How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medical treatments can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine that is found in the brain.
Children suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants.
They come in short- and long-acting dosages. content are more effective and last for 8-12 hours. They must be taken only once a day. They minimize the rebound effect, which is when symptoms return, and can be worsening, as the drug wears down.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used type of prescription medicine that healthcare providers utilize 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 may cause adverse effects, particularly when they are used for a long duration. Discuss with your doctor what you can expect from these drugs, including changes in appetite, mood and heart rate as well as how they affect your sleep.
If you are taking any stimulant medication for prolonged periods of time, you may be at risk of developing addiction or misuse. Addiction is when you feel like you are unable to resist the urge to take a stimulant medication even if it causes adverse effects. The signs of addiction include taking more than your doctor suggests, feeling dependent on a drug or experiencing negative adverse effects.
Abuse of stimulant medications can cause other health problems like depression or suicidal thoughts. You should immediately report to the police if you suspect someone you know is using stimulant medications to harm themselves or others.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are two of the most frequently used stimulants to treat ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. They are usually taken once or twice daily.
The amphetamines with a longer-acting action perform better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They can last for anywhere from six to eight hours and aid you in getting through your day with less "ups" and"downs.
It is typical to use extended-release stimulants in conjunction with an immediate-release medication during the mid-to late afternoon. This is an excellent option should ADHD symptoms begin to manifest late in the day, or if the medication stops working too quickly.
To aid you in falling asleep it is recommended to take a small amount of an effective stimulant that lasts for a long time can be taken prior to bedtime. It isn't advised to take this medicine with a full stomach since it may cause a decline in energy and may cause you to sleep poorly.
In the initial stages of treatment, insomnia is a relatively common side effect associated with stimulants. It is possible to reduce this by not taking the medication prior to the time of bed and ensuring that you get enough sleep every night.
Anxiety is another common reaction to stimulants. It can range from moderate to severe and could cause tics. These are sudden movements or sound like eye blinking, throat clearing, or throat clearing. It can also cause a worsening of an existing depression or bipolar disorder.
Changes in blood pressure and heart rate are also possible, but the effects are usually mild. If you are beginning to use stimulants to treat ADHD, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart function.
Insomnia can also be a result of ADHD medication. This can be less of a problem when you begin taking stimulants along with a prescribed sleep aid, or by using a relaxing or meditation method prior to going to bed.