ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One
Finding the right ADHD medication requires lots of trial and error. There are many factors that affect the effectiveness of the medication, including individual metabolism, side effects and how the drug interacts with other medications and supplements.
The stimulants may take some time to kick in however they can help improve attention, focus and impulsivity. They also increase brain chemicals such as dopamine and adrenaline.
Stimulants
Stimulants are also referred to as uppers. They enhance body functions and can make you feel more alert. Stimulants include caffeine (a substance that is frequently used to keep you awake and alert), amphetamines and dextroamphetamines (Adderall and Vyvanse) Lisdexafetamine, and prescription drugs such as methylphenidate, Concerta, Adderall and Vyvanse. They can also be illicit substances such as crystal meth, cocaine, and bath salts (synthetic cathinones) which are frequently abused by children due to their stimulant effects. When taken legally by a doctor on a prescription the drug has been proven to decrease ADHD symptoms and improve the functioning of people with the disorder.
When used correctly, non prescription adhd medication uk are generally safe. However, they can cause adverse reactions such as headaches, insomnia, nervousness and stomach upsets, agitation or shakiness, rapid pulse, confusion and tremors. There is also a high risk of abuse and addiction. If taken in higher-than-prescribed doses or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to overdose and death.
Since more than 30 year, methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine and other prescription stimulants have been available as liquids, pills chewable tablets, chewable tablets, and skin patches. The medications, known by their generic names and brand names like Adderall, Ritalin, and Metadate are effective in increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels within the brain and can aid in improving focus, behavior, and self-control. These drugs are available in immediate-release and extended-release versions.
Viloxazine as well as atomoxetine both under the brand name Qelbree, are stimulant medications which can be purchased over-the counter. These are both part of a group known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and inhibit the action of norepinephrine in the brain. They are not able to treat symptoms of ADHD however they can be beneficial in conjunction with other treatments like nonstimulant medications and behavioral therapy.
Nonstimulant medicine
There are many non-stimulant drugs that have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. They are usually easier to take than stimulant medicines and have less side effects. They may not be as fast as stimulants and may take a few weeks to begin working. They also have a lower chance of addiction than stimulant medications, and some doctors recommend them to adults as a first option for treatment.
Clonidine (brand names Zanex and Tenex) are alpha-2 adrenergic agonists that are not stimulants. These are usually employed "off-label" for ADHD which means they are not specifically approved by the FDA to treat this condition. However, they can be helpful in decreasing ADHD symptoms through acting as a sedative, and slowing down the activity of certain neurons in the brain.
Behavioral education and other forms of therapy are also important components of treatment for ADHD. Adults and children with ADHD can benefit from a behavioral program to develop new strategies for managing their symptoms, improve social skills, and develop strategies for managing anger and conflict. These techniques are most effective for younger children or those who have milder symptoms. However, they're not always successful in older adults and children with more severe ADHD symptoms.