Medications For ADHD
The most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They boost attention speed and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, adhd sleep medication can cause side effects such as headaches, stomach upsets and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates make up the two major groups of stimulants. They are available in liquid or chewable form, and as short-acting intermediate-acting or longer-acting medications.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which increase concentration and attention. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release versions. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines and dextroamphetamine (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects and have a high potential for abuse. These medications should be taken with a physician's approval. A natural supplement called L-tyrosine could also boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels, but it should not be taken without a doctor's supervision.
The most effective treatments mix medications, therapy as well as behavioral changes and training for skills. This approach is often described as multimodal therapy. The drugs can help alleviate symptoms in adults and children but don't cure the condition. They must be taken regularly to reap the maximum benefits. In a lot of cases the medication will need to be adjusted to find the lowest possible dose that effectively manages symptoms while causing the fewest side negative effects.
Some people feel relief from their symptoms when they take a stimulant early in the morning and then supplement with an extended-release drug in late afternoon or in the evening. This can help avoid a "crash" when the medication wears off, which can cause short-lasting fatigue and a bad mood.
In the last few decades, amphetamines have been widely abused for non-medical purposes particularly by truck drivers, athletes and students to keep them awake and improve performance. These drugs are very fast acting and produce feelings of euphoria as well as energy. They can be snorted, injected, or taken in the form of a smoke. Some of these drugs are addictive.
The FDA has approved atomoxetine also known as Vyvanse (Vyvanse) and guanfacine (also known as Fastin (Guanfacine), to treat adults with ADHD. These are in a class of drugs known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists, which were originally developed to lower blood pressure. These drugs are effective in treating ADHD due to their a calming affect and reduce hyperactivity and aggression. These medicines have a low chance of serious side effects, but they can raise blood pressure and heart rate and can interact with some prescription or over-the counter medications.
Other medications that treat ADHD include the clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. They can help control ADHD symptoms in some individuals, but they are frequently prescribed when stimulants don't provide enough relief or cause unpleasant side effects. Tricyclic antidepressants imipramine as well as nortriptyline are especially effective in certain situations, but have been linked to challenging negative side effects, such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people who have ADHD don't need to take medication, however they can benefit from learning healthy habits of living and coping. Some adults with mild to moderate symptoms can manage symptoms through diet and physical activity and others require the assistance of a therapist. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a kind of therapy in which you learn skills to change the way people think and behave. Other self-help treatments like diet modifications and supplements can be helpful, but should not be attempted without medical advice.