ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter how the brain releases chemicals that affect focus. Doctors typically start patients with ADHD on stimulants and increase the dose that can help them.
People who suffer from ADHD also use antidepressants (they're not just for depression). These medications work on the same chemicals as stimulants but have fewer adverse consequences.
Stimulants
The first medication that doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. They increase levels of two neurotransmitter hormones, dopamine and norepinephrine, which can help people focus and reduce fatigue. These medications are usually prescribed for children, however they are also available for adults and adolescents. These are the most frequently prescribed for ADHD in the United States. However, they can have a wide range of side effects. Certain people have to switch between stimulant medication or dosages in order to find the right one for them. Others need to combine their medication with other methods of treatment.
The majority of ADHD medications are FDA-approved and have been through human trials to verify their effectiveness and safety. These medications can help improve concentration, reduce issues with impulse control and reduce the symptoms of ADHD in children and adults. They can lower the risk of relapse into addiction and help people with ADHD develop more productive lives. Children who aren't treated for ADHD are at a higher risk of developing problems with drugs as they grow older. Untreated adults with ADHD are more likely to be involved in accidents with motor vehicles and make risky decisions like taking risks while driving, or gambling.
The first kind of ADHD medication that doctors recommend is the methylphenidate (MPH dexmethylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine). It is available as a tablet, capsule or disintegrating tablets orally. It is also available as a long-acting drug, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release) and medical patches. Many brand-name ADHD medications are now available in generic versions, which cost less and may be preferred by insurance companies. The chemical makeup of the medication is identical in the generic version as it is in the branded medication.
Amphetamines are sometimes prescribed to treat ADHD however they also have a high potential for abuse and addiction. Schedule I drugs are illegal to be sold or possessed without the prescription of a doctor. Doctors are more cautious in prescribing amphetamines for people who have had prior history of abuse of substances or anxiety. Certain people might also experience heart problems when taking amphetamines.
Non-stimulant medications are usually tried only in cases where the patient doesn't respond to or can't take stimulant medications or they cause unpleasant side effects. These drugs can take up to six weeks to work and may require dosage or timing adjustment. They increase activity in the brain neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which helps people focus and pay attention. These drugs are prescribed to treat other disorders like depression and hypertension, but they have been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It's normal for you to have to try a variety of ADHD medications before you discover the one that works best for your needs. adhd without medication and keep in contact with your doctor. They will be able to adjust your medication or dosage when needed.
It is important to understand that despite the positive effects of certain ADHD medications, it's still important to take a comprehensive approach in order to control symptoms and achieve the best results [11. Other options include CBT as well as behavior modification and changes to diet.