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Types of ADHD Medication

The most common drugs prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. They increase levels of the neurotransmitter hormones norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. This improves concentration and helps control impulsive behavior.

You can purchase tablets or as a patch. It is recommended to select long-acting stimulant products, which deliver medication throughout the entire day.

Stimulants

Stimulants are typically prescribed for ADHD. They work quickly and reduce ADHD symptoms for 70 to 80% of the children who take them. They are effective by increasing brain chemical dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces tiredness. Methylphenidate (also called methylphenidate, Ritalin, and Focalin) is a popular stimulant used for ADHD. It comes in chewable tablets and liquid forms, and it can be taken up to three times per day. Amphetamines are often prescribed for ADHD. They are a little more powerful than methylphenidates. These drugs can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, so people with preexisting medical conditions should consult their doctor.





Stimulant medicines can lead to addiction if misused, such as taking more than the recommended dose or mixing them with alcohol or other drugs. Patients who use medications as prescribed are not at risk of an increased risk of becoming addicted. There is evidence to suggest that ADHD medication may even help people who are at risk of addiction to stay away from addiction.

The FDA has approved a range of stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They are usually available in generic form, meaning that the chemical formulation is similar to the brand name medication. Your doctor will prescribe the medication that is best for you or your child.

Your doctor will start with a low dose and examine how your child or you react before altering the dosage. Your doctor will then determine if it is necessary to add a second medicine or switch to a different medication.

The effects of stimulants can be adverse including dry mouth, decreased appetite, and changes in sleep or mood. Some children and teenagers who use stimulants develop tics. These are sudden movements or noises such as eye blinking or throat clearing. adhd and anxiety medication have found that stimulants can cause a slight decrease in height for some teens and children.

Non-stimulant medicines are less effective than stimulants, yet they can increase impulsivity and attention. It can take up to four weeks before the medication begins working. Non-stimulant medications can help reduce depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions in some people. Most often, they are prescribed in conjunction with a stimulant medication to treat ADHD.

Antidepressants are also effective in treating ADHD. They affect the levels of serotonin in the brain. Some, such as selective serotonin retake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been proven to improve focus and impulsivity for people suffering from ADHD.

FDA-approved medications that are not stimulants are rare and hard to come by. Your doctor might recommend antidepressants in addition to a stimulant for ADHD, or in place of stimulants if you have undesirable side effects. Some adults with ADHD may also benefit from antidepressants because they enhance memory and decrease impulsivity and aggression. Some antidepressants work on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, and are classified as norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are typically prescribed in conjunction with stimulants, and could be more effective than stimulants alone.