ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can alleviate many symptoms of the disorder, but they cannot cure it. Most often, 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. They comprise methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin) and amphetamines, such as Dexedrine.
Methylphenidate
Among the most widely studied stimulant medications for ADHD, methylphenidate has shown to be safe and effective in children as well as adults. It is available in a variety of formulations that include tablets, liquids chewable tablets, and extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer form that is composed of only right-handed molecules and not left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR Generic name is dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Certain people may experience side effects from the methylphenidate medication, including headaches or a loss of appetite. These side effects are usually mild and disappear when they become used to the drug. Speak to your doctor if you experience any side effects continue. They could change the dosage or prescribe an entirely new medication.
In some cases methylphenidate can trigger mood changes, for example, being depressed or angry. This isn't common, but can be serious for people with a mental illness like bipolar disorder. In rare cases methylphenidate may also trigger a manic episode in people who suffer from bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate can increase your blood pressure and heart rate and is not recommended for anyone with heart problems. Anyone with a history of structural heart disease should avoid the medication, particularly young people and children. Additionally, it should not be used by those who suffer from phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that requires you must follow a low-protein diet). Tell your doctor before taking this medication if you are suffering from a heart condition.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine, an FDA-approved drug, is used to treat attention hyperactivity disorder in children and adults. It also serves as an effective treatment for binge-eating disorders (BED). It is a central nervous system stimulant that is effective by increasing the activity of certain regions of the brain. It is available on prescription only.
The drug may cause serious adverse side effects when taken in combination with other medications, such as sedatives or anticholinergics. This combination can increase your risk of heart problems and seizures. This is especially dangerous when driving or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking Vyvanse and avoid driving until you understand the effects it has on you. Utilize a medication take-back program, or mix your medication with a nontoxic substance like cat litter or dirt prior to throwing it in the trash of your home.
Studies of lisdexamfetamine demonstrate that it's as effective as the long-acting methylphenidate compounds and the non-stimulant atomoxetine. Additionally, a recent European study showed that lisdexamfetamine may be even more efficacious than methylphenidate.
The studies of lisdexamfetamine show that the drug may improve functioning in school and work environments. Brown and colleagues37 conducted a small open-label trial which showed significant improvements in a simulation workplace. Wigal and colleagues38 conducted a study that showed significant improvements in performance when tested on a permanent Product Measure of Performance.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine differs from stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall (dextroamphetamine), and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). It is not a centrally-nervous system stimulant but a noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is an organic chemical that transmits messages from one nerve cell to another brain. After sending a message noradrenaline gets reabsorbed by the nerve endings as part of a recycling process. Atomoxetine hinders this process and increases the levels of active noradrenaline in the brain. This helps to improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The medication is consumed orally and comes in capsule form. The medication is typically prescribed twice a day or once a day however, it can be administered more frequently if needed. It is very important to follow your doctor's directions, especially when you first start treatment. You should take the medicine with food and drink a full glass of water. Do not mix with hot drinks or any other medicine unless you are told otherwise.
Studies have shown that atomoxetine can improve ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents but it is not as efficient than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate. It is less effective than non-stimulant drugs, such as tricyclic antidepressants, or Clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness. To avoid this, it is recommended to not rise too fast from a position of lying down. You should also stay away from smoking cigarettes and alcohol while taking this drug. You should also talk to your doctor regarding the best diet you or your child should follow.
Adderall
Adderall is a central nervous system stimulant that is used to improve alertness and attention. It works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters found in the brain: norepinephrine and dopamine. Dopamine reinforces positive behaviors while norepinephrine regulates blood pressure, heart rate, and blood vessels.
When taken at doctor-recommended dosages, Adderall doesn't cause a feeling of being high. It can still cause adverse effects such as dry mouth and insomnia. If your child or teenager is experiencing these symptoms, talk to their physician. The doctor could be able to change medications or the dosage.
Stimulant medication is a popular treatment for ADHD however, they can cause problems for certain children. These problems can range from school-related problems to social issues. Stimulants are also abused by teens to get an "buzz." They may even lead to addiction. Fortunately, the majority of these problems can be avoided.
A few children with ADHD have difficulty sleeping at the night. The medication can help them sleep. However, it's essential to limit caffeine intake and screen time prior to the time of sleep. It's also recommended to stay clear of drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall includes amphetamine, which is a controlled substance. It could cause false positives in drug screening tests. It's important that you provide this information to your employer or coach should you be involved in sports. The length of time that Adderall stays in your body varies from person to person, which is why it's recommended not to take it in the last two to four days prior to your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine is a potent stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It works like other ADHD drugs to boost the brain's neurotransmitters, decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, enhancing listening abilities, and altering the way a person feels. It comes in short-acting tablets and extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule). It is classified as a Schedule II drug, meaning it could cause addiction. It may also increase the heart rate and blood pressure. If this happens, inform your doctor right away.
Many children with ADHD have side effects while taking stimulant medication. They may have stomach upsets, sleep problems or may become aggressive or irritable. These side effects can be controlled or eliminated by changing the dosage and formula or the type of medication.
The medication does not cure ADHD but they can help children manage their emotions and focus. They can also improve their performance at school. However, ADHD symptoms will return if the drugs are discontinued. It is essential to take them exactly as directed by your doctor.
Stimulant medications can increase the heart rate in certain patients, and doctors should keep an eye on blood pressure and heart rhythm. They can also cause sleep problems and changes in appetite. The best way to treat ADHD is with a combination of medication, therapy, and skills training. Children who receive treatment with ADHD often have lower full-scale IQs than children who don't. They are more likely to require special education and remedial academic services, and require more years to finish high school. They are also more likely to quit college.
Ritalin
When Ritalin was first used to treat ADHD it was created with kindergarteners and first-graders in mind, since they only need the medication for three or four hours each day. But as kids get older their need to focus increases, so they need longer-lasting medications. There are medicines that behave like stimulants, but last up to 12 hours. These medications are called "methylphenidates" and they boost two chemicals that influence the brain's concentration dopamine and norepinephrine. The medications come in various forms, including pills that can be swallowed, chewed or dissolved and liquids that are sucked into the mouth and patches that sticks to the skin, similar to the band-aid.
The medication cannot cure ADHD but it can help you stay focused and less distracted at work or at school. It helps people follow directions and listen. But it can cause side effects such as trouble sleeping, appetite problems and abdominal pain. adhd stimulant medication can also aggravate 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 misused, which is why they are categorized as Schedule II drugs by the DEA. Only available with a prescription from a doctor, they should be kept away from youngsters and adults who could use them. Atomoxetine, Guanfacine, and other Schedule II drugs have fewer negative effects than stimulants.