ADHD Medications
The first step is to use stimulants. medicine doctors try to control symptoms. They boost the levels of two chemical messengers within the brain called norepinephrine and dopamine.
The most frequently used stimulants are the methylphenidate (branded Ritalin and Concerta) and lisdexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They can reduce appetite and cause weight loss in children. They also raise blood pressure and heart rate.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin) is the most frequently used stimulant medication to treat ADHD in children and adults. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances within the brain. It is available in liquid, chewable tablet or capsule forms. The long-acting tablet and oral disintegrating tablets provide some of the medication right away, while the capsule with long-release releases an ongoing dose over time. You should not consume alcohol while taking these drugs.
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate trigger parts of the brain that are underactive when people suffer from ADHD such as the parts that are involved in concentration. They increase concentration and make it easier to do things to listen, follow instructions, and paying attention. These medicines can help reduce physical aggression as well as other antisocial behaviors.
Studies of methylphenidate's effect on the brain have shown that it increases levels of dopamine and noradrenaline in the prefrontal cortex and the nucleus accumbens. It does not however bind to the serotonin transporter and therefore does not affect serotonin levels. This mechanism of action is believed to be the reason methylphenidate decreases symptoms of ADHD.
Methylphenidate is best taken as a part of a complete treatment program for ADHD that includes counseling and specialized educational programs. It can cause unwanted effects, such as headaches and stomachaches. It is usually not recommended for pregnant women. If the benefits of the medication are greater than the risk, it could be taken during pregnancy. Your doctor will offer guidance.
Methylphenidate is a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high risk of abuse and addiction. It is also an antagonist of the central nervous system and raise blood pressure and heart rate in certain people. These effects can be dangerous for those suffering from medical conditions that affect how the body uses blood-pressure and heart rate-lowering drugs, such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (fatty liver disease) or a history of stroke or heart attack. Methylphenidate could trigger allergic reactions in some people. Tell your doctor if you have allergies. They might be able to prescribe a medication that doesn't cause these reactions.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines, which are a type of psychostimulant are used to treat ADHD. They help by increasing levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. This improves cognitive functioning and motivational behavior. They also aid in treating narcolepsy, a condition which is characterized by excessive sleeping. Amphetamines are readily available and can be purchased over the counter or on prescription from a doctor. Children who aren't responding to methylphenidate - the first option for treating ADHD in America is sometimes prescribed amphetamines.
In a recent Cochrane review the researchers examined seven randomized controlled trials of amphetamines (dextroamphetamine, Lisdexamfetamine [Vyvanse] or mixed amphetamine salts) for children and adolescents with ADHD. The results showed that amphetamines can be superior to placebo in reducing severity of primary ADHD symptoms. Most of the studies were biased. This makes it difficult to establish whether the differences found between various amphetamines are genuine.
Different doses of the drug were studied and no differences were found between immediate- and sustained-release formulations. The authors also examined the effects of changing the length of time taken daily and, again, there was no difference. The researchers also examined whether the combination of l-amphetamine and d-amphetamine was more effective than d'amphetamine on its own, which is what is the main ingredient in Adderall. The authors found that d-amphetamine by itself was not as efficient as the combination.
The authors concluded that their validity externally was limited by the brief duration of the research as well as the restrictive inclusion criteria. It would be beneficial to conduct longitudinal RCTs that have longer time frames for follow-up and objective outcomes that cannot be affected if a blinding failure occurs. In addition future RCTs should be considered using multiple comparator drugs in order to enhance the effectiveness of their findings.
Current guidelines recommend lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate as the primary treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. If the six-week study of these medications does not bring about the desired results doctors can change to dexamfetamine standard, which breaks down faster into damphetamine, and requires more frequent use. Atomoxetine can be used in the event that dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine do not offer enough benefit to the patient.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant drugs ease ADHD symptoms in 70 - the 80% of children and adults who take these drugs. These drugs cut down on hyperactivity, interruptions fidgeting, fumbling and other disruptive behaviors, while improving concentration, academic performance, and social skills. The doctor treating your child may prescribe them as the first treatment, or they could be utilized alongside other therapies like behavioral therapy. The medication is available in liquids, pills, or patches that are sprayed on the skin. When your child begins taking these medications, your healthcare professional will monitor their bodily responses in order to determine the correct dose. They will also monitor for any adverse effects.
Long-acting stimulants ease symptoms all day long without the need to retake dosages. They feature a delayed-release element which means that the medication is absorbed into the body at different times, providing continuous coverage for up to 8 hours. They also have a lower risk for misuse and diversion than short-acting stimulants.
The medications that aid people suffering from ADHD improve their concentration, attention, and impulsivity generally are classified into two drug classes: methylphenidates or amphetamines. The medication affects the levels of dopamine in the brain. The full effect of these drugs can last up to a week. Your doctor may start you on a low dosage and gradually increase it.
non stimulant adhd medication of stimulant your child takes depends on a range of factors including weight, age and whether or your child is allergic to the medication or other substances. Inform your doctor if your child is taking any other OTC or prescription medications or vitamins, as well as supplements. Certain medications can have dangerous side effects when taken with other substances. Your doctor should be aware of the medications you and your child are taking.
Side effects of stimulant medications include insomnia, loss of appetite and headaches. Most of these side effects go away after a few weeks or a few months, but you should contact your doctor if they aren't. You might be able to reduce adverse effects by taking your medication with food, or by altering the dosage.
Short-acting stimulants
If you or your child has ADHD There's a good chance that medication can help. Studies show that around 70%-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD are improved by taking ADHD medication. These medications ease symptoms such as excessive stimulation, interruptions, fidgeting, and difficulty staying focused or completing tasks. These people have less trouble at home and school and have more stable relationships.
Stimulants alter levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. Most doctors suggest stimulants as the first treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. Methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (brand name Adderall) are two of the most frequently prescribed stimulants. Doctors can also prescribe extended release forms of these medications which last between six and 16 hours. You can take them once in the morning, or at various times throughout the day to avoid peak and troughs in your blood levels.
You or your child might need to test different medications and dosages before you discover the right one. Some of the side effects include headaches, stomachaches, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. These are the most common side effects when a new medication is introduced or the dosage is raised. They usually disappear with time as the body adjusts to the medication.
Although all medications can cause negative side effects, the majority of people don't experience them often or at all. If you or your child have an adverse reaction consult your doctor right away.
In some instances the person suffering from ADHD does not need stimulant medications. This is especially the case if they have competent coping skills or are able to organize their lives so that the ADHD medication is only utilized in certain situations where they require it.
Doctors might also consider nonstimulant ADHD medications for some people which include antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin). These do not have FDA approval to treat ADHD but they can be utilized "off label" to treat this condition. Nonstimulant medicines can cause less sedation and depression than stimulants, but may still cause some side effects such as insomnia or agitation.