ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Doctors can also prescribe the older class of antidepressants called tricyclics to treat ADHD. adhd medication can cause serious side effects. Doctors usually only prescribe them if stimulants do not perform or cause unacceptable symptoms.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. They work by increasing the amounts of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. This improves concentration, decreases fatigue, and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity for the majority of people who use them. Stimulants can aid 70 percent to 80% of people with ADHD improve their performance. These drugs don't become habit-forming when taken in the doses prescribed for treating ADHD. However, they can be abused and lead to addiction. People who have a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol, or who are part of a family of substance abuse or mental health issues are at greater risk.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are among the most common stimulants used in treating ADHD. Generics are less expensive than brand-name drugs and are preferred by the majority of insurance companies. There are adhd medication uk that are available as extended-release tablets that you can take daily and can last up to 16 hours. This can lead to fewer "ups-and-downs" of symptoms. This is especially helpful for children.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) start working in 30 to 45 minutes. They last for about four hours. You can take them two or three times a day. They are usually the first type of medication that your doctor prescribes. Certain of them are available as chewable tablets, liquid or patches that are placed on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants are usually consumed every day in the morning and can last as long as 16 hours. They can help prevent the peaks in effectiveness that can occur after the short-acting stimulation has slowed down, which can lead to extreme hunger and low levels of energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants will supplement them by taking a small amount of immediate-release medication in the afternoon and evening.
There are a number of possible side effects of taking stimulants to treat ADHD, including headaches, stomachaches, nervousness, loss of appetite and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are mild to moderate and go away after some time as your body adjusts. Consult your physician when the side effects become severe or don't go away after a few weeks.
Non-stimulants
These medications are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medication and include atomoxetine, varenicline and bupropion. These medications are generally considered to have less risk of misuse than stimulants, yet they may still cause insomnia, agitation or anxiety.
Talk to your doctor about how you assess the benefits and risks of each medication option. Your doctor will consider your medical history as well as the severity of your symptoms, and any other medical conditions or illnesses you have. They'll also consider how each medication affects you or your child, and how well it works with other treatments. You'll need to inform your doctor about any foods or drinks you or your child takes and whether you're taking other medications, whether prescription or over the counter such as antidepressants.