Medications For ADHD
The most common medication for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in improving focus and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. They can also cause side effects like headaches, stomach upsets, as well as changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two main groups of stimulants. They are available in liquid or chewable form, as well as in short-acting, intermediate-acting or long-acting drugs.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They work by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and attention. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release formulations. The most common stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines and dextroamphetamine (Adderall). They can cause serious adverse reactions, and have a significant risk of abuse. Medications such as these should only be used under a doctor's supervision. L-tyrosine, a supplement that is natural can also increase dopamine levels and norepinephrine. However it should be taken under the supervision of a medical professional.
The most effective treatments combine treatment, medication, behavioral changes, and training for skills. best adhd medication for adults with anxiety is often referred to as multimodal treatment. The drugs can help alleviate symptoms for most children and adults but they aren't able to cure the problem. To achieve the best results, they should be taken regularly. In many cases, medications may require adjustment to find the dose that is effective in controlling symptoms while causing minimal adverse consequences.
Some people find that their symptoms get better by taking a short-acting stimulant in the early morning, and then follow it up with an extended-release medication in the late afternoon and evening. This can help avoid the risk of a "crash" when the medication wears off which can cause short-lasting fatigue and a bad mood.
In the last few decades, amphetamines have been widely abused for non-medical purposes particularly by truck drivers, athletes and students to stay awake and to enhance performance. These substances are extremely quick to take effect and give feelings of euphoria as well as energy. They can be snorted, inhaled, or taken in the form of a smoke. Some of these drugs can also cause addiction.
The FDA has approved two medicines to treat adult ADHD that are atomoxetine (Vyvanse) and guanfacine (Fastin). They belong to a class of drugs that are called alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists, which were originally created to lower blood pressure. These drugs are effective in treating ADHD due to their a relaxing effect and decrease the amount of hyperactivity and aggression. They have a low chance of serious side effects, but they can raise heart rate and blood pressure and can interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Clonidine (Kanerol), and antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. These medications can reduce ADHD symptoms for a few people. They are typically prescribed when stimulants don't offer enough relief or trigger unpleasant adverse effects. Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine and Nortriptyline may be effective in certain cases but they also have adverse effects that are difficult to manage.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people with ADHD do not require medication however, they can benefit from learning healthy lifestyle habits and strategies for coping. A few adults who have mild or moderate symptoms are able to manage their symptoms through exercising and diet, while others may require the assistance of therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that teaches techniques to alter the way people think and behave. Other self-help methods, such as diet changes and supplements can be beneficial but should not be attempted without a medical consultation.