ADHD Medications
In addition to counseling and therapy In addition to therapy and counseling, those who suffer from ADHD may benefit from certain medications. These medicines boost and balance levels of brain chemicals that improve attention and reduce hyperactivity.
It could take some time to determine the most effective medicine for you. Your health care provider will monitor how the medication performs and assist you in creating a an appropriate schedule that meets your requirements.
Stimulants
Medications that affect certain brain chemicals that are involved in ADHD can aid in improving concentration, focus, and impulse control. Doctors prescribe stimulants and nonstimulants. The kind of medication that is appropriate for you or your child will depend on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms.
Stimulants are the most popular ADHD drugs. They increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can help improve attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are available in shorter- and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants are only effective for a short period of time, while long-acting stimulants stay throughout the day in your body.
Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from stimulant medication. The majority of doctors suggest starting with a small dosage and gradually increase the dosage. It may take a while to find the right dose for you or your child. You may also have to attend regular follow-up sessions with your doctor in order to adjust your dosage.
The effects of stimulant medications are usually mild and disappear within a few days. They may include a decrease in appetite, sleep problems and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate. If you or your child has a medical condition that increases the risk of certain adverse effects, your doctor will discuss these with you prior to prescribing any medication.
In some cases the use of excessive doses of stimulants could cause a sudden increase in blood pressure, heart palpitations, or even seizures. These drugs are not recommended for patients who have family history of heart disease or those who have an history of substance abuse. The use of stimulants can also cause the worsening of some psychiatric disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder. Consult your physician to determine if these medications are appropriate for you or your children.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are less likely to cause serious side effects and are typically considered an alternative treatment for those who aren't responsive to stimulants. They may include atomoxetine (Strattera) or Clonidine (Kapvay) or guanfacine (Intuniv). Sometimes they are prescribed "off-label", to treat other conditions such as anxiety or depressive disorders.
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and drisperidone (Dilantin). Both are available in tablet, liquid, and capsule form. They are usually taken orally once or twice per day. Guanfacine and Atomoxetine are available as extended-release tablets that you or your child could wear on the hip (Intuniv and Intuniv XR). adhd sleep medication are intended to be worn for up to a couple of weeks before they require replacement. All ADHD medication comes with some risk, and there is always the chance that they will not be effective or cause adverse side effects. For many people, particularly children and teens the benefits far outweigh the dangers. Having the ability to concentrate, focus and control impulses can make a big impact on their lives.