ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants work to boost the levels of two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. adhd anxiety medication and methylphenidate belong to the stimulants.
Tricyclics, an older class of antidepressants, are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. These medications can cause serious negative side effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them when stimulants don't perform or cause unacceptable symptoms.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medications for treating ADHD in adults and children. They increase the amount of dopamine that is present in your brain. This improves concentration, decreases fatigue, and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity for the majority of people who use these drugs. Around 70% to 80 percent of those with ADHD can benefit from stimulants. These medications aren't habit-forming in the doses used to treat ADHD however, they could be a source for abuse and addiction. Those with a history or addiction to alcohol or drugs, or those who come from a family of 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 drugs and are preferred by the majority of insurance companies. Certain of these medications are available as extended-release tablets which you can take once each week for up to 16 hrs. This can result in fewer "ups-and-downs" of symptoms. This is especially helpful for children.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) begin to work in 30 to 45 minutes. They last approximately four hours. They can be taken at least three times per day. They are usually the first medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these are available as chewable tablets, liquid or a patch to be placed on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants can last for as long as 16 hours and are taken every day in the morning. They can prevent the peak in effectiveness that occur when short-acting stimulation wears off which can result in extreme hunger and a lack of energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants also supplement them with a small amount of immediate-release medication to get through late evening and afternoon.
There are a number of possible side effects of taking stimulants to treat ADHD such as stomachaches, headaches, nervousness as well as loss of appetite and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are moderate to mild and go away after some time as your body adjusts. Consult your physician when the side effects become severe or don't disappear after several weeks.
Non-stimulants
There's a set of medications that is sometimes used to treat ADHD but they're not FDA-approved for this use. These are referred to as 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 can still cause insomnia, agitation, or anxiety.
The best method to determine the best medication for you or your child is to talk with your doctor, who can help you weigh the advantages and risks of each option. Your doctor will look at your medical history as well as the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other conditions or illnesses you have. They'll also look at how each medication affects you or your child, and how well it integrates with other treatments. You'll need to inform your doctor about any food, beverages or supplements that you or your child take and if you're taking any other prescription or over-the counter medications, including antidepressants.