Medications For ADHD
The most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. They boost attention speed and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, they can cause negative side effects like stomach upset, headaches and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
The majority of stimulants belong to two classes of drugs: methylphenidates and amphetamines. adhd without medication are available in chewable or liquid form, and also as short-acting, intermediate-acting or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
The most common medication for ADHD is stimulants. They work by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve focus and attention. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release forms. The most common stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines and dextroamphetamine (Adderall). They can cause serious adverse reactions, and have a significant risk of misuse. Such medications should only be taken under a doctor's supervision. L-tyrosine, a natural supplement, may also help increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, however, it shouldn't be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments combine medication, therapy, behavior changes, and training for skills. This is sometimes referred to multimodal treatment. The medications can improve symptoms in adults and children, but they aren't able to cure the problem. To get the most effective results, they should be taken regularly. In many cases, medications may require adjustment to find the dosage that is effective in controlling symptoms while causing minimal adverse consequences.
Some people find that their symptoms are relieved by taking a short-acting stimulant in the early morning, and then follow it up with an extended-release medication in the late afternoon and evening. This can help avoid the risk of a "crash" which could cause fatigue for a short time and a negative attitude.
In the last couple of decades, amphetamines were widely utilized by truck drivers, athletes and students for non-medical purposes, primarily to boost their alertness and performance. These substances are extremely quick to take effect and give an euphoria-like feeling and energy. They can be snorted, taken in a pill, or even smoked. Certain of these drugs may also trigger addiction.
The FDA has approved atomoxetine, also known as Vyvanse (Vyvanse) and guanfacine, also known as Fastin (Guanfacine) to treat adult ADHD. These medications are alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists originally intended to lower high blood tension. These medications are effective in treating ADHD because they have a calming affect and reduce the intensity of hyperactivity and aggression. They have a low chance of serious side effects but may increase heart rate and blood pressure and can interact with some prescription or over-the counter medications.
Other medications that treat ADHD include clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. These can help to control ADHD symptoms in certain individuals, but they are frequently prescribed when stimulants don't provide enough relief or cause unpleasant adverse effects. Tricyclic antidepressants imipramine as well as nortriptyline are particularly effective in certain situations, but have been linked to challenging negative side effects, such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people who suffer from ADHD do not require medication but they can benefit by developing healthy habits of living and strategies for coping. Adults with mild to moderate symptoms can manage symptoms through diet and physical activity, while others need the help of a psychotherapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a type of therapy for talking that can teach you techniques that can change the way you think and act. Other self-help strategies, such as dietary changes and supplements, can be beneficial, but should only be utilized with the advice of a medical professional.