How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medical treatments can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the quantity of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, in the brain.
Children with ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants.
They come in short- and long-acting dosages. They are more effective and last for 8-12 hours. They should be taken only one time per day. They can reduce the rebound effect which occurs when symptoms return, and can be worsening as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular kind of prescription medication healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, known as dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps you concentrate and pay attention.
There are a variety of side effects that can occur especially when stimulants are used for a long time. Consult your physician about what to expect when taking these medications, including possible changes in mood, appetite and heart rate and how they affect your sleep.
You may be at risk of developing addiction or misuse if your use stimulant medications for a long time. Addiction occurs the feeling that you can't control your urge to use a stimulant even if it causes adverse effects. The signs of addiction include 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 medication include depression and suicidal ideation. If you think you or someone you know could be taking these drugs to harm themselves or others, you should contact your local police department or other authorities immediately.
Some of the most commonly used stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and 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 drugs are typically used once or twice a day.
The amphetamines that have a longer acting effect work better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last from six to eight hours and help you through the day without having to deal with "ups and downs."
Extended-release stimulants can be used with an immediate-release drug in the afternoon. This is a great option in the event that ADHD symptoms begin to show up late in the daytime, or when the medication stops working too early.
To aid you in falling asleep it is recommended to take a small amount of a long-acting stimulant could be taken at bedtime. It isn't advised to take this medicine with a full stomach, as it can cause a decrease in energy and could make you sleepy.
In the beginning of treatment, insomnia can be an extremely common side effect that occurs with stimulants. This can be minimized by not taking the medication close to the time of bed and ensuring that you get enough sleep every night.
Another possible side effect of stimulants is anxiety. It can range from mild to severe and can cause tics. These are sudden movements or sounds like eye blinking, throat clearing or throat clearing. It can also worsen the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder.
Changes in blood pressure and heart rate are also possible, but these effects are usually minor. When you begin using stimulants to treat ADHD, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve the function of your heart.
medication for adhd can also trigger insomnia. It is less of a problem if you start to take stimulants that come with a prescribed sleep aid, or by using a relaxing or meditation practice prior to going to bed.