ADHD Medication
Medication is often a part of an ADHD treatment plan. The most commonly used stimulant medications are methylphenidate and dextro-amphetamine. adhd otc medication of these stimulant medications has many different brand names and each has a distinct chemical makeup.
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that help send messages between neurons. These are usually the first drugs doctors try for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the primary medication most doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They increase levels of certain brain chemicals dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as norepinep. These chemicals aid in improving concentration, decrease aggressive behavior, and promote calmness. Amphetamines, such as methylphenidate or atomoxetine (which is in the class of antidepressants referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors) are frequently prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. Heart-related heart problems that are serious are not common, but doctors may be able to monitor patients with heart problems closely while taking stimulants.
Stimulant drugs are usually the most effective treatment for ADHD, especially in adolescents and children. These drugs increase the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, helping them concentrate, focus, and learn. These drugs also promote the ability to stay awake and alert. Studies have shown that when used as directed the drugs can dramatically improve school performance. However, many experts worry that students taking stimulants for long periods of time can develop a tolerance to them and may require greater doses. They may also trigger adverse side effects, like changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety or depression.
Doctors who prescribe ADHD medication typically begin with a low dosage and gradually increasing the dosage over a few weeks. They'll ask parents and you to be aware of the advantages and adverse effects of the medication. If the medicine does not appear to be working or causes side effects you aren't able to handle The doctor might suggest another medication.
The majority of kids and adults who use stimulant drugs experience at the very least some side effects. Most of them are mild and will go away within a few weeks or days after the body has become familiar with the drug. The most commonly reported adverse effects include weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and an increase in heart rate.
Certain studies have revealed that people who take stimulant medications for ADHD are more prone to tics. These are repeated sounds or movements such as eye blinking or throat clearing. But, these medications do not cause tics; they just make them more apparent. ADHD medications can also cause occasional changes in voice and headaches, stomach upset, and sometimes increase or decrease blood pressure or heart rate.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs act differently than the stimulants, boosting the levels of norepinephrine. It is another brain chemical that helps with concentration and impulse control. They can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. They are less harmful than stimulants but don't work as well to treat ADHD symptoms. Your doctor may suggest that you try one of these medications in the event that you suffer from bipolar disorder or depression along with ADHD. non stimulant adhd medication may also suggest psychosocial treatment to manage the symptoms of ADHD and improve your overall quality of life.