How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be alleviated through medication. This increases the quantity of a neurotransmitter known as Norepinephrine within the brain.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication prescribed for children with ADHD.
You can choose between the short- or long-acting doses. They are more effective and last for 8-12 hours. They should be taken only one time per day. They also reduce the effect of rebound, in which symptoms return, often more than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medical professionals typically prescribe stimulants. They function by increasing the levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals aid in focusing and helping you stay focused.
Side effects can occur particularly if stimulants are used for a prolonged period of time. Talk to your doctor about the potential adverse effects of these medications, including changes in your mood, appetite and heart rate. Also, you should know how they affect your sleep.
If you use an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you may be at risk of becoming addicted or abuse. Addiction is when you feel you can't control your urge to use a stimulant even if it causes adverse side effects. Addiction can be a sign of a desire to take more than your doctor suggests or being dependent on the substance.
Other health issues that may be caused by the use of stimulant medication include suicidal ideas and depression. You should immediately report to the police if you suspect that someone you are aware of is using stimulant drugs to harm themselves or others.
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. These medications are usually taken daily, either once or twice.
The amphetamines with extended-release releases are more effective than their short-acting counterparts. They last between six and eight hours, and can aid you in getting through the day without having to deal with "ups and downs."
It is common to use extended-release stimulants and immediate-release medications in the mid-to-late afternoon. This is a good option should you notice that your ADHD symptoms begin to appear late during the day or you are experiencing irritation due to the medication's effects fading earlier.
To aid you in falling asleep, a small dose of an elongating stimulant may be taken before bed. You shouldn't take this medication even if you're not hungry. It can cause sleep problems and energy loss.
During how to treat adhd without medication in adults of treatment, insomnia can be a fairly common side effect of stimulants. This can be minimized by not taking the medication before bed and getting enough sleep regularly.
Another side effect associated with stimulants is anxiety. It can be mild to extreme and may cause tics. These are sudden, erratic movements or sounds like eye blinking, throat clearing or throat clearing. It can also contribute to an existing depression or bipolar disorder.
Although changes in heart beat and blood pressure could occur, they are not usually significant. Your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve your heart's performance when you begin using stimulants for ADHD.
Insomnia is a possible adverse effect of ADHD medication. It's less of a problem once you begin taking stimulants along with a prescription sleep aid or by using a relaxing or meditation practice prior to going to sleep.