How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medicines can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, in the brain.
Children suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants.
You can pick between short- and long-acting dosages. The longer-acting ones are more popular because they last between 8 and 12 hours and must be taken only one time per day. They also minimize the rebound effect, where symptoms return, usually more than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular type of prescription medication that healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, namely dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps you concentrate and pay attention.
The risk of experiencing side effects is high particularly if stimulants are taken for a prolonged period of time. Consult your physician about the potential side effects of these medications, and also about possible changes in appetite, mood and heart rate and how they affect your sleep.
If you take an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you may be at risk for addiction or abuse. Addiction is when you feel you are unable to control your desire to take a stimulant drug even if it comes with side effects. The signs of addiction are taking more than your doctor suggests or feeling dependent on the drug or experiencing negative adverse effects.
Other health issues that may be caused by the use of stimulant medications include depression and suicidal ideation. If adhd without medication suspect that you or someone you know could be taking these drugs to harm themselves or others, call your local police or other authorities right away.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are two of 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. They are usually taken once or twice a day.
The longer-acting versions of amphetamines work better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last between six and eight hours and aid you in getting through your day with less "ups and downs."
It is typical to use extended-release stimulants with an immediate-release medication during the mid-to late afternoon. This is beneficial in the event that your ADHD symptoms start to appear late during the day or you find yourself with anxiety due to the medication wearing off early.
A small dose of a long-acting stimulant prior to bedtime is also an option to help you fall asleep. It isn't recommended to take this medicine with a full stomach, since it could result in a loss of energy and can cause you to sleep poorly.
In the beginning of treatment, insomnia can be a fairly common side effect that occurs with stimulants. It can be reduced by not taking the medicine close to bedtime and by getting enough rest regularly.
Another possible side effect of stimulants is anxiety. It can be moderate to severe and could cause tics. These are sudden, erratic movements or sounds like eye blinking, throat clearing or throat clearing. It can also cause a flare-up in the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder.
Although changes in heartbeat and blood pressure could occur, they are rarely significant. Your doctor can prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve your heart's function when you begin taking stimulants for ADHD.
ADHD medication can also cause insomnia. This is less of a concern when you begin taking stimulants along with an ointment prescribed for sleep, or by using a relaxing or meditation technique before going to bed.