ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can help alleviate a variety of symptoms, but they do not solve the problem. Typically, your physician will prescribe medication in conjunction with education, counseling, and behavior therapy.
Stimulant drugs are the most commonly prescribed drugs for ADHD. They function by increasing or the brain's chemical balance that controls behavior and attention. They comprise methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin) and amphetamines like Dexedrine.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is one of the most 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, as well as extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer form that contains only the right-handed molecule and not left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR Generic name is dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Some people may experience side-effects from methylphenidate such as headaches and loss of appetite. These side effects are typically mild, and they disappear once the patient has become accustomed to the medication. Talk to your doctor if these side effects persist. They could alter your dosage, or prescribe an entirely new medication.
In some instances methylphenidate can cause mood changes, such as feeling depressed or aggressive. This isn't common, but it can be serious if you have an existing mental illness, like bipolar disorder. In rare cases methylphenidate may also trigger a manic episode in people who suffer from bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can raise your heart rate and blood pressure and is not recommended for anyone with heart problems. The drug should be avoided by anyone with a history of heart failure or structural heart disease, especially in 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. You should always tell your doctor if there is an issue with your heart before taking this medication.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is an FDA-approved medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It is also an option for treating binge-eating disorder (BED). It is a central nervous system stimulant that works by increasing activity in certain parts of the brain. It is available through prescription only.
The drug can cause serious side effects if taken in combination with other medications, including anticholinergics and sedatives. This combination can increase the risk of developing heart problems and seizures. It can also be dangerous when you drive or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Vyvanse and avoid driving until you are aware of the effects it has on you. Make use of a medication return program, or mix your medication with a nontoxic substance like cat litter or dirt prior to throwing it in the household trash.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine show that it's as effective as the long-acting methylphenidate substances and the non-stimulant atomoxetine. In addition, a recent European study found that lisdexamfetamine is more effective than methylphenidate.
The studies of lisdexamfetamine show that the drug may improve performance in both work and school environments. A small open-label study conducted by Brown et. al37 revealed significant improvement in a workplace. Wigal and colleagues38 conducted a study that showed significant improvements in performance when compared to a permanent Product Measure of Performance.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is distinct from stimulants like Ritalin, Adderall (dextroamphetamine) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). It is not a centrally nervous system stimulant but a noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is a chemical that carries messages from one nerve cell to another brain cell. Noradrenaline is recycled by nerve cells after sending messages. Atomoxetine blocks this recycling process and increases the levels of active noradrenaline within the brain. This improves attention and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The capsules are available in oral capsules. It is generally prescribed once or twice a day, however it can be given more often in the event of need. It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions particularly when you are first starting treatment. You should take the medicine with food and drink a full glass of water. Do not mix it with hot beverages or other medicines, unless otherwise instructed.
Although studies have shown that atomoxetine is more effective than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate in treating ADHD symptoms however, it is not as efficient. It's also less effective than nonstimulant medications, including tricyclic antidepressants, as well as clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and fainting. To avoid this, you should not get up too quickly from a lying position. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol when taking this medication. In addition, discuss with your doctor the most suitable diet for you or your child.
Adderall
Adderall is a drug used to increase alertness and concentration. It works by increasing the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine in the brain. Dopamine assists in enhancing positive behavior, while norepinephrine regulates heartbeat, blood vessels and blood pressure.
If taken in the recommended dosages prescribed by a doctor, Adderall doesn't cause a feeling of being high. It can, however, cause side effects, such as dry mouth and insomnia. If your child or teenager is experiencing these symptoms, talk to their physician. The doctor may be able to switch medications or change the dosage.
Stimulant medication is a common treatment for ADHD however it can cause issues in some kids. These problems can range in severity from a lack of school performance to social problems. Stimulants are also abused by teenagers to get an "buzz." They can even cause addiction. Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be prevented.
A few children with ADHD are unable to sleep at night. The medication may help them sleep. It is important to restrict the use of screens and caffeine prior to the time of bed. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall includes amphetamine which is a controlled substance. It can result in false positives on tests for drugs. Therefore, it's crucial to inform the authorities if you work or play 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 medications to increase the brain's neurotransmitters, decreasing impulsivity and hyperactivity, improving listening abilities, and altering how people feel. It is available as a tablets that are short-acting and extended-release capsules. It is classified as a Schedule II drug, meaning it has the potential to create addiction. It may also raise blood pressure and heartbeat. Contact your doctor immediately if this happens.
Many children with ADHD have side effects from stimulant medications. They may experience an upset stomach, experience difficulty sleeping, or appear angry or angry. These side effects can be minimized or eliminated by changing the dosage, formulation or the type of medication is changed.
The medication does not cure ADHD however they can aid a child to control their emotions and stay focused. They can also help them do better at school. However, ADHD symptoms will return when the medication is stopped. Therefore, they must be taken as prescribed by a physician.
Doctors should be aware of blood pressure and heart rhythm. They can also trigger sleep problems and changes in appetite. The best way to manage ADHD is by combining medication, therapy and skills training. Children who receive treatment for ADHD tend to 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 assistance and to take longer to complete high school. They are more likely to leave college.
Ritalin
Ritalin, the first medication used to treat ADHD in children, was created with kindergarteners and 1st graders in mind. They only required it for three or four hour periods every day. As children grow older their need to focus increases, so they need longer-lasting medicine. There are now source web page that function as stimulants, but last for up to 12 hours. These are referred to as "methylphenidates," and they increase the amount of two chemicals in the brain that influence concentration: dopamine and norepinephrine. The medications come in various forms, including pills that can be chewed, swallowed or dissolved, liquids that are sucked into the mouth and a patch that is affixed to the skin, similar to an adhesive bandage.
The medication isn't able to cure ADHD but it can help people stay focus and less tense in school or at work. It also makes it easier to listen and follow directions. But it can cause adverse effects, such as difficulties sleeping, problems with appetite and abdominal pain. It can also worsen symptoms of anxiety, agitation or psychosis. It is important to inform an expert right away when you experience any of these symptoms.
The DEA classifies stimulant drugs as Schedule II drugs because they are abused. They are only available with a prescription and should be kept away from children and adults who might abuse them. Atomoxetine and guanfacine, however, are not Schedule II drugs and have fewer side effects than stimulants.