How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medical treatments can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount the neurotransmitter norepinephrine that is found in the brain.
Stimulants are the most common medication prescribed to children with ADHD.
You can choose from short- or long-acting doses. They are recommended to take longer-acting doses because they last for 8-12 hours and should be taken only one time per day. They also lessen the effects of rebound, where symptoms return, often worse than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medication providers typically prescribe stimulants. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, which are known as norepinephrine and dopamine. This helps you concentrate and pay attention.
However, stimulants can have adverse effects, particularly when used for a prolonged period of. Consult your physician about the potential side effects of these medications, including changes in your mood, appetite and heart rate. Also, you should know 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 you can’t manage your urge to take any drug, even if it has harmful side effects. Addiction may manifest as a need to take more than your doctor recommends or being dependent on the substance.
A high dose of stimulant medication for add medication uk in adults, news, can cause other health issues, such as depression and suicidal thoughts. If you think you or someone you know may be using these substances to harm themselves or Medication For Add In Adults others, you should contact your local police or other authorities immediately.
Some of the most commonly used stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and the methylphenidate (brand-name medication Ritalin, Concerta or Dexamphetamine). Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. These medicines are typically taken daily, either once or twice.
The amphetamines with extended release are more effective than their short-acting counterparts. They last from six to eight hours, and help you get through your day with less “ups and downs.”
It is typical to use extended-release stimulants in conjunction with an immediate-release drug in the mid-to-late afternoon. This is an excellent option if ADHD symptoms appear late in the daytime, or when the medication wears off too early.
To aid you in falling asleep, a small dose of a long-acting stimulant could be taken before bed. You shouldn’t take this drug when you’re not hungry. It can cause sleep problems and loss of energy.
In the initial stages of treatment, insomnia is a fairly frequent side effect of stimulants. It can be reduced by not taking the medication prior to bedtime and taking enough sleep regularly.
Anxiety is another common side effect of stimulants. It can be severe or mild, and it can result in tics, which are sudden movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also cause a worsening of the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder.
Although changes in blood pressure and heart rate can occur, the effects are usually not significant. Your doctor may prescribe an medication to lower your blood pressure and improve your heart function when you start using stimulants for ADHD.
Insomnia is also a potential negative side effect of ADHD medication. This problem can be alleviated if you take stimulants with prescription sleep aids or if you practice relaxation or meditation techniques before going to bed.