ADHD Medication Names
Around 70 to 80% adults and children experience symptoms of ADHD. They can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity and help kids focus. The health care team will be able to monitor how well the medication is working and may alter your child's dose or frequency of use.
medication for autism and adhd work by helping neurons transmit signals. Examples include methylphenidate sold under the brand names Ritalin or Concerta, and dexamfetamine, available under the brand name Vyvanse. Atomoxetine and long-acting Guanfacine- both called alpha agonists -- also help treat ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most commonly employed ADHD medication can assist patients of all ages manage their symptoms. These drugs increase dopamine levels in the brain, which helps improve concentration and focus while reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity. The most frequently prescribed stimulants are amphetamines as well as methylphenidate. Adderall Ritalin and Dexadrine are popular brand names. Illicit stimulants include methamphetamine (meth) and crystal meth, cocaine, and bath salts made of synthetic cathinones (ecstasy).
The use of stimulants can trigger adverse effects, such as stomach upset, decreased appetite, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate. People who have used stimulants for long periods may also experience the "rebound effect," meaning they become hyperactive when the drug wears off. They might also experience mood swings, such as depression and anxiety. These side effects tend to diminish with time as the body adjusts to the medication.
Most doctors suggest combining psychiatric medications with behavioral therapy to improve the management of symptoms. Adults and children can learn strategies to control their symptoms through behavioral therapy. It can also help reduce stress and encourage healthier choices for lifestyle.
ADHD medications aren't able to treat ADHD however they can help improve the quality of life. Many studies have shown that when stimulants are used along with other treatment methods like parent training and counseling, they can result in improved control of symptoms.
Medications for adults with ADHD are different from the ones used for children, and the dosages are higher. It can take a long time to determine the best dosage and medication to reduce symptoms with the lowest amount of adverse side consequences. Doctors prescribe a variety of medications during the first few weeks of treatment to determine which is best for each individual patient.
Non-stimulant ADHD drugs take longer to begin working and aren't as long-lasting as stimulants, however they can still be helpful for certain individuals. These medications are effective by increasing the amount of a substance in the brain that is known as norepinephrine. Norepinephrine enhances concentration and controls impulses. The medications that increase norepinephrine include atomoxetine, (Strattera) and the long-acting beta agonists such as the clonidine chloride (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv). These are not controlled substances, so they have a lower potential for abuse than stimulants.
If ADHD medication doesn't work or causes serious side effects, psychiatric drugs might be prescribed. Your doctor might recommend tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) or nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor) to treat anxiety and depression that may sometimes be associated with ADHD. These medications also decrease the activity of the brain's natural chemicals, but they don't have as powerful an impact on blood pressure and heart rate as stimulants do. They are often used in conjunction with stimulants to treat ADHD because they offer the added benefit of helping increase attention and focus.