ADHD Medications For Adults and Children
These medications can help people suffering from ADHD feel more calm, concentrate better, and become less impulsive. They're not a cure for ADHD but they can improve your or your child's quality of life.
Adults suffering from ADHD are often prescribed stimulants. They boost dopamine levels and improve concentration.
Doctors prescribe long-acting stimulants in order to decrease the risk of misuse and relapse symptoms.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that increase the activity of certain brain chemicals. They can help those with ADHD remain focused and productive. They also reduce anger and irritability, as well as increase motivation and mood. Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most frequently prescribed stimulants used to treat ADHD. These drugs are available in various forms and are prescribed to patients by doctors in various dosages. These medications can be very efficient, but they also carry a high risk of misuse and addiction. People who have histories of psychiatric disorders are at a higher risk of misuse and should be monitored closely.
The stimulant in these medications can increase blood flow to the brain, and can trigger a surge of feelings of euphoria. When the medication is finished it is common for people to experience a sharp drop in energy levels, and feelings of depression or anxiety. Combining stimulant and nonstimulant ADHD medication can help lessen the negative effects.
When adults use ADHD medication the potential for abuse is a major issue, especially when they combine stimulants with other drugs or use high doses. Illicit drugs like MDMA and cocaine can stimulate the brain chemicals similar to prescription stimulants. Students at colleges, especially those who are awarded academic or athletic scholarships are also at risk of misusing stimulant drugs. They might use stimulants to get a "rush" while studying or to do all-nighters, or to enhance their performance in sports and activities. These substances can cause serious physical or mental harm when abused.
All stimulant medications have an increased risk of dependence and abuse. People with a history of depression or bipolar disorder may be at increased risk for this. People who are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should wait at least 14 days before beginning stimulants.
The majority of stimulant medications are prescribed in small doses or controlled doses. This allows your doctor to track your child's and your own bodily reactions and determine if the medications are working. Your doctor may require you to attend for regular appointments so that they can assess how the medication is working for you or your child.
Non-stimulant medications
Non-stimulant ADHD medication is prescribed when stimulants do not work or cause intolerable negative side effects. best adhd medication for adults work by increasing levels of norepinephrine which is a brain chemical. The medications can be consumed in the form of an oral pill or injection.
In general, non-stimulant medications have lower levels of dependency and abuse than stimulants. They are also less expensive than stimulants.
This class includes atomoxetine, also known as Ritalin (Ritalin) and desmethylphenidates like Strattera or Kapvay.
Treatment options for ADHD in Adults
Adult ADHD is best treated using a a combination of psychosocial treatment and medication. Behavioral therapy can help people with ADHD how to organize their lives and improve their social skills. It is beneficial to take medication for most people with ADHD however, it is important to take it regularly and according to the schedule prescribed. You can create a reminder system to aid in remembering your medication. You can also set alarms on your computer or phone or use a pillbox that has compartments for different medicines.