ADHD Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants alter how the brain releases chemicals which affect concentration. Doctors typically begin stimulants for ADHD patients and gradually increase the dosage until they can help.
Antidepressants are also prescribed to those with ADHD (not just for depression). These drugs act on the same chemicals as stimulants, but have fewer adverse effects.
Stimulants
The first medication doctors prescribe for ADHD is stimulants. They increase levels of dopamine as well as other neurotransmitter hormones that help people concentrate and reduce fatigue. These drugs are typically given to children, but they are also available for adults and teenagers. These are the most frequently prescribed for ADHD in the United States. However, they can cause a wide range of side effects. Some individuals need to switch between stimulant medication or dosages in order to find the right one for them. Some patients require combining their medication and other treatment methods.
Most ADHD medications have been approved by the FDA and have passed tests on humans to prove safety and efficacy. These medications can aid in improving concentration, decrease symptoms of ADHD and can help prevent problems with impulse control in adults and children. They can reduce the risk of relapse into addiction and help people with ADHD develop more productive lives. Teenagers who are not treated for ADHD have a higher chance of developing drug-related problems in adulthood. Untreated adults with ADHD have a higher chance of being involved in accidents in their motor vehicles, and making risky decisions like gambling or driving under the influence.
Most doctors prescribe methylphenidate as the first ADHD medication. It can be taken as a pill, capsule, or orally disintegrating tablet. It is also available as a long-acting medication, Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine extended-release) as well as a medical patch. Many brand-name ADHD medications are now available in generic versions that cost less and may be preferred by insurance companies. The chemical composition of the medication is exactly the same in the generic version as it is in the branded medication.
Amphetamines can be prescribed to treat ADHD however they also have a great chance of abuse and addiction. Schedule I drugs are illegal to be sold or possessed without the prescription of a doctor. Doctors are more cautious when prescribing amphetamines for those with an addiction history or agitation. Certain people might also suffer heart problems while taking amphetamines.
Non-stimulant drugs are typically used only if the person isn't able to or doesn't want to take stimulant medication or have bothersome side effects. These medications can take up to six weeks to work and may require dosage or timing adjustment. They boost the activity of norepinephrine within the brain, which aids with attention and focus. These drugs are prescribed for other conditions, such as depression and high blood pressure, but have been found to decrease ADHD symptoms.
It's normal to need to test a variety of ADHD medication to find the one that's most effective for you. Iampsychiatry and keep in touch with your doctor. They can let you know if your needs are changing and they'll adjust the medication or the dosage.
It's crucial to know that despite the positive effects of some ADHD medication, it is still important to take an entire approach to manage symptoms and maximize outcomes [1]. In addition to drug therapy, other options include behavior modification, CBT and dietary adjustments.