Medications For ADHD
The most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in improving concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. But adhd otc medication can have negative side effects like headaches, stomach upsets and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two main classes of stimulants. They are available in chewable or liquid form, as well as in short-acting, intermediate-acting, or long-acting medications.
Stimulants
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves focus and attention. They come in immediate-release and extended-release versions. The most popular stimulants are methylphenidate, amphetamines, and dextroamphetamines (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects and have an extremely high risk of abuse. These drugs should only be taken with a doctor's approval. A natural supplement called L-tyrosine can also increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, however, it shouldn't be taken without a physician's supervision.
The most effective treatments include medication, therapy, behavior changes and skills training. This method is often called multimodal treatment. The medications can improve symptoms for children and adults but they do not cure the disease. To get the most effective results, they must be taken regularly. In many instances, the medication will need to adjusted to find the dosage that is effective in controlling symptoms while causing minimal side effects.
Some people feel relief from their symptoms if they take a stimulant in morning and then supplement with an extended-release medication in the in the afternoon or evening. This can help prevent a "crash" which could cause short-term fatigue and a bad attitude.
During the past few decades, amphetamines have been widely abused for non-medical purposes in particular by truck drivers, athletes and students to stay awake and to enhance performance. These substances are extremely quick to take effect and give feelings of euphoria as well as energy. These drugs 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 medications known as alpha-2 adrenergic Agonists, which were initially created to lower blood pressure. These drugs are effective in treating ADHD because they have a calming affect and reduce the intensity of hyperactivity and aggression. These medications are safe however they can trigger serious negative side effects. They can also raise blood pressure and heart rate.
Clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. They can be helpful in controlling ADHD symptoms in certain individuals, but they are frequently prescribed when stimulants don't offer enough relief or have unpleasant adverse effects. Tricyclic antidepressants imipramine as well as nortriptyline have been proven to be effective in some cases however, they are also associated with a variety of adverse reactions such as anxiety.
Treatment Options for ADHD
Many people who suffer from ADHD do not need to use medications, although they may benefit from developing healthy ways of life and coping strategies. A few adults who have mild or moderate symptoms can manage their symptoms by eating a healthy exercise and diet, whereas others may need the support of therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a kind of therapy that teaches methods to change the way people think and behave. Other self-help strategies, such as dietary changes and supplements, can be beneficial but should only be used under the guidance of a physician.