How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be treated by medication. This increases the amount of a neurotransmitter known as Norepinephrine that is found in the brain.
Stimulants are among the most popular medication prescribed for children with ADHD.
You can select between short- and long-acting dosages. The longer-acting ones are preferred because they last between 8 and 12 hours and are required to 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 commonly used kind of prescription medication healthcare professionals employ to treat ADHD. They function by increasing the levels of the chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain that are called dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They aid in focusing and helping you remain focused.
The risk of experiencing side effects is high when stimulants are used for a long time. Consult your physician about what you can expect from these medications, including possible changes in mood, appetite and heart rate and how they affect your sleep.
If you are taking an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you could be at risk of becoming addicted or abuse. Addiction occurs when you feel like you are unable to resist the urge to take a stimulant regardless of its adverse effects. Addiction may manifest as a need to take more than the amount your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on the drug.
Other health issues that could be caused by the use of stimulant medication include depression and suicidal thoughts. You should immediately inform the police if you suspect someone you know is taking stimulant medication to harm themselves or others.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are among 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. The majority of these medications are taken once or twice daily.
The amphetamines with longer-acting effects work better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They can last from six to eight hours and aid you in getting through your day with fewer "ups" and"downs.
Extended-release stimulants may be used with an immediate-release medication during the afternoon. This is helpful should you notice that your ADHD symptoms begin to manifest late in the day or if you are experiencing irritability due to the medication's wear off in the early hours of.
To help you fall asleep to help you fall asleep, a small dose an elongating stimulant may be taken at bedtime. medication for adult adhd is not recommended to take this medication if you aren't hungry. It can cause sleep issues and loss of energy.
In the initial phases of treatment, insomnia can be a fairly frequent side effect of stimulants. This can be minimized by not taking the medication close to the time of bed and getting enough sleep every night.
Another effect of stimulants is anxiety. It may be mild or serious and may lead to tics, which are rapid movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also cause a flare-up in an existing depression or bipolar disorder.
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure are also possible, but these effects are usually minimal. If you start taking stimulants to treat ADHD your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
ADHD medication can also trigger insomnia. This problem can be reduced by taking stimulants along using prescription sleep aids or when you employ relaxation or meditation techniques before going to bed.