ADHD Medication Names
Medications ease symptoms of ADHD In about 70 percent to 80% of adults and children. They can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity and help children focus. The health care team will monitor the effectiveness of the medication working and may adjust your child's dose or frequency of use.
Stimulants aid neurons to pass along signals. Examples include methylphenidate, which is sold under the brand names Ritalin or Concerta, and dexamfetamine available under the brand name Vyvanse. relevant internet page and long-acting Guanfacine- both called alpha agonists can also help to treat ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most widely employed ADHD medication, can help anyone of any age manage their symptoms. These medications increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, which enhances concentration and focus, while decreasing hyperactivity. Amphetamines, methylphenidate and other stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed stimulants. Adderall Ritalin and Dexadrine are common brand names. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine (meth) and crystal meth, cocaine and bath salts made from synthetic cathinones (ecstasy).
Stimulant medication can cause adverse side effects like stomach upset, reduced appetite and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. People who take stimulants for long periods can also have an "rebound effect," which means they become more active when the drug has a chance to wear off. They might also experience mood swings, like anxiety and depression. These side effects tend to diminish over time as your body gets used to the medication.
Most doctors suggest combining psychiatric medications with behavioral therapy to enhance symptom control. Adults and children can learn strategies to control their symptoms through behavioral therapy. It can also help to reduce stress and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.
ADHD medications aren't a cure, however, they can greatly improve a person's quality of life. Numerous studies have proven that when stimulants are used in conjunction with other treatment methods, such as parent training and counseling, they may lead to improved symptom control.
Adults suffering from ADHD require different dosages of medication and dosages than children. It can take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and medication that controls symptoms with fewest adverse negative effects. Doctors prescribe a variety of medications in the initial few weeks of treatment to determine which one is the best for each individual patient.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to begin working and can't last as long as stimulants, however they can be beneficial for certain people. These medications work by increasing the amount of a chemical that is present in the brain called norepinephrine. Norepinephrine increases concentration and controls impulses. Drugs that increase the levels of norepinephrine include the atomoxetine (Strattera) and the alpha agonists with long-lasting effects, clonidine hydrochloride (Kapvay) and Guanfacine hydrochloride (Intuniv). These aren't controlled substances and therefore have a lower potential for abuse.
If ADHD medication isn't working or causes severe side effects, psychiatric drugs may be prescribed. Your doctor may prescribe a tricyclic medication, such as Tofranil (Imipramine) or Nortriptyline(Aventyl or Pamelor), to treat anxiety and depression which can occur with ADHD. These medications slow down the brain's natural chemical activity however they don't have same impact on the heart rate or blood pressure as stimulants do. They're often used in combination with stimulants to treat ADHD, because they have the additional benefit of helping improve focus and attention.