How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medical treatments can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine that is found in the brain.
Children with ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants.
They are available in short- and long-acting dosages. The longer-acting ones are preferred because they last for 8-12 hours and are required to be taken only one time per day. They also limit the rebound effect, which is when symptoms can return, and are often more severe than before, as the medication wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medical professionals typically prescribe stimulants. They function by increasing the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They help you pay attention and stay focused.
However, adhd medication side effects may cause side effects, especially when used for long time. Discuss with your doctor the potential adverse effects of these drugs, such as changes in mood, appetite and heart rate. You should also inquire about how they affect your sleep.
If you are taking a stimulant drug for long periods of time, you may be at risk of becoming addicted or abuse. Addiction is when you are unable to stop yourself from taking an item, even if it has harmful adverse effects. Addiction may manifest as a desire to take more than what your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on the drug.
Other health issues that may be caused by the use of stimulant medications include depression and suicidal thoughts. If you suspect you or someone you know could be using these substances to harm themselves or others, you should contact your local police or other authorities right away.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are two of the most commonly 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 used once or twice a day.
The amphetamines with longer-acting effects perform better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They can last anywhere from six to eight hours and can assist you in navigating your day with fewer "ups" and"downs.
Extended-release stimulants can be paired with an immediate release medication in the afternoon. This is a good option when ADHD symptoms begin to show up late in the daytime, or when the medication wears off too quickly.
To aid you in falling asleep to help you fall asleep, a small dose a long-acting stimulant can be taken at bedtime. It isn't advised to take this medicine with a full stomach as it can cause a decline in energy and can result in a poor sleep.
In the initial phases of treatment, insomnia can be a relatively frequent side effect of stimulants. This can be minimized by not taking the medication prior to bedtime and getting enough sleep regularly.
Another effect of stimulants is anxiety. It may be mild or serious and may result in tics, which are uncontrollable movements or sounds, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also worsen the effects of depression and bipolar disorder.
Changes in blood pressure and heart rate can also occur, although these effects are typically minor. If you start taking stimulants to treat ADHD your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart function.
Insomnia is also a potential adverse effect of ADHD medication. It is less of a problem when you start to take stimulants in conjunction with an ointment prescribed for sleep, or by using a relaxing or meditation practice prior to going to bed.