ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can alleviate many symptoms of the disorder, but they can't cure it. Typically, your physician will prescribe medication along with counseling, education, and behavior therapy.
The most commonly prescribed medication 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 like Dexedrine).
Methylphenidate
One of the most extensively studied stimulant medications for ADHD, methylphenidate is proven to be safe and effective in children as well as adults. It is available in different forms that include chewable tablets as well as liquids, pills and extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer version that only contains right-handed molecules and not the left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR Generic name is dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Some people may experience side-effects from methylphenidate, such as headaches and loss of appetite. These side effects are usually mild and disappear as they get used to the drug. Talk to your doctor if these adverse reactions persist. They could alter the dosage or prescribe an entirely new medication.
In some cases methylphenidate can trigger mood changes, such as being depressed or angry. It is not common, but it could be serious if you have a preexisting mental illness such as bipolar disorder. In rare cases, methylphenidate may also cause a manic episode for those with bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can increase your blood pressure and heart rate which is not a good thing for anyone with heart problems. Anyone with a history or heart problems that are structural should stay away from the medication, especially young and infancy. It should not be used by people with phenylketonuria, an inherited condition that requires a low-protein eating plan. Consult your physician prior to taking this medication if you have an issue with your heart.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine, an FDA-approved drug is used to treat attention-hyperactivity disorder in children and adults. It is also an effective treatment for binge eating disorder (BED). It is a central nervous system stimulant that increases activity in certain parts of the brain. It is only available through prescription.
The drug can cause serious side effects if combined with other medications, including anticholinergics and sedatives. This combination can increase the risk of having seizures and heart issues. This is especially dangerous when driving or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Vyvanse and don't drive until you understand the effects it has on your. If you need to dispose of your medication, make use of a medicine take-back program or mix it with a non-toxic substance such as cat litter or dirt, and dispose of it in your household garbage.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine demonstrate that it is as efficacious as the long-acting methylphenidate compounds and the non-stimulant Atomoxetine. A recent European study also revealed that lisdexamfetamine is more effective than methylphenidate.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine have shown that the drug can enhance functioning in school and work environments. A small study with an open-label label by Brown et. al37 revealed significant improvement in a workplace. Another study by Wigal et al38 demonstrated improvements in performance on a permanent Product Measure of Performance test.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is different from stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall(dextroamphetamine), or Vyvanse(lisdexamfetamine). It is not a centrally nervous system stimulant but a noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is a chemical that carries messages from one nerve cell to another brain. After sending a message, noradrenaline gets reabsorbed by nerve endings as part of a recycling process. Atomoxetine stops this recycling and increases the levels of active noradrenaline in the brain. This improves attention and decreases impulsive behavior.
The capsules are available in oral forms. It is usually given once or twice per day, but may be administered more frequently when needed. It is important to follow the doctor's directions closely, particularly at the beginning of treatment. Take the medicine after meals and drink plenty of fluids. Do not mix it with hot drinks or other medicines unless directed otherwise.
Studies show that atomoxetine improves ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents but it is not as efficient than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate. It is also less effective than nonstimulant medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants, as well as clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. Avoid this by not rising too quickly after lying down. Avoid alcohol and smoking when taking this medication. You should also talk to your doctor regarding the best diet that you or your child can have.
Adderall
Adderall is an stimulant for the central nervous system that helps to increase alertness and concentration. It works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters found in the brain: dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine reinforces positive behaviors while norepinephrine regulates the heart rate, blood pressure, and blood vessels.
Adderall does not cause high when used in the dosage that is recommended by your physician. However, it can trigger negative side effects, such as dry mouth and insomnia. If your child or teenager experiences these symptoms, talk to their physician. The doctor might be able to alter the dosage or switch medications.
Stimulant medications are a popular treatment for ADHD, but it can cause issues in certain kids. These problems can range from poor performance at school to social issues. Teens also abuse stimulants to get high. They can lead to addiction. The majority of these issues are preventable.
Certain children with ADHD are unable to sleep at the night. The medication may aid them in sleeping. However, it's important to limit caffeine and screen time prior to the time of bed. It's also a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall contains amphétamine, a controlled substance. It can cause false positives on drug tests. Therefore, it's crucial to inform the authorities if you work or play sports. The amount of time Adderall remains in the body varies from person to person, which is why it's recommended not to take it within the last two to four days before your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine, a powerful stimulant can affect the central nervous system. It works in conjunction with other ADHD medications to boost the brain's neurotransmitters, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity, improving listening abilities, and altering how people feel. It is available in short-acting tablets and extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule). It is a Schedule II drug, meaning it could create addiction. It may also increase the heart rate and blood pressure. If this happens, inform your doctor immediately.
Many children with ADHD experience side effects when taking stimulant medication. They may experience an upset stomach, have difficulty sleeping, or feel angry or irritable. These side effects can be controlled or eliminated by changing the dosage, formula, or kind of medication.
The medication does not cure ADHD however they can aid a child to control their emotions and focus. They can also improve their academic performance. However, ADHD symptoms will return when the medication is stopped. They must be taken exactly as directed by your physician.
Doctors should monitor blood pressure and heart rhythm. They can also trigger sleep problems and changes in appetite. The best way to manage ADHD is to combine medication, therapy and skills training. Children who receive treatment with ADHD typically have lower full-scale IQs than those without it. They are more likely than other children to require special education or remedial academic services, and to be slower to complete high school. They are also more likely to leave college.
Ritalin
Ritalin, the first medication used to treat ADHD in children, was designed for kindergarteners and first graders in mind. They only required it for three or four hours a day. As kids age, they become more unable to concentrate, and so require a longer-lasting drug. There are some medications that act like stimulants, but last for up to 12 hours. These drugs are known as "methylphenidates" and they increase two chemicals that affect concentration in the brain dopamine and norepinephrine. The medicines come in different forms, such as pills that can be swallowed, chewed on or dissolved liquids that are squeezed into the mouth, and a patch that sticks to the skin, similar to a band-aid.
The medication doesn't cure ADHD however it can help people stay focused and less distracted at work or in class. It helps you follow instructions and pay attention. However, adhd medication names can also cause side effects such as difficulties sleeping, problems with appetite and abdominal pain. It can also worsen symptoms of anxiety, agitation, or psychosis. It's important to tell your doctor immediately in case you exhibit any of these symptoms.
Stimulant medications have the potential to be abused, and they are classified as Schedule II drugs by the DEA. They can only be purchased on prescription and must be kept out of reach from children and adults who might misuse them. Atomoxetine and Guanfacine, however, are not Schedule II drugs and have less adverse effects than stimulants.