How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be relieved by medication. This can increase the amount of a neurotransmitter known as Norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication prescribed for children with ADHD.
They come in long- and short-acting dosages. They are more efficient and last 8-12 hours. They must be taken only once a day. They reduce the rebound effect, which is when symptoms return, usually getting worse as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of prescription medicine that healthcare professionals use to treat ADHD. They work by increasing levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain known as dopamine and norepinephrine, which help you pay attention and remain focused.
The risk of experiencing side effects is high, especially if stimulants are taken for a prolonged period of time. Talk to your doctor about the possible adverse effects that could be caused by these medications, including changes in appetite, mood and heart rate, as well as how they affect your sleep.
If you use an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you could be at risk for addiction or abuse. https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/adult-adhd-medication/ is when you feel that you are unable to resist the urge to use a stimulant even if it comes with negative side effects. Addiction can be a sign of a desire to take more than your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on the substance.
Use of stimulant medicines can also cause other health problems including depression and suicidal thoughts. You should immediately inform the police if you suspect that someone you know is using stimulant medications to harm themselves or others.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are among the most commonly used stimulants for treating ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. These medicines are typically taken twice or once daily.
The amphetamines with a longer-acting action are more effective than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last between six to eight hours, and aid you in getting through your day with less "ups" and downs.
You may want to consider using extended-release stimulants in conjunction with an immediate-release drug in the late afternoon to mid afternoon. This is a great option if ADHD symptoms begin to manifest late in the daytime, or when the medication stops working too early.
To help you sleep, a small dose of an elongating stimulant may be taken before bed. You shouldn't take this medication even if you're not hungry. It could cause sleep problems and energy loss.
Sleepiness is a common adverse effect of stimulants in the beginning stages of treatment. This can be reduced by not taking the medication close to nighttime and sleeping enough every night.
Another side effect associated with stimulants is anxiety. It may be mild or serious and can cause tics, which are uncontrollable movements or sounds, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also worsen the symptoms of depression or bipolar disorder.
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure are also possible, but the effects are usually mild. If you start taking stimulants to treat ADHD, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart function.
ADHD medication can also cause insomnia. This problem can be alleviated if you take stimulants with prescription sleep aids , or using meditation or relaxation techniques prior going to bed.