ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two brain chemicals. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Tricyclics, an older class of antidepressants, are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. However, these drugs can have serious side effects, so doctors typically only recommend them when stimulants don't perform or cause uncontrollable side effects.
Stimulants
The most popular medication used to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They help by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. Most people who take these drugs find that they boost their concentration, reduce fatigue, and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. About 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from stimulants. They don't turn into a habit when taken in the doses that are prescribed to treat ADHD. However they are able to be abused and lead to addiction. People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse or an extended family history of substance abuse or mental health issues may be at higher risk for this.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulants in treating ADHD. Generics are less expensive than brand name drugs and are favored by a majority of insurance companies. Certain are also available as extended-release tablets that you take once a day and last for up to 16 hours. This could result in less "ups and downs" of symptoms, which can be especially helpful for school-aged children.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes and generally last for around four hours. You can take them two or three times a day. They are usually the first medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these are available as chewable tablets, liquids or a patch that goes on the skin.
Intermediate and long-acting stimulants are typically taken at least once per day in the morning and can last up to 16 hours. They can prevent the peak in effectiveness that may occur after the short-acting stimulation has slowed down, which can lead to extreme hunger and a lack of energy. Many people who take long-acting stimulants supplement them with a small amount of immediate-release medications to help them get through the late afternoon and evening.
There are a variety of possible side effects of using stimulants to treat ADHD, including headaches, stomachaches, nervousness as well as loss of appetite and sleepiness. Most of these side effects are moderate to mild and will disappear after several weeks as your body adjusts. Talk to your doctor when the side effects become severe or don't disappear after some weeks.
Non-stimulants
There's a set of medications that is sometimes used to treat ADHD however they aren't FDA-approved for this use. These medications are called non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications are less likely to be misused than stimulants, but may still cause insomnia, agitation, or anxiety.
Talk to your doctor about how you assess the risks and benefits of each medication option. Your doctor will consider your medical history, the severity of your symptoms, and any other illnesses or conditions you suffer from. adhd medication adults uk 'll also examine how each medication affects you or your child, and how well it works with other treatments. You'll need to tell your doctor about any food drinks, supplements or foods you or your child consumes and whether you're taking other prescription or over-the counter medications including antidepressants.