There's A Reason Why The Most Common Best Medication For ADHD Debate Actually Isn't As Black And White As You Might Think

There's A Reason Why The Most Common Best Medication For ADHD Debate Actually Isn't As Black And White As You Might Think

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Best Medication For ADHD

Children and teenagers taking ADHD medication tend to concentrate better, be less impulsive and more relaxed. They also get on with schoolwork. Some experience a minor slowdown in growth and may have an increased heart rate or blood pressure when taking these medications.

There are many different types of medications such as tablets, liquids, patches, and capsules (such as Daytrana). Adderall (methylphenidate) is the most well-known stimulant. It's available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release dextroamphetamine and extended-release amphetamine salts.

Stimulants

One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These medications improve concentration and attention by altering neurotransmitters, particularly norepinephrine as well as dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex, which is often referred to as the brain's "secretary" because it assists in the planning and organization abilities.

Stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak within 30 to 45 minutes and need to be taken two or three times per every day. These include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, but they all work in similar ways to improve concentration and attention. Some stimulant medications are available in extended-release versions. They are a good option since they last between up to 12 hours and are usually taken once per day. Some of these are a powder that is mixed with liquid to create a drink, and others are in pill form.

It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication for you or your child. Your doctor will monitor your reaction to different kinds of medications and adjust the dosage if needed. Medications should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that will include support and behavioral therapy services.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little longer to take effect however it can help you feel more in control, improve your impulsivity and concentration and help you concentration. These drugs don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same as stimulants do, which means they can be safer to use for longer periods of time. They can also be less prone to adverse effects, like heartburn, constipation and a reduced sex drive. Strattera is the first medication that was approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It's a selective reuptake norepinephrine inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medications in this group.

There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are available off-label to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry, such as Tofranil(imipramine), are used to treat ADHD. Doctors only suggest these drugs when stimulants and other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many side effects.

Your doctor may also prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications do not have immediate effects however they can reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. They're in a different class from the other choices and can trigger some adverse effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin) which is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and decrease impulsivity. It can have some unpleasant but usually not here severe, side effects, including hearing ringing, or changes in vision.