adhd medication names - Stimulants
The effects of stimulants are increased levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Doctors also sometimes prescribe the older class of antidepressants known as tricyclics to treat ADHD. These medications can cause serious side effects. Doctors usually only prescribe them if stimulants do not work or cause intolerable symptoms.
Stimulants
The most common medication used to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. These drugs increase the amount of dopamine that is present in your brain. People who take these medications find that they boost their concentration, reduce fatigue, and lower impulsivity and hyperactivity. The stimulants can help 70 percent to 80% people with ADHD improve their performance. These drugs aren't habit-forming in the doses used to treat ADHD, but they are a risk for abuse and addiction. People who have a history of addiction to alcohol or drugs, or those who come from a family of mental health or substance abuse issues could be at greater risk.
The most common stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. adhd and medication of these medicines are available as generics, which are less expensive than brand-name medications and are preferred by many insurance companies. Some of these medicines are available as extended-release tablets which can be taken once every week and last for up to 16 hours. adhd medications for adults could result in less "ups and downs" of symptoms, which can be especially helpful for school-aged children.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) begin working within 30 to 45 minutes. They last approximately four hours. You may take them two or three times a day. Most often, they are the first medication that your doctor prescribes. Some of them are available as chewable tablets, liquids or a patch to be placed on the skin.
Intermediate and long-acting stimulants can last for up to 16 hours, and are consumed daily in the morning. They can help prevent the peaks and dips in effectiveness that occur when stimulants that are short-acting wear off, which can cause extreme hunger and low energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants supplement them by taking a small amount of immediate-release medication during the afternoon and evening.
There are many possible side effects of taking stimulants to treat ADHD. These include headaches, nausea, nervousness, lack of appetite, and sleepiness. Most of these side effects are moderate to mild and disappear after a few weeks as your body adjusts. Talk to your doctor when the side effects become severe or don't go away after a few weeks.
Non-stimulants
These are also known as non-stimulant ADHD medicines and include atomoxetine (Strattera) varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medication and include atomoxetine and bupropion. Most of these medications have a lower risk for misuse than stimulants, yet they may still cause anxiety, insomnia or agitation.
The best way to select the right medication for you or your child is to consult with your physician, who can assist you in weighing the benefits and risks of each choice. Your doctor will look at your medical background as well as the severity of your symptoms, and any other conditions or illnesses you suffer from. They will also consider how each medication affects your child or you and how it interacts with other treatments. You should inform your doctor about any supplements, foods or drinks you or your child take in addition to any prescription or over-the counter medication you're taking, such as antidepressants.