Medications For ADHD
The most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in improving concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can trigger negative side effects, such as headaches, stomach upsets, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates comprise the two main groups of stimulants. They are available in liquid and chewable forms and are sold as short-acting, intermediate- or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They increase the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which improves focus and attention. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release forms. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines and dextroamphetamine (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects and a high abuse potential. These medications should only be taken with a physician's approval. A natural supplement called L-tyrosine can also increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, but it should not be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments include therapy, medication, behavior changes and skills training. This is sometimes referred to multimodal treatment. The medications can improve symptoms for most adults and children, but they aren't able to cure the problem. They must be taken on a regular basis to achieve the best results. In many cases, medications must be adjusted to find the lowest dose that effectively controls the symptoms while causing minimal adverse negative effects.
Some people feel their symptoms ease by taking a quick-acting stimulant in the morning and then follow it up with an extended-release drug in the late afternoon and evening. This can help avoid the risk of a "crash" which could cause short-term fatigue and a negative mood.
In the last couple of decades, amphetamines were widely abused by athletes, truck drivers, and students for non-medical purposes, primarily to boost their alertness and performance. These drugs can reach the brain quickly and induce a feeling of euphoria energy, alertness and energy. medication for autism and adhd can be snorted, injected, or taken in the form of a smoke. Some of these substances are addictive.
The FDA has approved atomoxetine also known as Vyvanse (Vyvanse), and guanfacine, or Fastin (Guanfacine), to treat adult ADHD. These are in a class of medicines that are called alpha-2 adrenergic agonists, which are originally created to lower blood pressure. These drugs are effective in treating ADHD, as they have a relaxing effect and decrease hyperactivity and aggression. These medications are safe however, they can have serious side effects. They also can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Clonidine (Kanerol), and antidepressants are also utilized to treat ADHD. They can be helpful in controlling ADHD symptoms for some individuals, but they are frequently prescribed when stimulants don't provide sufficient relief or have undesirable adverse effects. Tricyclic antidepressants imipramine as well as nortriptyline have been proven to be effective in certain instances however, they are also linked to challenging reactions such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people with ADHD do not require medication but they can benefit by developing healthy habits of living and strategies for coping. Some adults with mild to moderate symptoms can manage symptoms by exercising and eating a healthy diet, while others need the help of a therapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy in which you learn skills to change the behavior and thinking patterns of people. Other self-help techniques such as diet changes and supplements, can be beneficial, but should only be used with medical advice.