ADHD Medication List
The most common ADHD medication is stimulant medications such as Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They increase the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine to improve focus, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
These medicines can cause adverse reactions. Your health care team will help find the right dosage and medication that works best for you or your child.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most common type medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD are stimulants. They boost the levels certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which aid people pay attention and focus their thoughts, and stay motivated. In the majority of cases, 80% of children with ADHD see improvement in their symptoms once the doctor finds the right stimulant dosage and dosage. Stimulants may be taken through mouth, patch or via injection. Certain people with ADHD take nonstimulant medication to alleviate their symptoms. It takes time to find out the right medication, dosage, and schedule for each person suffering from ADHD.
The first stimulant drug people with ADHD uses may not be effective or cause unpleasant adverse effects. If a person isn't seeing improvements after several weeks, or if their symptoms recur, the doctor might try a different medication.
Only prescriptions from a physician or other qualified doctor are accepted. They are not sold over-the counter (OTC). You should not take vitamins or supplements claiming to treat ADHD in the event that they interfere with the prescription you're taking.
There are several types of stimulant medication, including amphetamines such as Adderall and Ritalin dextroamphetamines, such as Dexedrine and methylphenidates like Ritalin. These drugs are mostly available as pills, however some also come in liquids, patches or chewable tablets. The doctor may recommend extended-release or prolonged-acting medicines to limit the risk of abuse. These drugs build up slowly in the bloodstream and fade slowly. This can reduce the effects of "the rebound effect," which is when people's mood and energy decreases when their medication wears off.
The drugs usually begin to work within 30-60 minutes. The effects last for 3-4 hours. Most people who use these medications take them two to three times daily.
Short-acting stimulants can cause a "crash" that can cause people to feel irritable or tired and hungry. Some people with ADHD experience tics. These are repeated sounds or movements like clearing the throat or blinking of the eyes. adhd medication uk are not caused by the medication, but may get worse if the medication is not stopped.
The risk of addiction or abuse is low with any stimulant. However, it is unlikely to occur in the lower doses prescribed to treat ADHD. The risk is higher for young adults and teens, and may be greater for those who have a history of substance abuse or mental illness.
Most stimulants can cause negative side effects, such as headaches, stomach upset, and a rise in heart rate. These effects typically disappear after a few weeks of taking the medication, but if they don't, talk to your doctor.
People suffering from ADHD must inform their doctor if they have any history of anxiety or depression, are pregnant or breastfeeding or have a heart disease or high blood pressure. They should also inform their doctor if they are taking any other medications or caffeine drinks, as they can interfere with the medication's effectiveness. It is also recommended to talk with their doctor about any family history of alcoholism or any other mental health issues.