ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can help alleviate a variety of symptoms of the disorder, but they cannot solve it. Typically, your physician will prescribe medication in conjunction with education, counseling, and behavior therapy.
Stimulant drugs are among the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. They function by increasing and balancing levels of brain chemicals that regulate attention and behavior. They include methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin) and amphetamines, such as Dexedrine.
Methylphenidate
Of the most extensively researched stimulant medications for ADHD, methylphenidate is proven to be safe and effective for children and adults. The medication is available in different forms that include chewable tablets, liquids, pills, and extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer form that only contains right-handed molecules, not the left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR; Generic name dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Some people may experience side-effects from methylphenidate, such as nausea and headaches. These side effects are usually mild, and they disappear once the patient has become accustomed to the medication. Speak to your doctor if you experience any side effects persist. They could alter your dosage, or prescribe an entirely new medication.
In certain instances methylphenidate can trigger mood changes, for example, being depressed or angry. This isn't common, but it can be serious if you have a preexisting mental illness like bipolar disorder. In rare instances methylphenidate could cause a manic episode in people with bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, which is not good for those with heart issues. The drug should be avoided by anyone with a history of heart failure or structural heart disease particularly children and young adults. It should not be used by those who suffer from phenylketonuria, a genetic condition that requires a low-protein diet plan. You should always tell your doctor if you suffer from a heart problem before taking this medication.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine, an FDA-approved drug is used to treat attention-hyperactivity disorder in children and adults. It is also a reliable treatment for binge eating disorder (BED). It is a central nervous system stimulant that increases the activity in specific areas of the brain. dealing with adhd without medication is available on prescription only.
When taken with other medications such as sedatives and anticholinergics, the drug can cause serious adverse side effects. This combination may increase the risk of having seizures and heart issues. This could be risky when operating machinery or driving. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Vyvanse, and be careful not to drive until you know how the drug affects you. Make use of a medication return program, or mix your medication with a non-toxic substance such as cat litter or dirt prior to throwing it into the household trash.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have shown that it is as effective as long-acting methylphenidate and non-stimulant Atomoxetine. A recent European study also found that lisdexamfetamine was more effective than the methylphenidate.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine have shown that the drug can enhance performance in both work and school environments. A small open-label study conducted by Brown et. al37 revealed significant improvement in a simulated workplace. Another study by Wigal et al38 revealed improvements in performance on a permanent Product Measure of Performance test.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is different from stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall(dextroamphetamine), or Vyvanse(lisdexamfetamine). It is not a central nerve system stimulant, but instead a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is an organic chemical that transmits messages from one nerve cell to another brain cell. After sending a message noradrenaline is reabsorbed by nerve endings as part of a recycling process. Atomoxetine blocks this recycling process and increases the levels of active noradrenaline in the brain. This improves attention and reduces impulse-driven behavior.
The medication is consumed orally and comes in capsule form. It is usually given once or twice per day, however it can be given more frequently when needed. It is essential to follow the doctor's directions carefully, especially at the beginning of treatment. It is best to take the medicine with food and drink a large glass of water. Do not mix with hot drinks or any other medication unless you are told otherwise.
Studies show that atomoxetine helps improve ADHD symptoms in adolescents and children however it is less efficient than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate. It is also less effective than non-stimulant medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants, as well as clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. Avoid this by not rising too quickly after lying down. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol when you are taking this medication. In addition, you should discuss with your doctor the best diet for you or your child.
Adderall
Adderall is an stimulant for the central nervous system that helps to increase alertness and attention. It works by raising the levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain: dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine enhances positive behavior, while norepinephrine regulates the heart rate, blood pressure and blood vessels.
When taken at doctor-recommended dosages, Adderall doesn't cause a feeling of being high. non prescription adhd medication can, however, cause adverse effects such as dry mouth and insomnia. If your child or teen experiences these symptoms, talk to their physician. The doctor might be able to alter the dose or switch medications.
The use of stimulant medications is a typical treatment for ADHD however, it can cause problems in some kids. These problems can be a result of poor school performance to social issues. Teens also abuse stimulants to get an energy boost. They can trigger addiction. Most of these problems are preventable.
Some kids with ADHD are unable to sleep at night. The medication could aid them in sleeping. However, it's important to limit caffeine intake and screen time prior to bedtime. Avoid alcohol when taking this medication.
Adderall is a controlled substance. It can cause a false positive on drug screening tests. Therefore, it's essential to inform the authorities when you are working or playing sports. The length of time that Adderall stays in the body varies from person to person, so it's best not to take it in the last two to four days before your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine, a powerful stimulant can affect the central nervous systems. It works similarly to other ADHD medications by increasing the brain's Neurotransmitters. This increases the brain's neurotransmitters, and reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity. It also improves listening and alters how people feel. It is available in tablets that are short-acting and extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule). It is classified as a Schedule II drug, meaning it has the potential to create addiction. It also increases blood pressure and heart rate. If this happens, tell your doctor immediately.
Many children with ADHD experience side effects when taking stimulant drugs. They may experience an upset stomach sleep issues, stomach pains, or become irritable or aggressive. These adverse effects can be reduced or eliminated by altering the dosage of the formula, formulation, or type of medication.
The medication does not cure ADHD however they can assist children to manage their emotions and focus. They can also improve their academic performance. However, ADHD symptoms will return when the medication is stopped. Therefore, they must be taken as directed by the doctor.
Doctors should monitor the heart rhythm and blood pressure. They can also trigger sleep problems and changes in appetite. The best way to treat ADHD is to use a combination of medication, therapy, and skills training. Children with ADHD are less able to achieve full scale IQs compared to those without. They are more likely than other children to require special education or remedial academic services, and to take longer to finish high school. They are more likely to drop out of college.
Ritalin
Ritalin the first drug used to treat ADHD in children, was developed with kindergarteners and 1st graders in mind. They only required it for three or four hours each day. However, as children age, their need to concentrate is increasing, and they require longer-lasting medications. There are medications that act like stimulants but last for up to 12 hours. These are referred to as "methylphenidates" and they increase two chemicals that influence concentration in the brain: dopamine, and norepinephrine. The medicine comes in many forms, such as pills that can be swallowed as a whole, or dissolved. It is also available in liquids that can be sucked into the oral cavity and patches that adhere to the skin.
The medication does not cure ADHD however it can aid in staying focus and less tense at work or at school. It helps you follow directions and listen. But it can cause side effects such as difficulty sleeping, appetite issues and abdominal pain. It can also cause a worsening of symptoms such as anxiety and agitation. It can also trigger psychosis. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
The DEA classifies stimulant medications as Schedule II drugs due to the fact that they can be abused. Only available with a prescription from a doctor and should be kept away from youngsters and adults who could abuse them. Atomoxetine, Guanfacine, and other Schedule II drugs have fewer side-effects than stimulants.