ADHD Medication Names
Medicines ease symptoms of ADHD In about 70 percent to 80% of adults and children. They help children focus and decrease hyperactivity. The health care team will assess the effectiveness of the medication effective and may alter the dosage or frequency of use.
Stimulants help neurons transmit signals. Examples are methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). Both atomoxetine and Guanfacine- both alpha agonists - are used to treat ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used ADHD medications and can help control symptoms for people of all different ages. These drugs increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, which enhances concentration and focus, while decreasing hyperactivity. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are amphetamines as well as methylphenidate. Adderall Ritalin and Dexadrine are well-known brand names. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine (meth) and crystal meth, cocaine and bath salts made from synthetic cathinones (ecstasy).
Stimulant medication can cause adverse effects, such as stomach upset, decreased appetite, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. People who take stimulants for long periods may also have the "rebound effect," which means they become more hyperactive after the drug wears off. They might also suffer from mood changes, such as anxiety and depression. These side effects usually decrease with time as the body adjusts to the medication.
The majority of doctors recommend combining psychiatric medications with behavioral therapy to enhance the management of symptoms. Behavioral therapy can teach both adults and children strategies to help control their symptoms. It can also help reduce stress and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.
ADHD medications aren't the cure, however, they can greatly enhance a person's quality of life. Numerous studies have shown that stimulants can be utilized in conjunction with other treatment methods such as education for parents and counseling to improve the control of symptoms.
Adults who suffer from ADHD differ from those used for kids, and the dosages are higher. It can take a while to determine the proper dosage and medication that manages symptoms with the least amount of side effects. Doctors prescribe various medications during the first few weeks of treatment to determine which is best for each patient.
Non-stimulant ADHD drugs take longer to start working and don't last as long as stimulants, yet they can still be helpful for certain people. These medications increase the amount of norepinephrine present in the brain. Norepinephrine enhances concentration and aids in controlling impulses. The medications that increase norepinephrine include the atomoxetine (Strattera) and the beta agonists that have a long-lasting effect, the clonidine chloride (Kapvay) and guanfacine chloride (Intuniv). dealing with adhd without medication controlled substances and therefore are less likely for abuse.
If ADHD medications aren't working for a person or have serious side effects, other medications for psychiatric disorders could be considered. Your doctor may suggest tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) or nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor), to help with anxiety and depression that can sometimes occur alongside ADHD. These medications also decrease the process of the brain's own natural chemicals, but don't have as strong an effect on heart rate and blood pressure as stimulants do. These medications are frequently used with stimulants in the treatment of ADHD because they improve concentration and focus.