How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medicines can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the quantity of a neurotransmitter called norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants are the most common medication prescribed to children suffering from ADHD.
go right here come in long- and short-acting dosages. They are recommended to take longer-acting doses, as they last 8-12 hours and need to be taken only once per day. They also limit the rebound effect, where symptoms return, often worse than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of prescription medication healthcare professionals employ to treat ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in your brain known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals assist you in staying focused and stay focused.
The risk of experiencing side effects is high when stimulants are used for a long time. Talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of these medications, including possible changes in appetite, mood and heart rate and how they affect your sleep.
If you take a stimulant medication for long periods of time, you could be at risk for addiction or misuse. Addiction is when you feel you can't resist the urge to use a drug, even if it causes harmful adverse effects. Addiction can manifest as a need to take more than your doctor suggests or feeling dependent on the drug.
Abuse of stimulant medications can also lead to other health problems including depression and suicidal thoughts. It is imperative to report the police if you suspect that someone you know is using stimulant medications to harm themselves or others.
The most popular stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and the methylphenidate (brand-name medication Ritalin, Concerta or Dexamphetamine). Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. These are typically taken once or twice per day.
The extended-release versions of amphetamines are more effective than their short-acting counterparts. They can last from six to eight hours and can assist you in navigating your day with fewer "ups" and"downs.
Extended-release stimulants can be paired with an immediate-release medication during the afternoon. This is a great option when ADHD symptoms appear late in the day, or if the medication isn't working early.
A small amount of a stimulant that acts long-term at the time of bed can be a good option to aid you in falling asleep. It isn't advised to take this medicine on an empty stomach, since it could cause a decrease in energy and may result in a poor sleep.
Insomnia is a common adverse effect of stimulants in the beginning stages of treatment. This can be prevented by not taking the medicine before bed and sleeping enough on a regular basis.
Anxiety is another frequent reaction to stimulants. It can be mild or severe and can result in tics, which are uncontrollable movements or sounds, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also worsen the symptoms of depression or bipolar disorder.
Although changes in blood pressure and heart rate can occur, the effects are rarely significant. If you are beginning to use stimulants to treat ADHD your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
Insomnia is a possible result of ADHD medication. This is less of a concern when you start to take stimulants in conjunction with a prescription sleep aid or by using a relaxing or meditation method prior to going to bed.