Medications For ADHD
Stimulants are one of the most popular treatments for ADHD. They work quickly to improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. But they can have negative side effects like headaches, stomach upsets, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
The majority of stimulants are part of two groups of drugs: methylphenidates and amphetamines. knowing it are available in chewable or liquid form, and as short-acting, intermediate-acting, or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs for ADHD. They work by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and attention. They come in immediate-release and extended-release versions. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines as well as dextroamphetamine (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects and have a high potential for abuse. These medications should be taken with a physician's approval. L-tyrosine, a supplement that is natural can also increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. However, it should only be taken under the supervision of a medical professional.
The most effective treatments include medication, therapy, behavior changes and skills training. This is sometimes referred to multimodal treatment. The drugs can help alleviate symptoms for most adults and children but do not cure the disease. To get the most effective results, they should be taken regularly. In many cases, medications may require adjustment to find the dosage that effectively controls the symptoms while causing minimal adverse consequences.
Some people find relief from their symptoms if they take a stimulant in morning and then add an extended-release medication late afternoon or evening. This can help avoid the risk of a "crash" which could result in short-term fatigue and a negative mood.
During the past few decades, amphetamines have become widely abused for non-medical purposes particularly by truck drivers, athletes and students to keep them awake and boost performance. These drugs reach the brain very quickly and give a feeling of euphoria energy, alertness and energy. These drugs can be snorted, injected, or smoked. Certain of these drugs may also cause addiction.
The FDA has approved two drugs to treat adult ADHD: atomoxetine (Vyvanse) and Guanfacine (Fastin). These medications are alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists, originally intended to lower high blood tension. These medications are effective in treating ADHD because they have a relaxing effect and decrease the amount of hyperactivity and aggression. These medicines are not likely to cause serious side effects but can raise blood pressure and heart rate and can interact with some prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Other medications to treat ADHD include Clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. These medications can help control ADHD symptoms for some people. They are typically prescribed when stimulants fail to provide sufficient relief or cause unpleasant side effects. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine or Nortriptyline are effective in certain situations however they can cause side effects that are difficult to manage.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people with ADHD don't need to take medication, but they may benefit from learning healthy ways of life and coping strategies. Certain adults with mild or moderate symptoms can manage symptoms through exercise and diet and others require the help of a psychotherapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy, also known as CBT is a form of therapy for talking that can teach skills that help change the way you think and behave. Other self-help treatments such as diet changes and supplements can be helpful however they should not be used without medical advice.