ADHD Medication List
The most popular ADHD medication is stimulant medications like Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity.
These medications can cause side effects. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best dosage and medication for you or your children.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used type of medication healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD. They boost 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 most cases, 80% or more of children suffering from ADHD see improvement in their symptoms when the doctor prescribes the appropriate stimulant medication. adhd medication for adults uk can be administered by mouth, patch or via injection. Some people with ADHD also take nonstimulant medications to improve symptoms. It takes time to find the right dosage, medication and schedule for each individual with ADHD.
The first stimulant medication a person with ADHD is trying might not be effective or cause unpleasant adverse effects. If symptoms return or if a person does not see improvement after several weeks the doctor might suggest a new medication.
Only prescriptions from a doctor or other qualified provider are accepted. They aren't available over-the-counter (OTC). It's not recommended that people take vitamins or supplements that claim to treat ADHD. They could interfere with your prescription.
There are a variety of stimulant medications, such as amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin) and dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (Ritalin). These medications are generally sold as pills, but some also come in patches, liquids or chewable tablets. Doctors may suggest extended-release or long-acting medications to reduce the risk of misuse. These medicines build up gradually in the bloodstream and disappear slowly. This helps reduce the symptoms of "the rebound effect," which is when the person's mood and energy decreases when their medication wears off.
The drugs usually begin to work after 30-60 minutes. The effects last for around 3-4 hours. Most people who take them will take them two or three times per day.
Short-acting stimulants can trigger the sensation of a "crash" and cause people to feel irritable or tired and hungry. Some people suffering from ADHD also experience what's known as tics, which are recurring movements or sounds like eye blinks or throat clearing. These aren't caused due to the medication, but they could become more severe if it's stopped.
The risk of addiction or abuse is minimal with any stimulant. However, it is unlikely to occur in the small doses used to treat ADHD. The risk is greater for young adults and teens and could also be higher for those with histories of substance abuse.
The most common side effects of stimulants are stomach upset, headaches and an increased heart rate. These side effects usually disappear after several weeks of taking the medication, but in the event that they don't, speak to your doctor.
Patients with ADHD need to tell their doctor if there is a history of anxiety, depression heart disease, depression, or high blood pressure. They should also let their doctor know if they are taking any other medications or drinks with caffeine in case they interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. They should also inform their doctor about any family history of alcoholism, or other mental health problems.