ADHD Medication List
Stimulant medications, such as Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin and Concerta are among the most commonly used ADHD medications. They increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine to improve focus, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
These medications can cause adverse effects. Your healthcare team will help you determine the best dose and medicine for you or your child.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most commonly used type of 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 think clearly. They also help people remain motivated. In the majority of cases, around 80% of children suffering from ADHD notice improvement in their symptoms after the doctor has determined the correct stimulant dosage and dosage. The stimulants can be administered through mouth, patch or injection. Certain people with ADHD take nonstimulant medication to alleviate their symptoms. It takes time to find the right dosage, medication and schedule for each individual with ADHD.
The first stimulant medication people suffering from ADHD is likely to not work or cause unpleasant side effects. If the patient doesn't notice improvement after a few weeks, or if their symptoms return, the doctor might try another medication.
Medications are only available on prescription from your physician or other qualified provider. They are not sold over-the or over-the-counter (OTC). It is not recommended to take supplements or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD, as they might interfere with the prescription you're taking.
There are a variety of stimulant medication, including amphetamines such as Adderall and Ritalin dextroamphetamines, such as Dexedrine, and methylphenidates such as Ritalin. The majority of these drugs are available in pill form, however some are available in liquid, patch or chewable tablets. To reduce the risk of misuse, a physician may recommend medications with a long-acting release or extended-release. The medications are slowly absorbed in the bloodstream, and then disappear slowly. This can help reduce the symptoms of what is called "the rebound effect," when a person's mood and energy drop after the medication wears off.
The medicines usually begin to work within 30-60 minutes and their effects last for 3-4 hours. Most people who use these medications take them two to three times per day.
Some people who use stimulants with a short-acting mechanism experience what's known as a "crash" when the drug wears off and makes them feel exhausted, irritable and hungry. Some people with ADHD suffer from tics. These are repetitive movements or sounds, such as throat clearing or blinking of the eyes. These aren't caused due to the medication, but they may become more severe if it's stopped.
There is a small chance of addiction and abuse with any stimulant, but this is unlikely in the doses that are low to treat ADHD. The risk is greater for adolescents and young adults and may be more for those who have an addiction history or mental illness.
The majority of stimulants cause side effects such as headaches, stomach upset, and a rise in heart rate. see this disappear after several weeks of taking the medication, however should they not, talk to your doctor.
People with ADHD must inform their doctor if they have an history of anxiety or depression or are breastfeeding or pregnant or have a heart condition or high blood pressure. They should also tell their doctor if they are taking any other medications or drinks, as they may hinder the effectiveness of the medication. They should also talk to their doctor about any family history of alcoholism or other mental health issues.