ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can help alleviate a variety of symptoms of the disorder, but they can't cure it. Typically, your doctor will prescribe medication along with counseling, education, and behavior therapy.
The most common medication prescribed for ADHD is stimulant drugs. They function by increasing or balancing brain chemicals that control behavior and attention. These include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta (and amphetamines, such as Dexedrine).
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is among the most extensively studied stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. It has been shown to be safe and effective for both children as well as adults. The medication is available in different forms such as chewable tablets, liquids, pills, and extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer form that only contains right-handed molecules, not left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR; Generic name dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Certain people may experience side-effects from methylphenidate such as headaches and a loss of appetite. These effects are typically minor, and disappear when the patient is familiar with the medication. If the side effects persist consult your physician. They could change the dosage or prescribe a new medication.
In certain instances, methylphenidate may cause mood changes, such as feeling depressed or aggressive. It is not common, but it could be serious if you suffer from a preexisting mental illness like bipolar disorder. In rare instances methylphenidate could cause a manic episode for bipolar disorder sufferers.
Methylphenidate increases blood pressure and heart rate, which is detrimental for those with heart problems. It should not be taken by anyone with a history of heart failure or structural heart disease, especially in children and young adults. It should also not be used by those suffering from phenylketonuria. It is an inherited condition that requires a low-protein diet plan. It is important to inform your doctor if you suffer from an issue with your heart before taking this medication.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a FDA-approved drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It is also an effective treatment for binge eating disorder (BED). It is a central nerve system stimulant which increases the activity in specific areas of the brain. It is only available through prescription.
The drug can cause serious adverse side effects when used in conjunction with other medications, like sedatives or anticholinergics. This combination could increase your risk of developing heart issues and seizures. This can be dangerous when operating machinery or driving. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Vyvanse and ensure not to drive until you are aware of how the drug affects you. If you have to dispose of your medication, you can use a medicine take-back program or mix it with a non-toxic substance such as dirt or cat litter and dispose of it in your household garbage.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine show that it is as efficacious as the long-acting methylphenidate compounds and the non-stimulant atomoxetine. A recent European study found that lisdexamfetamine may be even more efficacious than the methylphenidate.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine have shown that the drug can improve functioning in school and work environments. Brown and colleagues37 conducted a small open-label trial which demonstrated significant improvements in a simulated work environment. A different study by Wigal and al38 showed improvements in performance when taking a permanent Product Measure of Performance test.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine differs from stimulants like Ritalin, Adderall (dextroamphetamine) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). It is not a central nerve system stimulant, but instead a noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is a chemical that is found in the brain that transmits messages from one nerve to another, is an organic chemical. Noradrenaline is recycled by nerve endings following sending a message. Atomoxetine blocks this recycling process and increases the levels of active noradrenaline within the brain. This improves attention and reduces impulse-driven behavior.
The medication is taken orally and comes in capsule form. The medication is usually prescribed twice a day or once a day but it is also possible to give more frequently if required. It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions, especially when you are first starting treatment. Take the medicine after a meal and drink plenty of water. Do not mix how does medication for adhd work with hot beverages or other medications, unless you are instructed otherwise.
Studies show that atomoxetine helps improve ADHD symptoms in adolescents and children however it is less efficient than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate. It is also less effective than nonstimulant medications, including tricyclic antidepressants and Clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause dizziness lightheadedness, and fainting. To avoid this, you should not rise too fast from a lying position. You should also avoid smoking cigarettes and alcohol when taking this medication. It is also recommended to consult your doctor regarding the best diet that you or your child should follow.
Adderall
Adderall is a drug used to increase alertness and concentration. It works by raising the levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain: dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine enhances positive behavior, while norepinephrine regulates blood pressure, heart rate and blood vessels.
Adderall does not cause high when taken in the dosage prescribed by your doctor. However, it can cause adverse effects such as dry mouth and insomnia. Talk to your doctor in the event that you notice these signs in your child or teenager. The doctor may be able to change the dose or switch medications.
The use of stimulant medications is a typical treatment for ADHD however it can cause issues in certain children. These issues can range from poor school performance to social problems. In addition, stimulants are used by teens to get a "buzz." They may even lead to addiction. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be avoided.
Some kids with ADHD are unable to sleep at night. The medication can aid them in sleeping. However, it's essential to limit the consumption of caffeine and screen time prior to the time of bed. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall contains amphétamine, which is a controlled substance. It can cause false positives on tests for drug screening. Therefore, it's important to provide this information when you play or work in sports. Adderall's duration in the body varies from one person to another. It is recommended to not take it for two to four days prior to your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine is a potent stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It works similarly to other ADHD medications by increasing the brain's Neurotransmitters. It increases the brain's neurotransmitters and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. It also improves listening skills and changes how a person is feeling. It comes in short-acting tablets and extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule). It is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it can cause addiction. It may also raise blood pressure and heart rate. If this occurs, consult your doctor right away.
Many children with ADHD have side effects from stimulant medication. They may suffer from stomach issues or sleep issues or may become aggressive or irritable. These side effects can either be eliminated or reduced by changing the dosage, formulation or the type of medication is changed.
The medications are not able to cure ADHD however they can assist a child to control their emotions and focus. They can also help them do better at school. However, ADHD symptoms will return after discontinuation of the drug. You must take them exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Doctors should monitor the heart rhythm and blood pressure. They can also cause sleep issues and changes in appetite. The best approach to treat ADHD is to combine medication, therapy and skills training. Children who suffer from ADHD are less able to achieve full scale IQs when compared to children without. They are more likely to need remedial and special education services, and they take longer years to finish high school. They are more likely to leave college.
Ritalin
When Ritalin was first introduced to treat ADHD it was created for first-graders and kindergarteners in mind, as they only required the medication for three or four hours per day. As kids age get older, they are less able to focus, and thus require longer-lasting medication. There are medicines that behave like stimulants, but last for as long as 12 hours. These are referred to as "methylphenidates," and they increase the levels of two chemicals in the brain that affect concentration: norepinephrine and dopamine. The medicines come in different forms, including pills that can be swallowed, chewed on or dissolved liquids that are squeezed into the mouth and a patch that adheres to the skin similar to the band-aid.
The medication isn't able to cure ADHD but it can help people stay focus and less tense at work or in school. It makes it easier to follow instructions and pay attention. However, it could cause adverse effects, such as difficulties sleeping, problems with appetite and abdominal pain. It can also aggravate symptoms such as anxiety and agitation. It can also trigger psychosis. Contact your doctor immediately when you notice any of these symptoms.
These medications are prone to become abused, so they are considered Schedule II drugs by the DEA. They can only be purchased on prescription and must be kept out of reach from adults and children who may misuse them. Atomoxetine, guanfacine and other Schedule II drugs have fewer side-effects than stimulants.