ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter how the brain releases chemicals which affect concentration. does adhd medication work begin stimulants with ADHD patients, and gradually increase the dose until they are able to help.
Antidepressants are also taken by people with ADHD (not just for depression). These drugs work using the same chemical as stimulants, but have fewer adverse negative effects.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the first medications doctors usually prescribe for ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and other neurotransmitter-hormones which help people focus and reduce fatigue. These medications are usually prescribed for children, but are also available for adolescents and adults. They are the most frequently used medications for ADHD in the United States, but they can cause a variety of side effects. Some individuals need to switch between stimulant medications or dosages to determine the most appropriate one for them. Some people need to combine their medication and other methods of treatment.
Most ADHD medications are FDA-approved and have been through trials on humans to verify their effectiveness and safety. These drugs can help improve concentration, reduce symptoms of ADHD and can help prevent impulse control problems in both adults and children. They can reduce the risk of addiction to drugs in the future and help people suffering from ADHD learn to live more productive lives. Children who aren't treated for ADHD have a higher risk of developing addiction-related issues later in life. Adults who aren't treated for ADHD are at a higher chance of being involved in accidents in their motor vehicles, and making risky decisions like gambling or driving impaired.
The majority of doctors prescribe methylphenidate as the primary ADHD medication. It is available in capsules, tablets, or disintegrating tablets orally. It is also available as a long-acting drug, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release), and a patch for medical use. Many brand-name ADHD medications are now available in generic versions, which cost less and could be preferred by insurance companies. The chemical composition of the medication is identical in the generic version as it is in the brand-name medication.
Amphetamines are often prescribed to treat ADHD but they also have a high potential for abuse and addiction. They are classified as a Schedule I drug, which means it is illegal to possess or sell them without a prescription. Doctors are more cautious when prescribing amphetamines to people who have a history of substance misuse or agitation. They may also cause heart problems in a few people.
Non-stimulant medicines are only prescribed when stimulant medications fail to work or produce unpleasant adverse side adverse effects. They can take up to six weeks to begin working and may need to be adjusted in dosage or timing. They increase the activity of norepinephrine in the brain, which aids with focus and attention. These medications are prescribed to treat other disorders like hypertension and depression, but they have been shown to decrease ADHD symptoms.
It's normal for you to need to try several ADHD drugs before you find the one which works best for your specific needs. Be patient and remain in touch with your doctor. They can alter your medication or dosage when needed.
It's important that you understand that despite the positive effects of certain ADHD medication, it is still necessary to use an entire approach to control symptoms and achieve the best results [1]. Other options include CBT, behavior modification and dietary modifications.