ADHD Medication List
The most popular ADHD medications are stimulant drugs such as Adderall Vyvanse Ritalin Concerta. They increase the levels brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine to improve focus and decrease hyperactivity.
These medicines can cause adverse reactions. Your health care provider will help find the right dosage and medication that will work best for you or your child.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD. They boost the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which help people to pay attention and think clearly. They also help people stay motivated. In the majority of cases, 80% or more of children suffering from ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms after the doctor prescribes the correct stimulant medication. The stimulants are available by mouth, patch or via injection. Certain people with ADHD take nonstimulant medication to help alleviate their symptoms. It takes time to find the right dosage, medication and schedule for each person with ADHD.
The first stimulant medication a person suffering from ADHD uses may not be effective or cause unpleasant adverse effects. If symptoms return or if a person does not see improvement after a few weeks, the doctor may try another medication.
The medication is only available with a prescription from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. They aren't available over-the-counter (OTC). It is not recommended that you take vitamins or supplements that claim to treat ADHD. They may interfere with your prescription.
There are many kinds of stimulant medications, such as amphetamines, such as Adderall and Ritalin, dextroamphetamines like Dexedrine and methylphenidates similar to Ritalin. These medications are generally available as pills, however some also come in patches, liquids or chewable tablets. The doctor may recommend extended-release or long-acting medications to limit the risk of misuse. These medications build up slowly in the bloodstream and fade slowly. This reduces the symptoms of "the rebound effect," which is when a person's mood and energy drop when their medication wears off.
These medicines typically begin to act within 30-60 minutes and their effects last for 3-4 hours. The majority of people take them two or three times a day.
Short-acting stimulants can trigger the sensation of a "crash" that can make people feel irritable or tired and hungry. Some people suffering from ADHD suffer from tics. These are repetitive sounds or movements that include throat clearing or blinking of the eyes. These tics aren't caused by the medication but can get worse if it is stopped.
The risk of addiction or abuse is minimal with any stimulant. However, this is not likely to happen in the small doses prescribed to treat ADHD. The risk is higher for adolescents and young adults, and may be greater for those with an addiction history or mental illness.
The majority of stimulants cause adverse effects like stomach upset, headaches, and increased heart rate. adhd medication for adults uk go away after a few days of taking the medication. If they don't consult your physician.
People with ADHD should tell their doctor when they have a history of depression or anxiety, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a heart condition or high blood pressure. They should also tell their doctor if they use any other medications or caffeine drinks, as they may interfere with the medication's effectiveness. They should also inform their doctor whether they have an alcoholism family history or any other mental health issues.