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Medications For ADHD
Stimulants are medications that increase levels of chemicals in the brain to help control symptoms. The majority of doctors recommend stimulants as the first option for treatment.
The treatment for ADHD typically includes counseling, medication and lifestyle changes.
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed guanfacine (Strattera), viloxazine, or atomoxetine. They are in a different class of medication from stimulants and have less risk of abuse and addiction.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which can help people suffering from ADHD manage their impulsive behavior and stay focused. They also increase memory and alertness. These medications are often prescribed by doctors to adolescents, children and adults suffering from ADHD. They do not solve the problem. Medications must be taken regularly for them to work properly. They are not a substitute for therapy, training in skills and healthy lifestyle changes.
The majority of stimulants used to treat ADHD are in the methylphenidate category, which includes Ritalin, Concerta and Focalin. Adderall and Vyvanse are amphetamines with a stronger effect than methylphenidates. There are long-acting versions available of these medications, such as Daytrana which is a skin patch that sticks to children's skin for between 10 and 12 hours, and Adzenys XR -ODT which dissolves in the mouth without swallowing and can result in effects lasting up to 16 hours.
Both kinds of medicines can trigger side effects like headaches, nervousness, or trouble sleeping. They may also affect the growth and development of a child, so doctors monitor their use carefully. Doctors will often give patients a period of time to experiment with different medications to determine which is appropriate for them. They might ask teachers, parents and the patient to fill out behavioral rating scales, monitor the patient's progress towards specific goals and observe any adverse reactions.
Non-stimulants might take longer to work and they may not relieve all symptoms. However, they can enhance focus and impulsivity, attention and focus. They are not controlled substances, which means they are less likely to be misused or turn addictive. Doctors often prescribe them to teens and children who suffer from ADHD in combination with depression or anxiety and can reduce the severity of those disorders.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) belong to a class of antidepressants called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors also known as SNRIs. They are FDA-approved for treating ADHD however, they were initially prescribed "off-label" for the disorder since they were approved to lower high blood pressure. Viloxazine and Atomoxetine, as opposed to stimulants that raise dopamine levels, increase norepinephrine. This is a brain chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells.
In certain instances, doctors will prescribe other SNRIs to treat ADHD like mirtazapine or bupropion (Wellbutrin). how does medication for adhd work are also sometimes given to children with ADHD who also have a disorder that causes tics, like Tourette syndrome.
Many people with ADHD benefit from a mix of medication, therapy and other treatments. Some patients can quit taking their medication, however, others will continue to be on it for the duration of their lives. The symptoms usually come back when the medication has worn off and some individuals prefer taking lower doses. The use of medications can also aggravate certain conditions, such as heart problems or depression which is why they must be closely monitored by medical experts. The use of a new drug may make some people feel irritable or anxious initially, but the feeling typically disappears after a few weeks. The medication may also cause problems with certain foods, drinks and vitamins.
