Looking For Inspiration? Try Looking Up Medication For ADHD

Medications For ADHD

Stimulants are medications that increase levels of chemicals in the brain to ease symptoms. Most doctors recommend stimulants as the first treatment.

Medications are usually part of a treatment program for ADHD that includes counseling and lifestyle adjustments.

Adults with ADHD are usually prescribed guanfacine (Strattera) viloxazine or atomoxetine. They are in a different category from stimulants, and they have a lower risk of addiction and abuse.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which make it easier for people suffering from ADHD to concentrate and control their impulsive behavior. They also increase alertness and memories. Doctors frequently prescribe these medications for children, adolescents and adults suffering from ADHD. They cannot cure the disorder. For the medication to be effective they must be taken regularly.  dealing with adhd without medication  are not intended to replace therapy, skill training and healthy lifestyle modifications.

The majority of stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD are in the methylphenidate group, including Ritalin, Concerta and Focalin. Adderall and Vyvanse are amphetamines that are more potent than methylphenidates. Long-acting versions of these medications are available, like Daytrana that is a patch that sticks on kids' skin and lasts between 10 and 12 hours and Adzenys XR-ODT, which disintegrates in the mouth without needing to be swallowed and has an effect that can last as long as 16 hours.

Both types of medications can cause adverse effects, such as headaches or anxiety, or jitters. They can also impact the growth and development of a child which is why doctors be aware of their use. Doctors typically offer their patients a trial period of various medications to determine the right one for them. They may ask the patient, the teacher, and the parent to fill in the behavioral ratings scales. They may also monitor the patient's progress towards specific goals and note any side effects.

Nonstimulants may take longer to kick in and may not completely relieve symptoms. However, they can improve concentration and attention, as well as impulsivity. They aren't controlled substances, so they are less likely to be misused or develop into addictive. They are prescribed by a doctor to teenagers and children who have ADHD and anxiety or depression. They can reduce the severity of these disorders.

Strattera (atomoxetine), and Qelbree, (viloxazine), belong to the class of antidepressants referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). They are FDA-approved to treat ADHD, but they were initially prescribed "off-label" for the disorder because they were approved to lower blood pressure. Viloxazine and atomoxetine, in contrast to stimulants that increase dopamine levels, boost norepinephrine levels. This is a brain chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells.

In some cases doctors may suggest other SNRIs like bupropion (Wellbutrin) or mirtazapine (Zyban), to treat ADHD. They may also be prescribed to children with ADHD who have a coexisting disorder that causes tics, like Tourette syndrome.

Many people suffering from ADHD benefit from a combination of therapy, medication, and other methods of treatment. Some people can quit taking their medication however, others will continue to continue to take it for the remainder of their lives. The symptoms typically occur when the medication has worn off and some patients prefer taking a lower dose. Medications can also worsen certain conditions, such as depression or heart issues, so they need to be closely monitored by medical professionals. Some people may feel uneasy at first after taking the new medication however, this feeling typically goes away within several days. Some medications can also interfere with certain beverages, foods and vitamins.