ADHD Medication
Medication is often a part of an ADHD treatment plan. The two most commonly used stimulant drugs are dextroamphetamine as well as methylphenidate. Each of them has a variety of brands and each has a distinct chemical composition.
Stimulants increase brain chemicals that aid in transmitting messages between neurons. These are the first medication that healthcare professionals usually test for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Most doctors prescribe stimulants as the first treatment for ADHD. They increase levels of certain brain chemical dopamine, norepinephrine and norepinephrine. These chemicals help improve focus, reduce aggression, and help promote peace. Amphetamines, including methylphenidate, or atomoxetine (which is in the class of antidepressants called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors) are frequently prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. Heart-related complications that cause heart attacks are uncommon however, doctors will examine patients with heart issues closely when they are taking stimulants.
Stimulant medications are typically the most effective treatment for ADHD, especially in adolescents and children. These medications boost the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which helps them concentrate and learn. They also boost energy and improve alertness. These drugs, when used as directed can boost school performance. Many experts are concerned that students who use stimulants for a long time might develop a tolerance, and may require greater doses. They can also have negative side effects, such as changes in appetite, sleep disorders and depression.
over the counter adhd medication who prescribe ADHD medication typically start by prescribing a low dose, and then gradually increase the dosage over a couple of weeks. Your parents and you will be asked to keep track of the side effects and benefits of the medication. If the medicine doesn't appear to be working, or causes unwanted side effects that you're not able to deal with, your doctor might look into a different medicine.
Most kids and adults who use stimulant drugs experience at least some adverse effects. Most of these are mild and go away after several days or weeks when the body is used to the medication. The most frequent side effects are weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and an increased heart rate.
Some studies have revealed that those who use stimulant medications for ADHD are more likely to have tics, which are repeated movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. However, these drugs don't cause tics, they simply make them more noticeable. ADHD medication can cause changes in voice or mood, headaches, stomach upset and occasionally an increase or decrease in heart rate or blood pressure.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These medications work differently than stimulants. They increase the levels of norepinephrine which is a brain chemical that helps control the flow of thoughts and attention. They can reduce anxiety, depression and bipolar symptoms of bipolar disorder. They are less prone to side effects than stimulants, but they aren't as effective at treating ADHD symptoms. If you also have depression or bipolar disorder, your doctor may suggest that you try these drugs. They may also recommend psychosocial treatments to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.