ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants work to boost the levels of two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are among the stimulants.
Doctors also sometimes prescribe the older class of antidepressants called tricyclics to treat ADHD. These medications can cause severe adverse effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them if stimulants do not perform or cause unacceptable symptoms.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. They increase the amount of dopamine found in your brain. This improves concentration, reduces fatigue, and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity for the majority of people who use them. About 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from stimulants. These medications aren't habit-forming in the doses used to treat ADHD, but they are a risk for addiction and abuse. If you have a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol, or those from a family of substance abuse or mental health issues may be more at risk.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulants in treating ADHD. Generics are cheaper than brand-name medications and are preferred by the majority of insurance companies. There are some that are available as extended-release tablets which are taken daily and last for up to 16 hours. This can result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which can be especially helpful for school-aged children.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) start working in 30 to 45 minutes. They last about four hours. They can be taken twice or three times daily. Most often, they are the first medication that your doctor prescribes. Some of these are available as chewable tablets, liquids or patches that are placed on the skin.
Intermediate and long-acting stimulants can last for up to 16 hours, and are consumed daily in the morning. They can help prevent the peaks and dips in effectiveness that can occur when stimulants that are short-acting wear off, which can cause extreme hunger and low energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants add a small amount of immediate-release medications to get through the late afternoon and evening.
There are a variety of possible side effects that can be triggered by taking stimulants to treat ADHD that can cause stomachaches, headaches, nervousness, loss of appetite and sleepiness. Most of these side-effects are mild to moderate and will disappear within a few weeks once your body adjusts. Talk to your doctor if the side effects are extreme or persist after several weeks.
Non-stimulants
These medications are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera) and varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications are less likely to be misused than stimulants but can still cause insomnia, agitation or anxiety.
Talk to your doctor about how you evaluate the risks and benefits of each medication alternative. Your doctor will look at your medical background, the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other illnesses or conditions you suffer from. They'll also consider how each medication affects your child or you and how it interacts with other treatments. most effective adhd medication for adults 'll need to tell your doctor about any food drinks, supplements or foods you or your child takes and if you're taking any other prescription or over-the counter medications, including antidepressants.