How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medicines can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, in the brain.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication prescribed for children with ADHD.
You can choose between the short- or long-acting doses. They are recommended to take longer-acting doses, as they last 8-12 hours and are required to be taken just once a day. They also lessen the rebound effect, which is when symptoms can return, and are often more severe than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medication providers typically prescribe stimulants. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, which are known as norepinephrine and dopamine. This helps you concentrate and pay attention.
The risk of experiencing side effects is high particularly if stimulants are used for a prolonged period of time. Talk to your doctor about what to expect while taking these medications, including possible changes in mood, appetite and heart rate as well as how they affect your sleep.
If you are taking a stimulant medication for long periods of time, you may be at risk of becoming addicted or abuse. Addiction occurs when you are unable to manage your urge to take an item, even if it has harmful side effects. Addiction may manifest as a need to take more than what your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on the drug.
Use of stimulant medicines can also lead to other health issues like depression and suicidal thoughts. If you suspect you or someone you know may be taking these drugs to harm themselves or others, call your local police or other authorities right away.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are among the most frequently used stimulants for treating ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. They are typically taken once or twice a day.
The extended-release versions of amphetamines are more effective than their short-acting counterparts. They can last for anywhere from six to eight hours, and aid you in getting through your day with fewer "ups" and"downs.
It is common to use extended-release stimulants in conjunction with an immediate-release drug in the mid-to late afternoon. This is a good choice in the event that ADHD symptoms begin to show up late in the daytime or if the medication stops working too early.
To help you sleep A small dose of a long-acting stimulant can be taken prior to bedtime. It's not recommended to consume this medicine with a full stomach, as it can cause a decline in energy and may make you sleepy.
In the beginning of treatment, insomnia is a fairly common side effect associated with stimulants. This can be reduced by not taking the medication before the time of bed and getting enough sleep every night.
Anxiety is a common adverse effect of stimulants. best adhd medication for adults can be either severe or mild, and it can cause tics. These are sudden movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also exacerbate an existing depression or bipolar disorder.
Changes in blood pressure and heart rate are also possible, but these effects are typically minor. Your doctor can prescribe a medication to lower your blood pressure and improve the function of your heart when you begin using stimulants for ADHD.
Insomnia is a possible result of ADHD medication. It's less of a concern when you begin to take stimulants in conjunction with a prescribed sleep aid, or by using a relaxation or meditation technique prior to going to sleep.