ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can relieve many symptoms of the disorder, but they can't cure it. Typically, your physician will prescribe medication in conjunction with counseling, education, and behavior therapy.
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulant drugs. They work by boosting or stabilizing brain chemicals that regulate behavior and attention. These include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta (and amphetamines such as Dexedrine).
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is one of the most extensively studied stimulant medications used to treat ADHD. It has been proven to be safe and effective for children and adults. It is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, liquids, chewable tablets, and extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer formulation that only contains right-handed molecules and not the left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR; Generic name dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Some people may experience side effects from methylphenidate, like headaches or loss of appetite. These side effects are typically minor, and disappear once the patient has become used to the medication. Speak to your doctor if these side effects continue. They may change your dosage, or prescribe an entirely new medication.
In some instances methylphenidate can trigger mood changes, such as feeling aggressive or depressed. This isn't common but it could be serious for people with a mental illness such as bipolar disorder. In rare cases methylphenidate could trigger a manic episode among people with bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can increase your heart rate and blood pressure and is not recommended for people with heart problems. Anyone with a history or structural heart disease should stay away from the medication, especially children and young adults. It should not be taken by those who suffer from phenylketonuria, a genetic condition which requires a low protein diet plan. Always inform adhd and medication if you suffer from an issue with your heart before taking this medication.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a medication that has been approved by the FDA that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. It also serves as a successful treatment for binge eating disorder (BED). It is a central nerve system stimulant that is effective by increasing the activity in certain areas of the brain. It is available by prescription only.
The drug may cause serious adverse side effects when taken in combination with other medications, including sedatives or anticholinergics. This combination could increase your risk of having heart problems and seizures. It could also be risky if you are driving or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Vyvanse, and be careful not to drive until you are aware of how the drug affects you. If you need to dispose of your medication, use an online program for taking back your medicine or mix it with a nontoxic substance such as cat litter or dirt, and dispose of it in household trash.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine show that it is as efficacious as the methylphenidate compounds with long-acting properties and the non-stimulant atomoxetine. In addition, a recent European study showed that lisdexamfetamine could be more efficacious than methylphenidate.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine have shown that the drug may improve functioning in school and work environments. A small study with an open-label label by Brown et al37 demonstrated significant improvement in a simulation workplace environment. Wigal and colleagues38 conducted a study that revealed significant improvements in performance when tested on a Permanent Product Measure of Performance.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is different from stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall (dextroamphetamine), and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). It is not a central nervous system stimulant, but instead a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is an organic chemical that transmits messages from one nerve cell to another in the brain. After sending a message, noradrenaline gets reabsorbed by nerve endings as part of a recycling process. Atomoxetine blocks this recycling and boosts the amount of active noradrenaline in the brain. This can improve attention and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The capsules are available in oral form. The medication is usually prescribed twice a day or once a day however, it can be administered more frequently if required. It is important to follow the doctor's prescription carefully, especially at the beginning of treatment. It is recommended to take the medication with food and drink a full glass of water. Do not mix with hot drinks or other medicines unless you are told otherwise.
Studies have shown that atomoxetine can improve ADHD symptoms in adolescents and children, but it is less effective than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate. It is less effective than nonstimulant drugs, such as tricyclic antidepressants or clonidine. Atomoxetine may cause dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness. Avoid this by not getting up too quickly after lying down. Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking when taking this medication. You should also talk to your doctor about the most suitable diet that you or your child should follow.
Adderall
Adderall is a drug used to increase alertness and concentration. It works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters that are found in the brain: dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine enhances positive behavior, while norepinephrine regulates the heart rate, blood pressure, and blood vessels.
Adderall does not cause high when taken at the dose recommended by your doctor. Nonetheless, it can cause side effects such as dry mouth and insomnia. If your child or teenager experiences these symptoms, talk with their doctor. The doctor might be able to modify the dose or switch medications.
The use of stimulant medications is a typical treatment for ADHD, but it can cause issues in certain kids. These issues can range from poor school performance to social issues. The use of stimulants is also used by teenagers to get an "buzz." They may even cause addiction. Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be prevented.
Some children with ADHD are unable to sleep at night. The medication can aid them in sleeping better. But, it's important to limit the consumption of caffeine and screen time prior to bedtime. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall contains amphétamine, which is a controlled substance. It could cause false positives on drug tests. Therefore, it's important to inform the authorities when you are working or playing sports. The duration of Adderall's effects in the body varies from person to person. It is recommended to avoid taking it for two to four days before your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine is an extremely powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It works with other ADHD drugs to boost the brain's neurotransmitters, decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, enhancing listening skills, and transforming the way a person feels. It is available as a extended-release and short-acting tablets. It is a Schedule II drug, meaning it could cause addiction. It can also raise the heart rate and blood pressure. Inform your doctor right away if this happens.
Many children with ADHD suffer side effects from stimulant medications. They may experience an upset stomach, have difficulty sleeping, or appear aggressive or upset. These side effects can either be eliminated or reduced if the dosage, formula or the type of medication is changed.
The use of medication does not cure ADHD but they can aid in improving a child's ability to concentrate and manage their emotions. They can also improve their academic performance. However, ADHD symptoms will return when the medication is stopped. It is essential to take them exactly as directed by your doctor.
Doctors should be aware of blood pressure and heart rhythm. They can also trigger sleep issues and changes in appetite. The best way to manage ADHD is by combining therapy, medication and training. Children who receive treatment with ADHD often have lower IQs on the full scale than those who do not. They are more likely than others to require special education or remedial academic services, and to be slower to complete high school. They are also more likely to drop out of college.
Ritalin
Ritalin the first drug used to treat ADHD in children, was designed with children in kindergarten and 1st grade in mind. They only needed it for three or four hour periods each day. As children age get older, they are less able to concentrate and require a longer-lasting drug. There are medications available that act as stimulants and last for as long as 12 hours. These medications are called "methylphenidates" and they boost two chemicals that influence the brain's concentration which are norepinephrine and dopamine. The drugs come in a variety of forms, including pills that can be swallowed, chewed or dissolved and liquids that are sucked into the mouth and a patch that adheres to the skin like an adhesive bandage.
The medication does not cure ADHD however it can aid in staying focus and less tense at school or work. It can also make it easier to listen and follow directions. However, it could cause adverse effects, such as difficulties sleeping, problems with appetite and abdominal pain. It can also worsen symptoms like anxiety, agitation, or psychosis. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
The DEA classifies stimulant medications as Schedule II drugs because they are susceptible to abuse. They are only available with a prescription, and should be kept away from children and adults who may misuse them. Atomoxetine and guanfacine however, aren't Schedule II drugs and have fewer side effects than stimulants.