ADHD Medication List
Stimulant drugs, like Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin and Concerta, are the most commonly used ADHD medications. They increase the levels brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity.
These medications can cause side effects. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best dosage and medicine for you or your child.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most commonly used type medication used by healthcare providers to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which aid people to pay attention, think clearly, and remain focused. In the majority of cases, around 80% of children suffering from ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms after the doctor determines the appropriate stimulant medication and dosage. Stimulants may be taken through mouth, patch or via injection. Certain people with ADHD also take nonstimulant medication to alleviate symptoms. It takes time to find the correct dosage, medication, and schedule for each person suffering from ADHD.
The first stimulant drug an individual with ADHD uses may not be effective or have undesirable adverse effects. If a person isn't seeing improvement after a few weeks or if their symptoms return then the doctor may recommend another medication.
The medication is only available on prescription from your doctor or another qualified provider. They are not sold over-the market (OTC). It is not recommended that people use supplements or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD. how does medication for adhd work could interfere with your prescription.
There are many types of stimulant medications, such as amphetamines (Adderall and Ritalin), dextroamphetamines (Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (Ritalin). These drugs are mostly sold as pills, but some also come in patches, liquids, or chewable tablets. Doctors may suggest extended-release or long-acting medications to minimize the chance of misuse. The medications are slowly absorbed in the bloodstream, and then fade slowly. This can reduce the effects of "the rebound effect," which is when a person's mood and energy decreases when their medication wears off.
These medicines typically begin to work within 30-60 minutes, and their effects last for 3-4 hours. Most people take them two or three times a day.
Short-acting stimulants can cause an "crash" and cause people to feel angry hungry, tired, and fatigued. Some people with ADHD experience tics. These are repetitive sounds or movements that include throat clearing or blinking of the eyes. They aren't caused by medication, but they might get worse if the medication is stopped.
The risk of addiction or abuse is minimal for any stimulant. However, it is unlikely to occur in the low doses that are prescribed to treat ADHD. The risk is greater for adolescents and young adults and may also be higher for those who have a history or addiction to drugs.
The most frequent adverse effects of stimulants are stomach upset, headaches and an increased heart rate. These effects typically disappear after some weeks of taking the medication, but in the event that they don't, speak to your doctor.
People suffering from ADHD need to tell their doctor if they have an history of anxiety, depression or heart disease high blood pressure. They should also inform their doctor if they are taking any other medications or caffeine drinks, since they could interfere with the medication's effectiveness. It is also recommended to talk with their doctor about any family history of alcoholism, or other mental health issues.