants do. They are therefore able to be employed for a longer duration. They also have less adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn, and reduced sex drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine. These are both medications within this category.
Non-stimulant antidepressants that are off-label can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past like Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. Doctors only recommend these drugs in cases where stimulants or other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many side consequences.
Your doctor can prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications do not have a direct effect, but help reduce impulsivity and improve concentration over time. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs compared to the others and can cause side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor might also recommend a low dose of an antidepressant, called bupropion (Wellbutrin), which is not an FDA-approved treatment for ADHD but can be effective to improve concentration and decrease the impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable here but not always serious side effects such as ringing or changes in vision.