Medications For ADHD
The most common treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in improving attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can cause negative side effects, such as stomach upset, headaches and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
The majority of stimulants belong to two groups of drugs: methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. They are available in chewable or liquid form, as well as in short-acting intermediate-acting or longer-acting medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medications for ADHD. They boost brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which increase attention and focus. They are available in immediate-release and extended-release versions. The most commonly used stimulants include amphetamines, methylphenidate, and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). They can have serious side effects and a high abuse potential. These medications should be taken with a doctor's approval. L-tyrosine, a natural supplement, can also increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, but it should not be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments include treatments, medication as well as behavioral changes and skills training. This method is often called multimodal treatment. The medicines can ease symptoms in adults and children, but they don't cure the condition. They must be taken regularly to achieve the best results. In a lot of cases the medication will need to be adjusted in order to find the dose that is lowest and effectively manages symptoms while causing the fewest side effects.
concerta adhd medication from their symptoms if they take a stimulant in the morning, and then take an extended-release medication in the afternoon or in the evening. This can prevent a "crash" that can cause short-term fatigue and a bad attitude.
In the last few decades, amphetamines were extensively used for non-medical reasons in particular by truck drivers, students and athletes to stay awake and to enhance performance. These drugs are very fast acting and produce feelings of euphoria as well as energy. These drugs can be snorted, injected, or smoked. Some of these substances are addictive.
The FDA has approved two drugs to treat adult ADHD that are atomoxetine (Vyvanse) and guanfacine (Fastin). These are in a class of medicines known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, which are originally created to lower blood pressure. They are extremely effective in treating ADHD because they have a calm effect and can help reduce aggression, hyperactivity and the inability to concentrate. These medications are safe however they can trigger serious adverse effects. They also can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Other medications that treat ADHD include the clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. These medications can reduce ADHD symptoms for a few people. They are typically prescribed when stimulants fail to provide sufficient relief or cause undesirable side effects. The tricyclic antidepressants imipramine and nortriptyline have been proven to be effective in some cases, but have been associated with a variety of adverse negative side effects, such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people with ADHD do not need to take medication, but they may benefit from learning healthy lifestyle habits and coping skills. Certain adults with mild or moderate symptoms can manage symptoms through exercise and diet and others require the assistance of a therapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy which teaches skills to change the way people think and behave. Other self-help methods such as diet changes and supplements, can be beneficial but should only be used with medical advice.