ADHD Medication

Medication is usually a part of an ADHD therapy plan. The two most common stimulant medications are dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. Each of these stimulant drugs has many different brand names, and each has a distinct chemical composition.

Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that help transmit messages between neurons. They are typically the first medications healthcare providers test for adults suffering from ADHD.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the primary medication that doctors prescribe for ADHD. They increase levels of certain brain chemicals dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as norepinep. These chemicals aid in improving focus, reduce aggression, and help promote peace. Doctors often prescribe amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or atomoxetine, which is in the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors, to treat ADHD. Heart-related complications that cause heart attacks are uncommon, but doctors may examine patients with heart issues closely when they are taking stimulants.

ADHD is typically treated most effectively with stimulant medications, especially for children and adolescents. These medications boost the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which help them focus and learn. They also boost energy levels and improve the state of being awake. These drugs, when taken as prescribed, can improve school performance. However, many experts worry that students who use stimulants for prolonged periods of time may develop a tolerance and begin to need more doses. They may also cause negative side effects such as changes in appetite, sleep disorders and depression.

Doctors who prescribe ADHD medication typically begin with a small dose, and then gradually increase the dosage over a few weeks. Parents and you will be asked to monitor the effects on you and the benefits of the medication. If the medicine does not seem to work or has side effects that you cannot cope with, your physician might try another medication.

Most kids and adults who are taking stimulant medications have at the very least some side effects. Most of these are mild and disappear after several days or weeks when the body is used to the medicine. Some of the most common side effects are weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and an increase in heart rate.

Certain studies have revealed that people who take stimulant medication for ADHD are more likely to develop tics. These are repeated movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. These drugs do not cause tics, but they do make them more apparent. adhd stimulant medication can cause a change in mood or voice as well as stomach upset, headaches and occasionally an increase or decrease in heart rate or blood pressure.

A few nonstimulant medications–including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)–have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These medications act differently than stimulants, increasing the levels of norepinephrine. It is another brain chemical that helps with concentration and impulse control. They can also reduce anxiety, depression, and bipolar symptoms of bipolar disorder. They are less harmful than stimulants, but don’t work as well to treat ADHD symptoms. Your doctor may recommend you consider one of these drugs for depression or bipolar disorder along with ADHD. They may also suggest psychosocial treatments to help you manage your symptoms and improve your life quality.