Best Medication For ADHD

Children and teenagers taking ADHD medication tend to concentrate better, be less impulsive, and feel more relaxed. They also have a better time with schoolwork. Some sufferers may experience a slowing of their growth or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when they are taking these drugs.

There are a variety of medications such as tablets, liquids patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine dextroamphetamine and extended-release amphetamine salts.

Stimulants

One of the best medications for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These drugs improve focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often called the "secretary of the brain" because it helps in planning and organization skills.

Stimulants are available both in short-acting as well as long-acting dosages. The short-acting medications peak in 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken two or three times per day. Amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among them. Amphetamines may be a bit stronger and last longer than methylphenidates, however they work in the same way to improve concentration and attention. There are also extended-release versions of a few stimulant drugs. They can be a better alternative since they last from up to 12 hours, and are usually taken once per day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquid to make drinks, while others are pills.

Finding the right medicine can take some time. Your doctor will observe your reaction to different kinds of medicines and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medicines should be part of an overall treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a little more time to work however it can help you feel in control, increase your concentration and impulsivity and increase your focus. These medications don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine the same way that stimulants do. They are therefore able to be employed for a longer duration. They can also be less prone to adverse effects, like heartburn, constipation and a lessened sexual drive. The first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera which is an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor may prescribe other medication for adhd and anxiety in adults from this category, including Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).

Non-stimulant antidepressants that are off-label can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These older tricyclic antidepressants like Tofranil(imipramine) are used to treat ADHD. These drugs are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants fail to work or if they cause too many adverse side effects.

Your doctor may also prescribe the atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These drugs do not have a direct effect however they can reduce the impulsivity of people and increase concentration over time. These drugs are part of a different class of drugs than the others and can trigger side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor may also suggest taking a low dose of an antidepressant known as bupropion (Wellbutrin), which isn't an FDA-approved treatment for ADHD but works well to improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity. It can cause unpleasant but not usually serious adverse effects, like ringing in the ears or changes in vision.