Medications For ADHD
Stimulants are drugs that increase the amount of chemicals in your brain, helping to control symptoms. They are the first option that doctors recommend.
The treatment for ADHD usually includes medication, counseling and lifestyle modifications.
Adults suffering from ADHD are often prescribed Guanfacine (Strattera) viloxazine or atomoxetine. They are in a different class of medication from stimulants and have less risk of misuse and addiction.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine which can help people suffering from ADHD control their impulsive behaviors and concentrate. They also aid in improving alertness and memory. Doctors frequently prescribe these medications for children, adolescents and adults with ADHD. However, they do not cure the disorder. To make a difference, they must be taken regularly. They are not a substitute for therapy, training in skills and healthy lifestyle adjustments.
Ritalin Concerta Focalin and Ritalin are all methylphenidates. Amphetamines are stronger than methylphenidates, comprise Adderall and Vyvanse. There are long-acting versions of these medications like Daytrana which is a skin patch that adheres to children's skin for a period of 10-12 hours and Adzenys XR -ODT which dissolves in the mouth without swallowing and can result in effects lasting up to 16 hours.
Both kinds of medications can trigger side effects, like headaches, jitters and trouble sleeping. They can also impact growth and development which is why doctors must monitor their use with care. Doctors frequently offer their patients a test period of various medications to determine the right one for them. They might ask the patient, the instructor, and the parent to fill out the behavioral ratings scales. They can also track the patient's progress towards specific objectives and note any side effects.
Non-stimulants might take longer to work and they may not completely relieve symptoms. However, they can increase concentration and attention, as well as impulsivity. adhd medication names controlled substances, so they are less likely to be misused or become addictive. Doctors often prescribe them to children and teens who have ADHD as well as anxiety or depression and can reduce the severity of those disorders.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), belong to the category of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). FDA-approved for ADHD, they were initially utilized "off-label", because they were approved for lowering blood pressure. Viloxazine and Atomoxetine, as opposed to stimulants that boost dopamine levels, increase norepinephrine. This is a brain chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells.
In some instances doctors may recommend other SNRIs such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) or mirtazapine (Zyban) to treat ADHD. They may also be prescribed to children suffering from ADHD who also have a tic disorder, such as Tourette syndrome.
Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from a mix treatment of medication, therapy, and other methods. Some patients are able to stop taking their medication, but for others, medication is part of a lifelong commitment. The symptoms usually return after the medication is gone, and some people do better on low doses than those on higher. Medical professionals should be aware of the dosages they administer as they can worsen certain conditions such as depression or heart problems. A new medication can make some people feel irritable or anxious at first, but the feeling typically disappears after some time. Some medications can also affect certain drinks, foods and vitamins.