ADHD Medication Names
Stimulant ADHD medications like methylphenidate, (Ritalin and Concerta) help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the amount of hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They come in immediate-release and extended-release tablets, chewable tablets liquids and capsules, and also in a patch known as Daytrana.
Finding the appropriate dose and medicine for your child or yourself is a process of trial-and failure that requires open communication between the health care team.
Stimulants
Stimulants, which are the most popular medication prescribed to treat ADHD, boost concentration and focus. They enhance focus and concentration and reduce the impulsive or hyperactive behavior. They are believed to be effective by increasing levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated to reward and motivation in certain brain circuits.
Methylphenidate (MPH; Ritalin and Concerta) and dextroamphetamine-AMP (d-AMP; Adderall) are the two most common stimulants. They are available in chewable tablets or liquid form, and are taken twice or three times daily. They can cause a brief increase in blood pressure and heart rate but they aren't dangerous for most people.
Other medications may have the same effect however, they are less effective and have more serious side-effects. These include amphetamines (including atomoxetine and guanfacine) and methylenedioxybenzylpiperidine carbamate (MDP; Vyvanse). MDP can increase blood pressure, but is not harmful to people with normal cardiovascular health. It can also trigger an increase in blood pressure, and symptoms occur after the medication wears off.
Prescription stimulants are often abused in a variety of ways, whether unknowingly or knowingly, and can result in serious, even life-threatening side consequences. They are classified as controlled substances, and taking them without a doctor's prescription or knowingly relying on someone else's prescription is illegal. Prescription stimulants can cause addiction, especially when they are used in a way that is harmful and misused.
Stimulants can also have long-term effects on growth and development. They can make tics appear more prominent, which are repetitive sound or movement like eye-blinking or clearing the throat. They can also make people sleepy and reduce their appetite. They can also cause minor growth delays in children, but they don't usually affect final height.
They can also cause personality changes in certain people, such as becoming more withdrawn, listless or rigid. They can also exacerbate anxiety or depression. Stimulants don't work as a first line treatment for depression or anxiousness however they are commonly used if other drugs don't perform.
medication for adhd takes time to determine the appropriate dosage, medication and formulation for your child or you. Be patient and openly talk with your doctor. They will need to monitor your physical reactions until they can find the right drug that reduces ADHD symptoms and minimizes side negative effects. They might also suggest cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other nonpharmacological treatment to help manage your symptoms.