ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can alleviate many symptoms of the disorder, but they can't solve it. Typically your doctor will prescribe medication along with counseling, behavior therapy and education services.
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulant drugs. They work by boosting and balancing the levels of brain chemicals that control attention and behavior. They include methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin) and amphetamines like Dexedrine.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is one of the most studied stimulant medications used to treat ADHD. It has been shown to be safe and effective for both children as well as adults. It is available in a variety of forms including tablets, liquids chewable tablets, and extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer formulation that is composed of only right-handed molecules and not left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR Generic name is dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Some people may experience side effects from the methylphenidate medication, including nausea or headaches. These side effects are typically minor, and disappear as the patient becomes familiar with the medication. If these side effects persist consult your physician. They might suggest changing your dosage or prescribe a different medication.
In certain instances methylphenidate may cause mood changes, for example, feeling depressed or aggressive. This is rare however it can be a serious issue for people suffering from mental illness such as bipolar disorder. In rare cases, methylphenidate can also spark a manic episode in people who suffer from bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can increase your blood pressure and heart rate and is not recommended for anyone with heart problems. The drug should be avoided by anyone who has an existing history of heart failure or structural heart diseases, particularly in young adults. It should not be used by people suffering from phenylketonuria. It is an inherited condition that requires a low-protein eating plan. Consult your physician prior to taking this medication if you have an issue with your heart.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is an FDA-approved medication, is used to treat attention-hyperactivity disorder in children and adults. It is also an option for treating binge-eating disorder (BED). It is a central nerve system stimulant that works by increasing the activity of certain regions of the brain. It is available through prescription only.
The drug can cause serious side effects when taken in combination with other medications, such as sedatives or anticholinergics. This combination may increase your risk of having heart problems and seizures. This can be dangerous when driving or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Vyvanse, and be careful not to drive until you are aware of how the drug affects you. Use a medication take-back program or mix your medication with a nontoxic substance like cat litter or dirt before throwing it in the trash of your home.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine show that it's as effective as the long-acting methylphenidate substances and the non-stimulant Atomoxetine. A recent European study also showed that lisdexamfetamine is more efficient than methylphenidate.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have shown that it improves performance in both school and workplace environments. A small study with an open-label label by Brown et. al37 revealed significant improvement in a simulated workplace environment. A different study by Wigal and al38 showed improvements in performance on a permanent Product Measure of Performance test.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine differs from stimulants like Ritalin, Adderall(dextroamphetamine), or Vyvanse(lisdexamfetamine). It is not a central nerve system stimulant, but rather a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is an organic chemical that transmits messages from one nerve cell to another in the brain. After sending a message, noradrenaline gets reabsorbed by the nerve endings in a recycling process. Atomoxetine stops this recycling and boosts the amount of active noradrenaline within the brain. This can improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The capsules are available in oral form. The medication is typically prescribed twice a day or once a day, but can be given more frequently if required. It is important to follow the doctor's directions closely, particularly at the beginning of treatment. Consume the medicine with a meal and drink plenty of fluids. Do not mix with hot drinks or other medicines unless you are told otherwise.
Studies show that atomoxetine helps improve ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents but it is not as efficient than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate. It is also less effective than nonstimulant medication, like tricyclic antidepressants as well as clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. Avoid this by not getting up too quickly after lying down. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol when taking this medication. You should also consult your doctor about the most suitable diet that you or your child could follow.
Adderall
Adderall is a medication used to improve alertness and concentration. It works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain: norepinephrine as well as dopamine. Dopamine boosts positive behavior while norepinephrine regulates blood pressure, heart rate, and blood vessels.
If taken in the recommended dosages prescribed by a doctor, Adderall doesn't cause a feeling of being high. It can still cause side effects like dry mouth and insomnia. If your child or teen has these symptoms, speak to their physician. The doctor could be in a position to switch medications or alter the dosage.
Stimulant drugs are a typical treatment of ADHD, but they can cause problems for certain children. These issues can be anything from poor school performance to social issues. Stimulants are also abused by teenagers to get an "buzz." They can even cause addiction. Fortunately, most of these issues can be prevented.
Certain children with ADHD have difficulty sleeping at night. The medication can aid them in sleeping better. However, it's essential to limit caffeine intake and screen time prior to the time of bed. It's also recommended to stay clear of alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall contains amphetamine, controlled substance. It can result in false positives on drug tests. Therefore, it's crucial to inform the authorities when you are working or playing sports. The amount of time Adderall remains in the body varies from individual to person, so it's best not to take it in the last two to four days before your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It functions similarly to other ADHD medications by increasing the neurotransmitters in the brain. It increases the brain's neurotransmitters, and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. It also improves listening abilities and alters how a person is feeling. It is available in short-acting tablets and extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule). It is a Schedule II substance, which means it is able to cause addiction. It can also raise the heart rate and blood pressure. Inform your doctor right away when this happens.
Many children with ADHD have side effects from stimulant medications. They might experience an upset stomach or sleep issues or become irritable or aggressive. These side effects can be controlled or eliminated by altering the dosage and formula or the kind of medication.
The medications do not cure ADHD however they can aid a child to control their emotions and stay focused. They can also assist them in performing better at school. If the drugs are stopped, ADHD symptoms may return. Therefore, they must be taken as prescribed by an experienced physician.
Doctors should be aware of blood pressure and heart rhythm. They can also trigger sleep problems and changes in appetite. The best approach to treat ADHD is to combine medication, therapy and skills training. Children with ADHD have lower full-scale IQs than those who do not have. They are more likely to require special education and remedial academic services, and require more years to finish high school. They are also more likely to drop out of college.
Ritalin
When Ritalin was first introduced to treat ADHD it was created with first-graders and kindergarteners in mind, as they only require the medication for three or four hours each day. As children age get older, they are less able to concentrate, and so require longer-lasting medications. There are some medications that act like stimulants, but last up to 12 hours. over the counter adhd medication are referred to as "methylphenidates" and they increase two chemicals that affect concentration in the brain: dopamine, and norepinephrine. The medications come in various forms, including pills that can be swallowed, chewed on or dissolved, liquids that are sucked into the mouth, and a patch that sticks to the skin, similar to a band-aid.
The medication doesn't cure ADHD however it can aid people in staying focus and less tense at work or in class. It helps to follow instructions and listen. It can also result in side effects like abdominal pain, difficulty sleeping and appetite problems. It can also worsen symptoms like anxiety, agitation, or psychosis. Contact your doctor immediately when you experience any of these symptoms.
The stimulant drugs have the potential to become abused, so they are classified as Schedule II drugs by the DEA. Only available with a prescription from a doctor, they must be kept out of the reach of people of all ages who might use them. Atomoxetine and guanfacine as well as other Schedule II drugs have fewer side-effects than stimulants.