ADHD Medication
Medication is often part of an ADHD treatment strategy. The two most popular stimulant drugs are dextroamphetamine as well as the methylphenidate. Each of these has many brand names and each has a different chemical makeup.
Stimulants boost brain chemicals that help transmit messages between neurons. These are the first medication that healthcare professionals typically try for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
The majority of doctors prescribe stimulants as the primary treatment for ADHD. They increase the levels of certain brain chemicals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine. These help improve focus, reduce impulsive behavior, and promote calmness. Amphetamines such as methylphenidate or atomoxetine (which is in the class of antidepressants called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors) are typically prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. Although serious heart complications are not common, doctors will closely monitor people with heart issues when they take stimulants.
Stimulant medication is typically the most effective treatment for ADHD particularly in adolescents and children. These medications boost brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which aids in their ability to concentrate and learn. They also boost energy levels and promote the state of being awake. When taken according to adhd otc medication , can improve school performance. However, many experts are concerned that students taking stimulants for prolonged periods of time may develop a tolerance and then require greater doses. They can also have negative side effects such as changes in appetite, sleep disorders and depression.
Doctors who recommend ADHD medication typically begin with a low dosage and gradually increasing the amount over a few weeks. You and your parents will be asked to keep track of the effects on you and the benefits of the medication. If the medicine doesn't seem to be working or causes side effects you can't cope with, your doctor might try another medicine.
The majority of children and adults who are taking stimulant medications experience some adverse effects. The majority of them are mild and will disappear after a few days or weeks when the body is used to the medication. Some of the more common side effects are weight loss, trouble sleeping, and a rapid heart rate.
Certain studies have found that those who take stimulant medications for ADHD are more likely to develop tics. These are repeated movements or sounds like eye blinking or a throat clearing. However, these drugs don't cause tics, they simply make them more obvious. ADHD medication can cause changes in mood or voice and headaches, stomach upset and occasionally an increase or decrease in blood pressure or heartbeat.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs perform differently than stimulants. They increase the levels of norepinephrine - the brain chemical that helps control the flow of thoughts and attention. They can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. They are less harmful than stimulants, but they aren't as effective to treat ADHD symptoms. If you are also suffering from bipolar disorder or depression your doctor may recommend that you try these medications. They may also suggest psychosocial treatment to manage your ADHD symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.