How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication

Medical treatments can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount the neurotransmitter norepinephrine that is found in the brain.

Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed treatment for children suffering from ADHD.

You can select between short- and long-acting dosages. They are more efficient and last 8-12 hours. They should be taken only once daily. They also lessen the rebound effect, where symptoms return, usually more than before, as the drug wears off.

Stimulants

Stimulants are among the most popular type of prescription medicine that healthcare professionals employ to treat ADHD. They function by increasing the levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in your brain called dopamine and norepinephrine, which help you pay attention and remain focused.

However, stimulants may cause side effects, especially when they are used for a long duration. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking these medications, and Treatment also about possible changes in mood, appetite and heart rate as well as how to treat adhd without medication in adults they affect your sleep.

If you take any stimulant medication adhd adults for prolonged periods of time, you could be at risk of developing an addiction or misuse. Addiction occurs the feeling that you are unable to resist the urge to take a stimulant even if it causes adverse effects. Addiction may manifest as a desire to take more than the amount your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on the drug.

Use of stimulant medicines can also lead to other health problems like depression or suicidal thoughts. If you think you or someone you know might be taking these medications to harm themselves or others, contact your local police or any other authorities immediately.

Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are two of the most frequently used stimulants for treating ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. The majority of these medications are taken twice or once daily.

The amphetamines with extended release are more effective than their short-acting counterparts. They last between six and eight hours, and can help you get through the day without having to deal with "ups and downs."

Extended-release stimulants can be paired with an immediate release medication in the afternoon. This can be helpful when your ADHD symptoms begin to appear late in the day , or if you are experiencing irritability due to the medication's effects fading earlier.

A small dose of a long-acting stimulant at time of bed is another option to aid you in falling asleep. It isn't advised to take this medicine with a full stomach, since it could cause a decline in energy and cause sleepiness.

Insomnia is a frequent side effect of stimulants in the beginning stages of treatment. It can be alleviated by not taking the medication prior to bedtime and getting enough sleep every night.

Another effect of stimulants is anxiety. It may be mild or serious and can cause tics. These are abrupt movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also contribute to a history of depression or bipolar disorder.

Although changes in blood pressure and heart rate can occur, the effects are rarely significant. Your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve your heart's function when you begin taking stimulants for ADHD.

ADHD medication can also trigger insomnia. The problem can be reduced when you are taking stimulants using prescription sleep aids or using techniques for relaxation or meditation prior to going to bed.