ADHD Medication
ADHD medications can alleviate many symptoms of the disorder, but they can't solve it. Typically your doctor will prescribe medication along with counseling, behavior therapy and education services.
The most common medication prescribed for ADHD is stimulant drugs. They function by increasing and balancing brain chemicals that regulate attention and behavior. They include methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta (and amphetamines such as Dexedrine).
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is among the most extensively researched stimulant drugs to treat ADHD. It has been shown to be safe and effective for children as well as adults. It is available in a variety of formulations including tablets, liquid chewable tablets, as well as extended-release capsules. It is also available in a single-isomer version that only contains right-handed molecules and not left-handed ones. (Brand name Focalin XR; Generic name dexmethylphenidate-ER).
Certain people may experience side-effects from methylphenidate such as headaches and loss of appetite. These side effects are usually mild and go away as they get used to the medication. Talk to your doctor if the adverse reactions persist. They may suggest changing your dosage or prescribe another medication.
In certain instances, methylphenidate can cause mood changes, for example, feeling aggressive or depressed. This isn't common but it could be serious for people suffering from mental illness such as bipolar disorder. In rare cases methylphenidate could cause a manic episode for those with bipolar disorder.
Methylphenidate increases blood pressure and heart rate, which is bad for those with heart problems. Anyone who has a history of heart problems that are structural should stay away from the drug, especially children and young adults. Also, it should not be used by those who suffer from Phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that requires you are required to adhere to an incredibly low-protein diet). Consult your physician prior to taking this medication if you are suffering from a heart condition.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is an FDA-approved drug is used to treat attention hyperactivity disorder in adults and children. It is also an effective treatment for binge eating disorder (BED). It is a central nervous system stimulant that increases the activity of specific regions of the brain. It is available through prescription only.
When combined with other medications like anticholinergics and sedatives, the drug can cause serious side-effects. This combination may increase the risk of seizures and heart issues. It is also a risk when driving or operating machinery. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Vyvanse and avoid driving until you know the effects it has on you. If you have to dispose of your medication, you can use an online program for taking back your medicine or mix it with a nontoxic substance such as cat litter or dirt and dispose of it in household trash.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have demonstrated that it is just as effective as methylphenidate, a long-acting drug and Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant. A recent European study also found that lisdexamfetamine is even more efficient than the methylphenidate.
Studies on lisdexamfetamine have shown that it improves performance both in classroom and work environments. Brown and co37 conducted a brief open-label trial which showed significant improvements in a mock workplace. Wigal et al38 conducted a study that revealed significant improvements in performance when tested on a permanent Product Measure of Performance.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is different from stimulants like Ritalin, Adderall (dextroamphetamine), and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). It is not a centrally controlled system stimulant but a noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor. Noradrenaline is a chemical found in the brain that transmits messages from one nerve to another is an organic chemical. Noradrenaline is recycled by nerve endings after sending a message. Atomoxetine stops this recycling and increases levels of active noradrenaline within the brain. This can improve attention and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The capsules are available in oral form. The medication is typically given once or twice daily but it is also possible to give more frequently if required. It is essential to follow the doctor's prescriptions particularly when you are first starting treatment. Take the medicine after food and drink plenty of water. Do not mix it with hot drinks or other medicines, unless instructed otherwise.
Studies show that atomoxetine helps improve ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents but it is not as effective than dexamfetamine and methylphenidate. It's also less effective than non-stimulant medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants as well as Clonidine. Atomoxetine can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and fainting. To avoid this, you should not get up too quickly from a lying position. Also, avoid smoking cigarettes and alcohol when taking this medication. You should also talk to your doctor about the best diet that you or your child could follow.
Adderall
Adderall is an stimulant for the central nervous system that helps to increase alertness and focus. It works by increasing the levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine in the brain. Dopamine reinforces positive behaviors while norepinephrine regulates blood pressure, heart rate, and blood vessels.
Adderall does not cause high when taken in the dosage that is recommended by your physician. However, it can trigger side effects such as dry mouth and insomnia. If your child is experiencing these symptoms, talk with their doctor. The doctor may be able to change the dose or switch medications.
Stimulant medication is a popular treatment of ADHD but they may cause problems for certain children. These issues can range from school-related problems to social problems. Teens also use stimulants to get a buzz. They can cause addiction. Most of these problems are preventable.
A few children with ADHD are unable to sleep at night. The medication can help them sleep better. I Am Psychiatry is important to restrict the use of screens and caffeine prior to the time of bed. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Adderall is a drug that contains amphetamine which is a controlled substance. It can result in false positives on tests for drug screening. Therefore, it's crucial to provide this information when you play or work in sports. Adderall's duration in the body may vary from individual to individual. It is recommended to avoid taking it for two to four days prior to your next test.
Dexedrine
Dexedrine, a potent stimulant, affects the central nervous systems. It works like other ADHD medications to increase the brain's neurotransmitters, reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, enhancing listening skills, and transforming how people feel. It is available in tablets that are short-acting and extended-release capsules (Dexedrine Spansule). It is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it is able to cause addiction. It also increases the heart rate and blood pressure. If this happens, inform your doctor right away.
Many children with ADHD have side effects while taking stimulant medication. They may develop an upset stomach, have difficulty sleeping, or appear anxious or upset. These side effects can be minimized or eliminated by altering the dosage of the formula, formulation, or type of medication.
Medicines aren't able to cure ADHD, but they can aid in improving the ability of children to concentrate and manage their emotions. They can also help improve their performance at school. However, ADHD symptoms will return when the medication is stopped. You must take them exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
The effects of stimulants can increase the heart rate in certain people, so doctors should monitor the blood pressure and heart rate. They can also cause sleep issues and changes in appetite. The best approach to treat ADHD is to combine therapy, medication and training. Children who receive treatment for ADHD tend to have lower full-scale IQs than those without it. They are more likely than other children to require special education or remedial academic assistance and to be slower to complete high school. They are also more likely to drop out of college.
Ritalin
Ritalin the first drug used to treat ADHD in children, was created with children in kindergarten and 1st grade in mind. They only needed it for three or four hour periods each day. As children age and become less able to concentrate and require longer-lasting medication. There are medicines that behave like stimulants but last for as long as 12 hours. These are referred to as "methylphenidates" and they boost two chemicals that affect the brain's concentration: dopamine, and norepinephrine. The medications come in various forms, including pills that can be swallowed, chewed or dissolved, liquids that are squeezed into the mouth, and a patch that adheres to the skin, similar to the band-aid.
The medication does not cure ADHD but it can aid in staying focused and less distracted at school or work. It also makes it easier to listen and follow directions. However, it could cause side effects such as trouble sleeping, appetite problems and abdominal pain. It can also worsen symptoms of anxiety, agitation or psychosis. It is essential to consult a doctor right away when you experience any of these symptoms.
The DEA classifies stimulant medicines as Schedule II drugs because they are abused. Only available with a doctor's prescription, they should be kept away from youngsters and adults who could use them. Atomoxetine, guanfacine and other Schedule II drugs have fewer side-effects than stimulants.