ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
The stimulants are used to boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Tricyclics, an older class of antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. These medications can have severe side effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them if stimulants fail to work or cause intolerable symptoms.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. These drugs work by increasing the amounts of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. People who take these drugs find that they boost their concentration, reduce fatigue, and lower impulsivity and hyperactivity. Around 70% to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from stimulants. These medications don't cause addiction when taken in the dosages prescribed for treating ADHD. However they are able to be abused and cause addiction. Those with a history or addiction to drugs or alcohol or those from a family that has a history of mental health or substance abuse issues could be at greater risk.
treating adhd without medication used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. Generics are less expensive than brand-name medications and are preferred by most insurance companies. Certain are also available as extended-release tablets which you take once a day and last for up to 16 hours. This can result in fewer "ups-and-downs" of symptoms. This is especially helpful for children.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes and generally last for four hours. They can be taken twice or three times a day. They are typically the first type of medication your doctor prescribes. Certain of them are available as chewable tablets, liquids or a patch to be placed on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants are usually taken at least once per day in the morning. They can last for up to 16 hours. They can stop the peaks and dips in effectiveness that can occur when short-acting stimulants lose their effectiveness, which can cause extreme hunger and low energy. Many people who take long-acting stimulants may supplement them with a small amount immediate-release medication in the afternoon and evening.
There are a myriad of potential negative effects that can be triggered by taking stimulants to treat ADHD. These include nausea, headaches, anxiety, a lack of appetite, and sleepiness. Most of these side-effects are mild to moderate, and they'll go away within a couple of weeks after your body adjusts. If the side effects continue or are severe, you should consult your physician.
Non-stimulants
There is a group of medicines that can be used to treat ADHD but they're not FDA-approved for this use. previous are called non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera) and varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications are generally considered to have a lower risk for misuse than stimulants, yet they could still cause anxiety, insomnia or agitation.
The best way to choose the best medication for you or your child is to consult your doctor, who can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each option. over the counter adhd medication will consider your medical background and the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other illnesses or conditions you suffer from. They'll also look at how each medication affects your child or you, and how well it works with other treatments. You'll have to inform your doctor about any food drinks, supplements or foods that you or your child take and whether you're taking other medications, whether prescription or over the counter including antidepressants.