ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Amphetamines and methylphenidate are among the stimulants.
Tricyclics, a more traditional class of antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. However, these drugs can have severe side effects, and doctors usually only recommend them if stimulants don't work or cause intolerable side effects.
Stimulants
The most popular medication used to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. These drugs are effective by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. People who take these drugs find that they increase their concentration, decrease fatigue, and lower impulsivity and hyperactivity. About 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from stimulants. These medications aren't habit-forming in the doses that are used to treat ADHD however they do have a potential for addiction and abuse. People who have a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol or those who come from an extended family with substance abuse or mental health issues may be more at risk.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates are the most frequently used stimulants for treating ADHD. Generics are less expensive than brand-name medications and are preferred by most insurance companies. Certain are also available as extended-release tablets which you take once a day and last for up to 16 hours. This can lead to fewer "ups-and-downs" of symptoms. This is especially beneficial for children.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants begin working within 30 to 45 minutes. They typically last for about four hours. They can be taken twice or three times daily. They are typically the first type of medication that your doctor prescribes. Certain of them are available as chewable tablets, liquid or patches that are placed on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants may last for as long as 16 hours, and are consumed every day in the morning. They can stop the peaks and dips in effectiveness that occur when short-acting stimulants lose their effectiveness which can result in extreme hunger and low energy. adhd medication and pregnancy who are taking long-acting stimulants may supplement them with a small amount of immediate-release medication in the afternoon and evening.
There are many possible side effects from taking stimulants to treat ADHD such as headaches, stomachaches, nervousness as well as loss of appetite and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are mild to moderate and go away after some time as your body adjusts. Consult your physician if the side effects are extreme or persist after some weeks.
Non-stimulants
These medications are called non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These drugs are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine and bupropion. The majority of these medications carry a lower risk for misuse than stimulants, but they could still cause anxiety, insomnia, or agitation.
Consult your doctor to help you assess the benefits and risks of each medication option. Your doctor will consider your medical history, symptoms and any other conditions or illnesses you may have. They'll also examine how each medication affects you or your child, and how it interacts with other treatments. You must inform your doctor about any supplements, foods, or beverages that you or your child consume in addition to any prescription or over-the-counter medication you're taking, including antidepressants.