ADHD Medication
Medication is often part of an ADHD therapy plan. The two most popular stimulant medications are dextroamphetamine and the methylphenidate. Each of them has a variety of brand names and each has a distinct chemical composition.
Stimulants boost brain chemicals that aid in transmitting messages between neurons. These are usually the first drugs that healthcare professionals test for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Most doctors prescribe stimulants as their first treatment for ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which help improve focus, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and boost peace. adhd and anxiety medication prescribe amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or atomoxetine, which is in the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors to treat ADHD. Heart-related heart problems that are serious are not common however, doctors can monitor people with heart problems closely while taking stimulants.
ADHD is usually treated efficiently with stimulant medication, especially for children and adolescents. These medications increase brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, helping them concentrate, focus and learn. They also boost energy levels and promote the state of being awake. Studies have proven that if used as directed the drugs can dramatically enhance school performance. Many experts are worried that students who are taking stimulants for a long time may develop a tolerance, and may require higher doses. They can also have negative side effects, such as changes in appetite, sleep disorders depression, anxiety, or sleep problems.
Doctors who recommend ADHD medication usually start with a low dose and then gradually increase the amount over a few weeks. You and your parents will be asked to monitor the effects of side effects and benefits of the medication. If the medication doesn't appear to be working or has unwanted side effects that you're not able to deal with, your doctor might consider a different medication.
The majority of children and adults who take stimulant medications suffer some side effects. Most of them are minor, and they go away within several weeks or days as the body becomes familiar with the drug. The most commonly reported side effects are weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and an increased heart rate.
Some studies have shown people who are taking stimulant drugs for ADHD are more likely to develop tics. These are repeated sounds or movements such as eye blinking or throat clearing. These medications do not cause tics, but they do make them more visible. ADHD medications may also cause a change in mood or voice, headaches, stomach upset and occasionally an increase or decrease in heartbeat or blood pressure.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These medications work differently than stimulants. They increase the levels of norepinephrine, a brain chemical that helps control the flow of thoughts and attention. They can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. They have less negative effects than stimulants but they're not as effective in treating ADHD symptoms. Your doctor may suggest that you try one of these medications if you have depression or bipolar disorder along with ADHD. They might also suggest psychosocial therapy to help you manage the symptoms of ADHD and improve your overall quality of life.