ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can relieve many symptoms of the disorder, but they can't cure it. Most often, your doctor will prescribe medication in conjunction with education, counseling and behavior therapy.
Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They function by increasing or balancing brain chemicals that control behavior and attention. They comprise methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin) and amphetamines such as Dexedrine.
Methylphenidate
Among the most widely studied stimulant medications for ADHD, methylphenidate has shown to be secure and effective in children as well as adults. It is available in different forms that include chewable tablets as well as liquids, pills and extended-release capsules. It's also available as a single-isomer version that has the beneficial right-handed molecule but not the toxic left-handed ones found in other formulations (Brand name: Focalin XR, Generic name dexmethylphenidate ER).
Certain people may suffer from side effects of methylphenidate, such as headaches or loss of appetite. These effects are typically minor, and disappear as the patient becomes used to the medication. If the side effects persist consult your physician. They might suggest changing your dosage or prescribe an alternative medication.
In some cases methylphenidate may cause mood changes, for example, feeling depressed or aggressive. This isn't common, but it can be serious if you have a preexisting mental illness such as bipolar disorder. In rare instances methylphenidate may also trigger an episode of manic depression in those with bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which is not a good thing for those with heart issues. It should not be taken by anyone with an existing history of heart failure or structural heart disease particularly children and young adults. It should also not be used by people who suffer from phenylketonuria, a genetic condition that requires a low-protein eating plan. It is important to inform your doctor if you suffer from an issue with your heart before taking this medication.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a FDA-approved drug 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 nervous system stimulant that increases activity in certain parts of the brain. It is only available on prescription.
The drug could cause serious side effects if combined with other medications, including anticholinergics and sedatives. This combination could increase the risk of seizures and heart issues. It can also be dangerous when driving or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Vyvanse and don't drive until you know how it affects you. Use a medication take-back program or mix your medication with a non-toxic substance such as dirt or cat litter before throwing it into the garbage bin in your home.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have shown that it is just as effective as long-acting methylphenidate and the non-stimulant Atomoxetine. A recent European study also found that lisdexamfetamine is more efficient than methylphenidate.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have demonstrated that the drug can enhance functioning in both school and work environments. Brown and co37 conducted a brief open-label trial that showed significant improvements in a simulated work environment. A different study by Wigal and al38 showed improvements in performance on a Permanent Product Measure of Performance test.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is different from stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall(dextroamphetamine), or Vyvanse(lisdexamfetamine). It is not a central nervous system stimulant, but instead a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages from one nerve cell to another brain. Noradrenaline is recycled by nerve cells after sending an information. Atomoxetine blocks this recycling process and increases the levels of active noradrenaline in the brain. This improves attention and reduces impulsive behavior.
The capsules are available in oral form. The medication is typically given once or twice daily however, it can be administered more frequently if required. It is essential to follow the doctor's directions closely, particularly at the beginning of treatment. Take the medicine after meals and drink plenty of water. Do not mix it with hot drinks or other medicines unless directed otherwise.
Despite research that shows that atomoxetine is more effective than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate in treating ADHD symptoms but it isn't as efficient. It is less effective than nonstimulant medications like tricyclic antidepressants and clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. To avoid this, you must not be able to get up too quickly from a lying position. Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking while taking this medication. In addition, you should discuss with your doctor the best diet for you or your child.
Adderall
Adderall is an stimulant for the central nervous system that helps to increase alertness and attention. It works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain: norepinephrine and dopamine. Dopamine helps reinforce positive behaviors while norepinephrine regulates heartbeat, blood vessels and blood pressure.
When taken at the doctor-recommended dosages, Adderall doesn't cause a feeling of being high. However, it can trigger 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 change the dose or switch medications.
Stimulant medications are a popular treatment for ADHD however, it can cause problems in certain kids. These problems can range from poor school performance to social problems. Teens also use stimulants to get high. They can lead to addiction. Most of these problems can be prevented.
A few children with ADHD have trouble sleeping at night. The medication can aid them in sleeping better. It is essential to restrict the use of screens and caffeine prior to bedtime. It's also an excellent idea to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall contains amphetamine, which is a controlled substance. It can cause false positives in drug tests. It's important that you provide this information to your employer or coach if you play sports. Adderall's duration in the body varies from person to person. It is recommended to not take it for two to four days before your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It works similarly to other ADHD medications by increasing the brain's Neurotransmitters. This increases the brain's neurotransmitters and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. It also improves listening and alters how a person is feeling. It is available in both tablets that are short-acting and extended-release capsules. It is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it is able to cause addiction. It also increases blood pressure and heart rate. Tell your doctor immediately in the event of this.
adhd and medication with ADHD have side effects while taking stimulant medication. They might suffer from stomach issues, sleep problems or become aggressive or irritable. These side effects can be controlled or eliminated by changing the dosage of the formula, formulation, or type of medication.
The use of medication does not cure ADHD, but they can help improve the ability of children to concentrate and manage their emotions. They can also help them do better in school. If the drugs are removed, ADHD symptoms may return. Therefore, they must be taken as prescribed by the doctor.
Stimulant medications can increase the heart rate in certain people, so doctors should monitor the blood pressure and heart rate. They can also cause sleep problems and changes in appetite. The best approach to treat ADHD is by combining therapy, medication and training. Children suffering from ADHD have lower full-scale IQs when compared to children without. They are more likely than other children to require special education or remedial academic services and to be slower to complete high school. They are also more likely to quit college.
Ritalin
When Ritalin was first developed to treat ADHD it was created with kindergarteners and first-graders in mind, as they only required the medication for three or four hours a day. But as kids get older their need to concentrate is increasing, and they require longer-lasting medicine. There are now medicines that act as stimulants and last for as long as 12 hours. These medications are called "methylphenidates" and they increase two chemicals that affect the brain's concentration: dopamine, and norepinephrine. The medicines come in different forms, including pills that can be swallowed, chewed or dissolved liquids that are sucked into the mouth and patches that sticks to the skin, similar to the band-aid.
The medication can't cure ADHD, but it can aid people in staying focus and less tense at work or in school. It helps people follow directions and listen. It can also trigger side effects like abdominal pain, insomnia and eating disorders. It can also aggravate symptoms like anxiety or agitation. Psychosis can also be a trigger. It is important to inform a doctor right away when you experience any of these symptoms.
These medications are prone to be misused, which is why they are considered Schedule II drugs by the DEA. Only available with a prescription from a physician and should be kept away from youngsters and adults who could use them. Atomoxetine, Guanfacine, and other Schedule II drugs have fewer negative effects than stimulants.