The Most Effective Medication For ADHD Tips To Transform Your Life
How Does Medication For ADHD Work?
Many children and adults find ADHD medication helps improve their ability to concentrate and control impulses. It also helps them organize themselves. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate medication for your child in consultation with you.
Stimulants are the first line treatment for ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications for ADHD work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain (called neurotransmitters). This decreases symptoms, and increases performance and attention span. Different medications affect people in different ways, and it can take time to find the right one(s) and the appropriate dose(s).
Whichever medication you or your child takes the medication should be taken according to the instructions of your doctor. Taking too much or too little can have serious effects. It is also important to take your medication at the same time each day to ensure a consistent amount of medication in your body. It is essential to help children with ADHD to keep a regular routine. Teachers, parents, and other caregivers are often able to assist.
The majority of the drugs used to treat ADHD are called stimulants. These medicines stimulate brain activity, specifically in areas that control attention and behavior. These are the first treatment options that doctors consider and are effective for 70 to 80% children and adults suffering from ADHD. Stimulants reduce hyperactivity, fidgeting, and interrupting and improve behaviour and school performance. They can also help with relationships and home issues.
Methylphenidate (formerly Ritalin) is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. It is available in short-acting tablet form that starts working in 30 to 60 minutes and disappears after 3 to 4 hours. Long-acting tablets are also available. They are designed to last six to eight hours, and are taken in the morning. Many people prefer to pair the long-acting tablet with a shorter-acting one in the late afternoon, to prevent the "crash" that can happen as the stimulant starts to wear off.
The other major kind of ADHD medication is amphetamines, which are stronger and last longer than methylphenidate medication. Examples of these are Adderall and Dexedrine. These can be taken in the form of chewable tablets or liquids and are best suited to older teens or adults who don't have a problem with how the medicine tastes.
Both stimulants can trigger side-effects such as headaches, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. They can also increase the heart rate and blood pressure in certain people.
non stimulant adhd medication for ADHD like guanfacine and atomoxetine, change how chemical messengers within the brain work and are less likely to make you feel "high" or buzzed. They also carry a lower risk of addiction or abuse. They are a great option for people who aren't able to use stimulants or as part a treatment plan alongside lifestyle changes and training.
There is some debate about how well they work because some studies have shown that they do not improve academic performance for students suffering from ADHD. However, the majority of teenagers with ADHD who use these drugs claim that they improve their ability to concentrate on tasks, complete them and manage their emotions. They also report improvements in their social lives and relationships, as well as overall happiness.