ADHD Medication - Choosing the Right One
The use of medication is an essential part of ADHD treatment. Finding the right medication can take a while, since various medications affect people in different ways.
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that aid focus and control impulses. medication for adult add can also have adverse effects like shaky fingers, stomach aches and an increased heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that enhance -- or "stimulate" the processes and activities in the brain. They can boost alertness, focus, and energy and help improve focus. They can also increase blood pressure and heart rates.
They can trigger adverse effects, such as a decrease in appetite and difficulty sleeping, but they're generally safe to use long-term. They're typically taken once or twice a day, depending on the medicine. They can be found in chewable, liquid, or pill form. Some are short-acting, lasting only some hours. Some are long-acting and remain in the body up to 16 hours.
medication for adults with add suffering from ADHD often have difficulty paying attention and following instructions. They can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. This can have a negative effect on their academic, social, and work life. ADHD can be treated in many ways. Medications are often the first choice for adults with ADHD. There are several FDA-approved medications to treat the condition, such as stimulants and non-stimulants.
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) dextroamphetamine, salts of dextroamphetamine (Adderall), and atomoxetine (Strattera). These drugs affect brain chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine. These medications are known to improve concentration and reduce anxiety, restlessness and impulse control.
Certain people with ADHD may be tempted abuse stimulants that are frequently prescribed to others or even sold illegally. Misusing stimulants may result in addiction and other health issues. It can also increase the chances of developing anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Other medications used to treat ADHD do not affect the same chemical as stimulants. These include clonidine, guanfacine and Atomoxetine. These are beneficial for those who are unable to tolerate stimulant drugs or have a medical issue that makes them too much. These medicines take longer to start working however, they can increase the ability of an individual to be aware and manage their emotions.
If you are considering taking medication to treat ADHD, it's important that you speak with your doctor. Some people find that medication doesn't work for them. They can reduce their symptoms by making behavioral therapy and lifestyle changes. The medicines may interact with other medications, so it's especially important to inform your doctor about any medications you or your child is taking medicines, including those sold over the counter and supplements.
Alcohol and other drugs that stimulate the nervous system should be avoided by those with ADHD who are taking stimulant ADHD medication. This includes some over-the-counter cough and cold medicines as well as some diet aids and some over-the-counter drugs that can make you jittery. Stimulant ADHD drugs can increase the effects of alcohol, and even a small amount of alcohol could cause feeling of drunkenness more quickly than it would in people who don't use the medication. People suffering from depression or other mood disorders should also consult their physician prior to taking any stimulants. They may need to adjust their dose or stop taking medication. You should also go to bed earlier because stimulant ADHD medication can make it difficult to fall asleep.