Medications For ADHD
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. They can be used quickly to improve focus and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. They can also cause negative side effects, such as headaches, stomach upsets, as well as changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Most stimulants belong to two classes of drugs: methylphenidates and amphetamines. They are available in chewable or liquid form, and as short-acting, intermediate-acting or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication for ADHD is stimulants. They increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which increase concentration and attention. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release versions. The most popular stimulants are methylphenidate, amphetamines, and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). They can have serious side effects, and they have a high potential for misuse. These medications should be taken with a physician's approval. L-tyrosine, a natural supplement, can also increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, however, it should not be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments mix medications, therapy, behavioral changes, and skills training. It is sometimes referred as multimodal treatment. adhd without medication can improve symptoms in the majority of adults and children, but they cannot solve the problem. To get the most effective outcomes, they must be taken regularly. In many cases, medications must be adjusted to find the dose that is effective in reducing symptoms, with minimal side negative effects.
Some sufferers find that their symptoms ease by taking a quick-acting stimulant in the morning, and then follow it up with an extended-release drug in the late afternoon and evening. This can help to avoid the possibility of experiencing a "crash" after the medication has worn off, which can result in short-lived depression and fatigue.
In the last couple of decades, amphetamines were widely abused by truck drivers, athletes and students for non-medical purposes, primarily to stay awake and boost performance. They are quick to take effect and give feelings of euphoria as well as energy. They can be snorted or inhaled, or smoked. Some of these drugs are addictive.
The FDA has approved atomoxetine also known as Vyvanse (Vyvanse), and guanfacine, or Fastin (Guanfacine), to treat adult ADHD. They belong to a class of medicines that are called alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists, which were originally designed to lower high blood pressure. They are very useful for treating ADHD because they have a calm effect and can help reduce hyperactivity, aggression and the inability to focus. They have a low risk of serious side effects, but they may increase blood pressure and heart rate and can interact with some prescription and over-the-counter medicines.
Other medications to treat ADHD include clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. These medications can control ADHD symptoms for some people. They are usually prescribed when stimulants fail to provide sufficient relief or trigger unpleasant side effects. The tricyclic antidepressants imipramine and nortriptyline are particularly effective in some cases, but have been associated with a variety of adverse negative side effects, such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people with ADHD don't need to take medication, but they may benefit from developing healthy lifestyle habits and coping skills. A few adults who have mild or moderate symptoms are able to manage their symptoms through exercise and diet, whereas others may require the assistance of therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy, also known as CBT is a form of talk therapy that can teach you skills that can help you change the way you think and act. Other self-help therapies, such as diet changes and supplements can be beneficial but should not be used without a medical consultation.