Blog entry by Vivian Call
Types of ADHD Medication
There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. It can take some time to discover the best one for you or your child.
The stimulant drugs, like methylphenidate, or Ritalin can help alleviate symptoms by increasing the levels of a certain chemical in the brain. Some people who take these medications experience a sharp reduction in energy levels and a "crash" when the drug is gone.
Short-acting
Many children with online adhd medication can be helped with medications that help control their behavior. These medications can general practitioners prescribe adhd medication aid children in learning how to finish their work and build better relationships. They also reduce on distracting or irritating behaviors. Children react to medications differently, so it's important that parents and doctors collaborate to determine the right medication for each child. A health care provider may recommend a combination of medications and other treatments, including counseling.
There are two types of medications that treat ADHD in teenagers, children, and adults: stimulants and other medications. Stimulants alter brain chemical that affect attention and impulse control. They can be short-acting (lasting just a few hours) or long-acting (lasting all day). Some people experience side effects like a decrease in appetite or sleep problems. Doctors are usually able to find a medication that has no or minimal side effects for most people.
The most common medicines used to treat ADHD are known as stimulants, and they include methylphenidates and amphetamines. They're classified as Schedule II drugs by the Drug Enforcement Administration because they have a high risk for misuse or abuse when not taken in accordance with the prescription. Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall are all examples of methylphenidates. Dexedrine and Adderall are amphetamines. These medicines can have serious health problems if not taken as directed which is why it's crucial to talk to your doctor before starting these medications.
Children younger than 6 years should not be given stimulants. Some children might require a different medication, or a lower dosage. Before prescribing medication your doctor will look for other conditions that may be responsible for the symptoms of your child. You will be asked about your child's symptoms and behaviors as well as their family history. They will also conduct an exam to check whether there are any issues with vision or hearing. They might ask questions about your child’s sleep and diet. They will want to know if your child suffers from allergies. They'll give you an order and directions to take it. Follow up with your doctor frequently to check how the medicine is working.
Long-acting
Adhd Inattentive type medication medications can help you focus your mind, just as a pair glasses can help sharpen your vision. They increase levels of chemicals which are important for focus and. The two most common types of medication are stimulants (e.g. amphetamines, amphetamines and methylphenidates) and non-stimulant drugs.
Stimulant meds, that work for 70-80% of those who suffer from ADHD and are available in both short- and long-acting forms. Long-acting ADHD medications are administered in phases, with one portion of the dose being released immediately after taking the morning pill and the rest released throughout the day. They are simpler to remember, decrease the amount of pills you need to take every day and deliver a consistent dose of medication compared to shorter-acting medications. They also have fewer side-effects and "ups & downs" compared to short-acting medications.
non medication treatment for adhd-stimulant
The use of medication can ease ADHD symptoms for about 70 percent to 80% children and adults, increasing their ability to focus and control impulsivity. They also help improve the school performance and social skills. In fact medication is the primary option for many people suffering from ADHD. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other treatments such as behavior therapy.
Stimulant medicines, such as Ritalin and Adderall help by increasing the levels of neurotransmitter hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This increases the effectiveness of messages sent between nerves, which helps people focus and control their impulsivity. Stimulant medication is available in immediate-release, extended-release and long-acting tablets. The most well-known stimulants are Ritalin Concerta Adderall Vyvanse. The instant-release version that is taken in small doses throughout the day to provide quick relief from symptoms, is usually taken in smaller dosages. The extended-release and longer-acting forms are usually taken once daily and provide long-lasting relief from symptoms.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a range of nonstimulant drugs to treat ADHD. The most commonly prescribed nonstimulant medication is Atomoxetine (Strattera). A newer medication, Qelbree is a different choice. These medications don't contain amphetamine or methylphenidate and aren't controlled substances, which means that they have less potential for abuse.
Other nonstimulant medicines are clonidine and guanfacine. These are prescribed more often to those suffering from a combination of Tourette syndrome and ADHD. It takes a few weeks for them to decrease anxiety and tics. These medications can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
They aren't always efficient or well-accepted. The first medication a person takes for ADHD may not be the best choice or cause side effects that are bothersome or intolerant. The doctor can assist by adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication.
Inform your doctor about all medications including supplements and over-the counter medicines. This information can be used to avoid interactions between medications. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any changes in mood or behavior that could indicate the presence of a problem.