How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
The use of medications can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine that is found in the brain.
Stimulants are the main medication prescribed to children suffering from ADHD.
You can select between short- or long-acting doses. The longer-acting ones are more popular, as they last 8-12 hours and should be taken only one time per day. They can reduce the rebound effect which occurs when the symptoms return, often worsening as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of prescription medication that healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, called dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps you concentrate and pay attention.
However, stimulants can also cause side effects, especially when used for long duration. Discuss with your doctor the possible side effects of these drugs, such as changes in mood, appetite and heart rate, as well as how they affect your sleep.
If Iam Psychiatry are taking an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you could be at risk of developing addiction or abuse. Addiction is the feeling that you are unable to resist the urge to use the drug, even though it causes harmful side effects. Addiction may be a sign of a desire to take more than your doctor suggests or being dependent on the substance.
Other health issues that may be caused by the use of stimulant drugs include suicidal ideas and depression. If you suspect that you or someone you know could be using these drugs to harm them or others, please contact your local police station or other authorities immediately.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are two of the most commonly used stimulants used to treat ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. These medicines are typically taken daily, either once or twice.
The extended-release versions of amphetamines are more effective than short-acting counterparts. They can last anywhere from six to eight hours and aid you in getting through your day without having to worry about "ups" and"downs.
It is typical to use extended-release stimulants along with immediate-release medications in the mid-to-late afternoon. This is a good option in the event that ADHD symptoms appear late in the daytime or if the medication stops working too early.
To help you sleep, a small dose of an effective stimulant that lasts for a long time can be taken at bedtime. It is not recommended to take this medication when you're not hungry. It could cause sleep problems and energy loss.
During the early phases of treatment, insomnia can be an almost common side effect that occurs with stimulants. This can be minimized by not taking the medication before bed and sleeping enough on a regular basis.
Anxiety is another typical reaction to stimulants. It can range from mild to extreme and may cause tics. These are sudden sounds or movements like eye blinking, throat clearing or throat clearing. It can also worsen the effects of depression and bipolar disorder.
Although changes in blood pressure and heart beat could occur, they are not usually significant. Your doctor may prescribe an medication to lower your blood pressure and improve your heart function when you begin using stimulants for ADHD.
Insomnia is a possible negative side effect of ADHD medication. It's less of a problem when you start to take stimulants that come with a prescription sleep aid or by using a relaxation or meditation method prior to going to sleep.