Types of ADHD Medication
Stimulants are among the most popular type of medication for ADHD. They reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms by boosting brain chemical levels. They also help reduce tics and help people finish tasks.
They are available in short- or long-acting versions. Doctors can prescribe them either as a pair or together.
Adderall
Adderall (the combination of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) is stimulant drug that helps improve the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD). It helps control impulse-driven behaviors such as interrupting others, while also increasing concentration and reducing restlessness. It also improves listening and following instructions. It can be used by children as young as three years old, teenagers or adults. It is also used for Narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by sudden episodes of sleepiness in the daytime.
Adderall works by altering some of the chemical substances that are naturally found in your brain. It increases the amount of dopamine and norrepinephrine, which are natural neurotransmitters. This improves brain function in areas afflicted by ADHD such as motivation and focus, as well memory. It also reduces anxiety and improves alertness in people suffering from narcolepsy.
Stimulants can increase heart rate which could be risky for people with particular medical issues or those who take other medications. People with high blood pressure or a history of seizures, or heart disease should stay clear of taking stimulants. Additionally, those with kidney or liver disease, or glaucoma need to consult their doctor before taking them. They can also be abused and have harmful side effects, such as addiction or overdose.
Research has shown that long-term use of women, those with heart disease, and those younger than 18 could increase their chances of developing heart problems. The benefits of Adderall far outweigh any risk.
Adderall begins to work when you notice a change in how well you pay attention and follow directions. You can tell if your ability to organize improves. Avoid caffeine and screen time in the hours prior to bedtime if you have trouble falling asleep.
Stimulants such as Adderall will stay in your system for a period of two to four days. It is a good idea to provide this information in the event that you have to undergo an assessment for drugs at school or at work.
Evekeo
FDA approved Evekeo in 2014. It works by increasing the levels of two important neurotransmitters, dopamine & norepinephrine in the brain. These chemicals are involved in the pleasure and reward pathways and also in concentration and attention. Evekeo can help improve ADHD symptoms, but there are also side consequences.
Stimulants like Evekeo can increase heartbeat and blood pressure. These changes could be dangerous and may require treatment or hospitalization. You should tell your doctor that you have any heart-related issues or any family history of them. Tell medication for adhd and anxiety if you suffer from any other health issues or take supplements or vitamins. adhd and anxiety medication can interact with certain medications. Always inform your doctor if you're taking prescription or non-prescription medications.
The most frequent side consequence of this medication is headache. It is also possible to suffer from dry mouth, nausea, drowsiness, or weight loss. These side effects typically go away within a few days or a few weeks, but you should call your doctor in the event that they persist or become more severe. Evekeo may also cause a rare condition referred to as peripheral vasculopathy, also known as Raynaud's phenomenon. This can cause tissue breakdown or digital ulceration. This condition is more prevalent in teenagers and children and is often aggravated by long-term stimulant use.
Some people can develop a psychological dependence this medication which is a serious problem that requires treatment. The withdrawal symptoms can occur when the medication is abruptly stopped or dosages are reduced. These withdrawal symptoms could include depressed mood, agitation and fatigue, as well as irritability and vivid or unpleasant dreams. Some people also develop tolerance to this medication, meaning that greater doses are required to achieve the same result. This could result in dependence and other harmful side effects. It is also possible to overdose on this medication and develop a life-threatening condition called rhabdomyolysis. This condition is a severe and possibly fatal consequence of amphetamines like Evekeo.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication prescribed by healthcare providers to treat ADHD is a kind of medication that affects chemicals in the brain and nerves. It affects the chemicals in the nerves and brain that triggers hyperactivity and impulse-control. It's FDA-approved to treat adults and children 6 years of age and older. Healthcare providers use it to improve their patients' ability to remain focused and reduce impulsivity, which makes them more productive in the classroom or at work. It also helps in reducing mood swings and making it easier to fall asleep.
The drug is available in tablets and capsules with extended-release and immediate-release. The immediate-release category includes pills (Ritalin) as well as a liquid (Methylin) or chewable tablets (Melissa). The extended-release category is offered in tablets (Concerta), capsule (Methylin XR) as well as tablet (Methadose and Azstarys). To reap the maximum benefits it is important to consistently take the medication. Some people experience a short period of fatigue and increased activity, or a bad mood when the effects of methylphenidate begin to wear off. This is referred to as the rebound effect.
Methylphenidate, like other stimulants can trigger headaches, nausea loss of appetite, nausea and trouble sleeping. It also increases blood pressure and heart rate. It is a good idea to take it with food to prevent these adverse effects. In certain instances, those suffering from bipolar disorders may suffer from a mania attack while taking methylphenidate. This is rare however it's a good idea to consult your doctor regarding your family's history of mental health issues.
There aren't many non-stimulant medications specifically approved for treating ADHD. However, some healthcare providers might prescribe antidepressants for treating the condition. These medications raise levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Most of them belong to two drug classes called norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 adrenergic agonists.
These medications don't have the same potential for abuse as stimulants do. They can cause serious problems if taken in excess or incorrectly. Non-stimulant medicines might take longer to begin working than stimulants, and they may take up to 24 hours to reach the maximum level of effectiveness. They can also decrease the effectiveness of other prescription ADHD medication.
Non-stimulants
For many children and adults, stimulant medications are the first choice to treat ADHD. They may not work for everyone, or they can cause undesirable side effects. In those instances, nonstimulant drugs can be beneficial. They can improve concentration and reduce impulsivity in adults and children with ADHD. They are available as pills, liquids, or patches. They can also be combined with stimulants or used on their own. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and clonidine work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters inside the brain.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD and are also the most studied. They are the most effective in helping children and adults with ADHD manage impulsivity and focus. They are either short-acting stimulants, or long-acting stimulants. They usually start working in 30 to 45 minutes and last for up to six hours. Long-acting stimulants are typically prescribed first, and doctors often add a short-acting stimulant for those who have difficulty staying focused throughout the day.
There are many kinds of stimulant drugs, including amphetamines. These drugs are controlled and are only available through the prescription of a doctor. The stimulants can also be abused which is the reason they are classified as controlled substances. Nonstimulants do not have the same risks of abuse and are less likely to cause negative adverse effects, like addiction.
Nonstimulant drugs can be taken either transdermally or orally. They generally absorb faster than stimulants and do not require a lengthy waiting time before they start working. They can aid in reducing the impulsivity of children and adults with ADHD and are often used with other treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy.
There are some who experience adverse reactions from these drugs however, they tend to be mild and go away on their own as the body adjusts to them. If they do not go away discuss with your doctor about them. They will tell you if the reactions are normal and provide suggestions on how to lessen the severity of them.