Best Medication For ADHD

Most children and teenagers who are taking ADHD medication find they concentrate better, are less impulsive, feel calmer and get on with their schoolwork. Some sufferers may experience a slowing of their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure when they are taking these drugs.

Medications are available in different forms including tablets, capsules liquid, patches and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available as immediate-release dextroamphetamine, sustained-release amphetamine, and dextroamphetamine with extended release.

Stimulants

One of the best adhd medication for adults with anxiety and depression medications for ADHD is a class known as stimulants. These drugs improve focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, specifically norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals regulate the prefrontal cortex, often known as the "secretary of the brain" because it helps in planning and organization abilities.

Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines peak within 30 to 45 minutes, and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a day. They include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, but they both work the same way in improving concentration and attention. There are also extended-release versions of some stimulant drugs. They are the best choice because they last between 8 to 12 hours, and are usually taken every day. Some of these medicines are a powder that you mix with liquid to make drinks, while others are in pill form.

Finding the right medication may take a bit of time. Your doctor will be able to monitor your response to different types of medication and alter the dosage as needed. The use of medicines should be a part of an overall treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medications can take a bit longer to start working however they can make you feel more in control and increase your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way that stimulants do. They can therefore be used for a longer time. They can also be less prone to negative effects, including heartburn, constipation and a lessened sex drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat all adhd medications is called Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of selective norepinephrine. Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine. It is also known as Intuniv or clonidine, which are both medicines in this class.

There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that can be prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. These are older medications within the tricyclic antidepressant family such as Tofranil (imipramine). These medications are only prescribed by doctors if stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or have too many adverse effects.

Viloxazine and atomoxetine are prescribed by your doctor. These drugs don't have an immediate effect however they can reduce impulsivity and improve concentration over time. These Medications Used To Treat Adhd belong to a different class of drugs compared to the others and can cause side effects like shaky hand or headache. Your doctor might also suggest an antidepressant with a low dose, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) which isn't FDA approved for adhd medication pregnancy treatment, but can increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but not always serious side effects like ringing or changes in vision.