Medications For ADHD
Stimulants are the most common treatments for ADHD. They boost attention speed and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, they can also cause side effects such as headaches, stomach upsets, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates make up the two major groups of stimulants. They are available in chewable or liquid form, and as short-acting, intermediate-acting, or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They work by increasing brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and attention. They are available in immediate-release and extended-release versions. The most popular stimulants are amphetamines, methylphenidate and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects and have a high abuse potential. These medications should only be taken with a doctor's approval. A natural supplement called L-tyrosine may also help increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels but it should not be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments include treatments, medication, behavioral changes, and training for skills. This is sometimes referred to multimodal treatment. The use of medicines can help alleviate symptoms in adults and children, but they cannot cure the condition. They must be taken on a regular basis to achieve the best results. In many instances, the medications will need to be adjusted to find the lowest possible dose that effectively treats symptoms and has the least amount of adverse negative effects.
Some people feel relief from their symptoms if they take a stimulant in morning and then supplement with an extended-release drug in late in the afternoon or evening. This can help avoid a "crash" after the medication wears off which can cause short-lasting fatigue and a bad mood.
During the past few decades, amphetamines have become widely abused for non-medical purposes, especially by truck drivers, athletes and students to help them stay awake and enhance performance. The brain is affected by these drugs quickly and induce a feeling of euphoria, energy and alertness. These drugs can be snorted, taken in a pill, or even consumed. Certain of these substances can also trigger addiction.
The FDA has approved atomoxetine, also called Vyvanse (Vyvanse), and guanfacine, also known as Fastin (Guanfacine) to treat adult ADHD. These medications are alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists originally intended to lower blood pressure. They are very useful for treating ADHD due to their calm effect and can help reduce hyperactivity, aggression and the inability to focus. These medications are safe however they can trigger serious negative side effects. They can also increase blood pressure and heart rate.
adhd medication ritalin (Kanerol), and antidepressants are also utilized to treat ADHD. They can be helpful in controlling ADHD symptoms in certain people, but are often prescribed when stimulants do not provide enough relief or cause unpleasant adverse effects. The tricyclic antidepressants imipramine, and nortriptyline have been proven to be effective in certain situations, but have been associated with serious negative side effects, such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people suffering from ADHD do not require medication, but they could benefit from adopting healthy lifestyle habits and coping strategies. Some adults with mild or moderate symptoms are able to manage their symptoms through exercise and diet, whereas others may require the assistance of therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy in which you learn methods to change the behavior and thinking patterns of people. Other self-help techniques like diet changes and supplements, could be beneficial, but should only be used under the guidance of a physician.