Medications For ADHD
The most common medication for ADHD is stimulants. They boost attention speed and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can cause negative side effects, such as stomach upset, headaches as well as changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates comprise the two main classes of stimulants. They are available in liquid or chewable form and are available as short-acting and intermediate- or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
The most common treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They increase brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which enhance attention and focus. They are available in immediate release and extended-release versions. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines as well as dextroamphetamine (Adderall). natural adhd medication can have serious side effects, and they have a high potential for abuse. These medications should only be taken with a doctor's approval. L-tyrosine, a natural supplement, may also help increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, however, it shouldn't be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments include therapy, medication, behavior changes and skills training. This is often referred to as multimodal treatment. The medications can improve symptoms in adults and children but aren't able to cure the problem. They should be used regularly to achieve the best results. In a lot of cases the medication will need to be adjusted to determine the most minimal dose that effectively treats symptoms and has the smallest amount of adverse consequences.
Some people notice that their symptoms are relieved when they take a short-acting stimulant in the early morning, and then supplement it with an extended-release medication in late afternoon and evening. This can prevent the risk of a "crash", which can result in short-term fatigue and a negative mood.
In the past few decades, amphetamines were widely used by truck drivers, athletes and students for a variety of non-medical purposes, primarily to keep them awake and improve their performance. The brain is affected by these drugs very quickly and give a feeling of euphoria, energy and alertness. They can be snorted, injected or taken in the form of a smoke. Certain of these drugs may also trigger addiction.
The FDA has approved two medications to treat adult ADHD that are Atomoxetine (Vyvanse) and guanfacine (Fastin). These are alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists, originally intended to lower blood pressure. They are very useful for treating ADHD due to their calm effect and can help reduce aggression, hyperactivity and the inability to concentrate. They have a low risk of serious side effects, but they can raise heart rate and blood pressure, and may interfere with prescription and over-the-counter medicines.
Other medications that treat ADHD include clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. They can be helpful in controlling ADHD symptoms in some individuals, but they are frequently prescribed when stimulants don't provide enough relief or cause undesirable side effects. The tricyclic antidepressants imipramine, and nortriptyline have been proven to be effective in certain situations however they have been linked to challenging reactions such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people who suffer from ADHD don't need medication, but they can benefit by developing healthy habits of living and coping techniques. Some adults with mild to moderate symptoms can manage symptoms through exercise and diet and some require the help of a therapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy, also known as CBT is a kind of talk therapy that can teach you techniques that can change your thinking and behave. Other self-help techniques like diet changes and supplements, can be beneficial but should be utilized with the advice of a medical professional.