Medications For ADHD
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. They can be used quickly to improve focus and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. However, they can cause adverse effects, such as headaches, stomach upsets and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates make up the two major groups of stimulants. They come in liquid and chewable forms and are available as short-acting, intermediate- or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which enhance attention and focus. They are available in immediate release and extended-release versions. The most common stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines and dextroamphetamine (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects, and they have a significant risk of misuse. does adhd medication work should only be taken with a doctor's approval. L-tyrosine, a supplement that is natural can help increase dopamine levels and norepinephrine. However, it should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
The most effective treatments include therapy, medication, behavior changes and skill training. This approach is often described as multimodal therapy. The medications can improve symptoms for children and adults but they aren't able to cure the problem. They must be taken regularly to get the best results. In many cases, the medications will need to be adjusted to determine the dose that is lowest and effectively manages symptoms while causing the fewest adverse side negative effects.
Some people find that their symptoms get better by taking a short-acting stimulant in the early morning, and then add an extended-release medication in the late afternoon and evening. This can help avoid the risk of a "crash" after the medication wears off, which can result in short-lived fatigue and mood swings.
In the last few decades, amphetamines were widely utilized by truck drivers, athletes and students for a variety of non-medical reasons, mostly to stay awake and boost performance. These drugs reach the brain quickly and provide the feeling of euphoria and energy, as well as alertness. They can be snorted, injected, or smoked. Certain of these substances can also cause addiction.
The FDA has approved two medicines to treat adult ADHD which are atomoxetine (Vyvanse) and Guanfacine (Fastin). They are part of a class of medicines that are called alpha-2 adrenergic Agonists, which were initially designed to lower high blood pressure. These drugs are effective in treating ADHD because they have a calming affect and reduce the amount of hyperactivity and aggression. These medicines are not likely to cause serious side effects, however they can raise heart rate and blood pressure and could interact with some prescription or over-the counter medicines.
Other medications that treat ADHD include clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. These medications can control ADHD symptoms in some people. They are typically prescribed when stimulants fail to provide enough relief or cause unpleasant adverse effects. Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine and Nortriptyline are effective in certain instances but they also have adverse effects that are difficult to manage.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people with ADHD do not require medication, however, they can benefit from learning healthy lifestyle habits and coping techniques. Adults with mild to moderate symptoms can manage their symptoms through diet and physical activity and others require the help of a therapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a kind of therapy in which you learn skills to change the way people think and behave. Other self-help methods like diet changes and supplements, can be beneficial but should be utilized with the advice of a medical professional.