How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medicines can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount of an neurotransmitter known as norepinephrine within the brain.
Children with ADHD are often prescribed stimulants.
You can choose between short- and long-acting dosages. The longer-acting ones are more popular because they last between 8 and 12 hours and need to be taken only one time per day. They also lessen the rebound effect, where symptoms return, usually more than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medical professionals typically prescribe stimulants. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, which are known as norepinephrine and dopamine. This helps you focus and pay attention.
However, stimulants may cause adverse effects, particularly when used for a long period of. Discuss with your doctor the potential side effects of these drugs, such as changes in mood, appetite, heart rate, and how they affect your sleep.
If you are taking any stimulant medication for prolonged periods of time, you may be at risk of developing an addiction or misuse. Addiction occurs when you feel you can't control your desire to take an item, even if it causes negative side effects. Addiction may be a sign of a desire to take more than your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on the substance.
Other health issues that could be caused by the use of stimulant medications include depression and suicidal ideation. If you think you or someone you know might be taking these medications to harm themselves or others, call your local police or any other authorities immediately.
Some of the most common stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidate (brand-name medication Ritalin, Concerta or Dexamphetamine). 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 amphetamines with longer-acting effects work better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last between six to eight hours and assist you in navigating your day with less "ups" and downs.
Extended-release stimulants can be combined with an immediate-release drug in the afternoon. This is helpful should you notice that your ADHD symptoms begin to manifest late in the day , or if you experience irritability due to the medication's wear off in the early hours of.
A small dose of a stimulant that acts long-term at bedtime is also an option to aid in your sleep. It isn't advised to take this medicine on an empty stomach, as it can cause a decrease in energy and result in a poor sleep.
Insomnia is a frequent reaction to stimulants in the beginning stages of treatment. It can be reduced by not taking the medicine close to bedtime and by getting enough sleep on a regular basis.
Anxiety is another typical adverse effect of stimulants. link webpage can be either severe or mild and may cause tics, which are uncontrollable movements or sounds, like eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also worsen an existing depression or bipolar disorder.
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure can also occur, although these effects are usually minor. Your doctor can prescribe medications to lower your blood pressure and improve your heart function when you start using stimulants for ADHD.
ADHD medication can also trigger insomnia. It's less of a problem when you start to take stimulants that come with a prescribed sleep aid, or by using a relaxing or meditation method prior to going to bed.