ADHD Medication List
The most commonly used ADHD medication is stimulant medications such as Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They boost the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity.
These medicines can cause adverse effects. Your healthcare provider can assist you in determining the most appropriate dosage and medication for your child or yourself.
Stimulants
Stimulants, which are the most popular type of medication used by healthcare providers to treat ADHD are stimulants. adhd medication adults uk increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which aid people to pay attention and think clearly. They also help people remain focused. In the majority of cases, 80% of children suffering from ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms after the doctor finds the right stimulant medication and dosage. Stimulants are available in the form of a patch, or as an oral injection. Some people suffering from ADHD take nonstimulant medication to help alleviate their symptoms. It takes time to determine the appropriate dosage, medication and schedule for each individual with ADHD.
The first stimulant drug someone with ADHD tries might not work or cause a number of unpleasant side effects. If a person doesn't see improvement after a few weeks or if their symptoms return, the doctor might try an alternative medication.
Medications are only available on prescription from your physician or other qualified provider. They aren't available for purchase over-the counter (OTC). You should not take vitamins or supplements claiming to treat ADHD in the event that they interact with your prescription.
There are many types of stimulant medications, including amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin), dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (Ritalin). Most of these drugs come in pill form, but some are available in chewable, liquid or patch tablets. The doctor might recommend extended-release or prolonged-acting medicines to reduce the risk of abuse. These drugs build up slowly in the bloodstream and disappear slowly. This can help reduce the symptoms of what is called "the rebound effect," when a person's mood and energy decreases when their medicine is finished.
The medicines usually begin to take effect within 30-60 minutes, and their effects last around 3-4 hours. Most people take them twice or three times per day.
Some people who use short-acting stimulants experience what's known as a "crash" when the effects of the drug diminish, and this can make them feel tired, irritable, and hungry. Some people with ADHD are also affected by tics, which are repeated motions or sounds that resemble eye blinks or throat clearing. These aren't caused due to the medication, but they might get worse if the medication is stopped.
There is a slight possibility of addiction or abuse with any stimulant, but this is not likely in the doses that are low to treat ADHD. The risk is higher for teens and young adults and may also be more pronounced for those with an addiction history or a history of drug abuse.
The most frequent adverse effects of stimulants are headache, stomach upset and an increased heart rate. These side effects usually disappear after several weeks of taking the medication, however should they not, talk to your doctor.
People with ADHD must inform their doctor if they have any history of anxiety or depression, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a heart condition or high blood pressure. They should also inform their doctor know if they are taking any other medications or caffeinated drinks, as they might interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. They should also inform their doctor about any family history of alcoholism, or other mental health problems.