ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
The stimulants are used to increase the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are among the stimulants.
Doctors may also prescribe the older class of antidepressants, tricyclics, to treat ADHD. These medications can cause severe negative side effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them if stimulants don't work or cause symptoms that are too severe.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These drugs work by increasing the amounts of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. This helps improve concentration, reduces fatigue, and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity in the majority of people who take these medications. Stimulants can help about 70% to 80% of people with ADHD get better. These medications don't cause addiction when taken in the doses prescribed to treat ADHD. However they can be misused and lead to addiction. People who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, or an extended family history of substance abuse or mental health issues may be more at risk of this.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the most frequently used stimulants for treating ADHD. Most of these medicines are available as generics which are less expensive than brand-name drugs and are favored by a variety of insurance companies. Some are also offered as extended-release tablets that you take once a day and can last up to 16 hours. adhd medication could result in less "ups-and-downs" of symptoms. This is especially beneficial for children.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) begin working within 30 to 45 minutes. They last approximately four hours. You can take them two or three times a day. Most often, they are the first medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these are available as chewable tablets, liquid or a patch that goes on the skin.
Intermediate and long-acting stimulants are usually taken once a day in the morning and can last for up to 16 hours. They can help prevent the dips and peaks in effectiveness that can occur when short-acting stimulants lose their effectiveness which can result in extreme hunger and a lack of energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants supplement them with a small amount of immediate-release medication during the afternoon and evening.
There are many possible negative effects that can be triggered by taking stimulants for ADHD. These include nausea, headaches, inability to eat, nervousness and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are moderate to mild and will go away after a few weeks as your body adjusts. Talk to your doctor in the event that the side effects are extreme or persist after a few weeks.
Non-stimulants
These medications are called non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medication and include varenicline, atomoxetine and bupropion. The majority of these medications carry a lower risk for misuse than stimulants, yet they can still lead to anxiety, insomnia, or agitation.
Consult your physician to help you weigh up the benefits and risks of each treatment option. Your doctor will take into consideration your medical history, the severity of your symptoms, and any other medical conditions or illnesses you have. They'll also consider how each medication affects your child or you and how well it works with other treatments. You'll have to inform your doctor about any foods, beverages or supplements that you or your child take and if you're taking any other medications, whether prescription or over the counter, including antidepressants.