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ADHD Treatment Medication - Stimulants

Stimulants boost brain chemical levels that aid in concentration, focus and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them in immediate-release and extended-release forms. Stimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine/dexroamphetamine compounds (Adderall, Vyvanse).





They are the most commonly used medication prescribed to adults suffering from ADHD. They are often paired with antidepressants prescribed by doctors to improve their effectiveness.

Stimulants

The most frequently prescribed medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine, which help people focus and control their impulses. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication used to treat ADHD for adults and children. It comes in liquid and tablet form and can be taken up to 2-3 times per daily. Side effects of methylphenidate in children and teens can include stomachaches, headaches, or changes to appetite. These medicines can also increase heart rate and blood pressure and should not be used by people with known heart issues.

Stimulant medicines can have a long-lasting effect. They are typically prescribed as a formula that has a long-acting effect which means that the medication is released slowly into the body for between 8 and 12 hours. Long-acting medicines are especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD who frequently miss school, work or family obligations due to their inability to stay on task. Doctors generally consider them safe to take in appropriate dosages over a long period of duration. Research shows that they have no negative effects on IQ and social interactions.

Long-term use of stimulants can trigger personality changes in some individuals that include becoming more introverted and withdrawn or less sociable and spontaneous. It can also cause mood swings that can lead to depression, which is the reason health professionals generally only recommend using them for brief periods of time. In certain instances, people who are taking stimulants could become addicted to the drug.

A newer category of drugs for treating ADHD are nonstimulant medicines. They don't directly affect dopamine or norepinephrine, but instead affect the brain with a chemical known as noradrenaline, which transmits messages between brain cells. Atomoxetine (trade name Strattera) and Guanfacine (trade name Zyprexa) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved for treatment of ADHD.

Nonstimulant medicines take longer to begin working however once they do, they enhance the ability of people to concentrate and manage their emotions. They can also reduce symptoms of impulsivity and reduce anxiety. They are prescribed by healthcare providers alone or in combination.

Stimulants and nonstimulant medications don't perform the same way for everyone, so it may take a few times to find a dosage and timetable that works best. Doctors will closely monitor a person's response to the medication and may make adjustments if needed.

The use of medication is only one aspect of an ADHD treatment plan, and it's important for someone suffering from ADHD to receive psychosocial therapy, too. Therapists can teach you techniques to manage symptoms and improve your relationships, including time management and organizational strategies. adhd and medication can help someone identify stress and develop strategies to cope. Certain diets have also been proven to be effective for people suffering from ADHD. However cutting out certain foods without consulting a physician is not advised.