ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One
Finding the best ADHD medicine requires a lot of trial and error. There are many factors that affect the effectiveness of the medication such as individual metabolism, side effects and how a drug interacts with other medications and supplements.
Stimulants can take a while to take effect however they can aid in improving attention, focus and impulsivity. They also increase levels of brain chemicals like dopamine and epinephrine.
Stimulants
Stimulants, also called uppers, speed up the body's functions and make people feel more alert. The stimulants include caffeine (a substance that is frequently used to keep you awake and alert) amphetamines and dextroamphetamines (Adderall and Vyvanse) and lisdexafetamine and prescription drugs like Concerta, methylphenidate Adderall and Vyvanse. These stimulants can also be illegal substances such as crystal meth, Cocaine, and bath salts (synthetic catshinones) that are frequently used by young people. These drugs, when prescribed by a physician have been proven to help improve ADHD symptoms and functioning in those who suffer from the disorder.
When used correctly prescribed stimulants are generally safe. However, they could cause adverse reactions such as insomnia, nervousness and headaches as well as stomach upsets, tremors, agitation or shakiness, rapid pulse, confusion, and tremors. There is also a significant chance of addiction and abuse. If taken in higher-than-prescribed doses or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to overdose and death.
Since the past 30 years, methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine and other prescription stimulants have been available as liquids, pills as chewable tablets, chewable tablets and skin patches. The medications, known by their generic names and brand names such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Metadate, work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels within the brain. They can also help improve focus, behavior, and self-discipline. These medications are available in immediate-release and extended-release forms.
Viloxazine and Atomoxetine, both under the brand name Qelbree are stimulant drugs that are available over-the-counter. These are in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs. They function by blocking the actions of a certain neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, that is found in the brain. They are not able to treat symptoms of ADHD however they can be beneficial in conjunction with other treatments such as nonstimulant medication or behavioral therapy.
Nonstimulant medicines
FDA has approved a variety of non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD. They are generally more convenient to use and have less negative effects than stimulant drugs. They do not work as quickly as stimulants do, however they may take several weeks before they begin working. They can also be less addictive than stimulant drugs, and some doctors even suggest them as a first option for adults.
Medications that are not considered stimulants include Clonidine (brand name Zanex) and alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists like Guanfacine (brand name Tenex). These drugs are typically prescribed "off-label" which means that the FDA has not endorsed for use in treating ADHD. However, most effective adhd medication for adults can be helpful in decreasing ADHD symptoms through acting as a sedative and slowing down the activity of certain nerve cells in the brain.
Treatment for ADHD also includes behavioral education and other forms of therapy for behavioral disorders. Adults and children suffering from ADHD can benefit from behavioral training to learn new ways of managing their symptoms, improve social skills, and develop strategies for managing anger and conflict. These treatments are most effective for younger children or those who have milder symptoms. However, they are not always successful in older children and adults who have more severe ADHD symptoms.