ADHD Medications
The first step is to use stimulants. medicine doctors try to control symptoms. They increase the levels of two chemical messengers called norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain.
The most popular stimulants are methylphenidate (branded Ritalin and Concerta) and Lisdexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They reduce appetite and can cause weight loss in children. They also increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin) is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD in both adults and children. It works by altering quantities of certain natural substances in the brain. It can be taken in a liquid form, chewable tablet or capsule. The long-acting tablet as well as orally disintegrating tablets provide some of the medication immediately, whereas the capsule with long-release releases a steady dose over time. It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking these medications.
Methylphenidate is a medication that stimulates brain regions that are inactive for ADHD patients, for example those involved with concentration. They boost concentration and make things easier, like listening, following instructions and paying attention. These medications can help decrease physical aggression, as well as other antisocial behavior.
Studies of methylphenidate's effect on the brain show that it increases levels of dopamine and noradrenaline in the prefrontal cortex as well as the nucleus accumbens. It is, however, unable to attach to the serotonin-transporter and, therefore, does not alter serotonin levels. It is believed that this mechanism is the reason why methylphenidate reduces symptoms of ADHD.
Methylphenidate is recommended as part a comprehensive treatment program for ADHD, which includes counseling and other educational programs. It may cause undesirable side effects like stomachaches and headaches. It is not recommended for pregnant women. However, if you feel that the benefits of the medicine outweigh the dangers, it can be prescribed during pregnancy. Your doctor will give you guidance.
Methylphenidate is a Schedule II drug, which means it has a very high risk of abuse and addiction. It's also a central nervous system stimulant and can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate in some people. These effects could be harmful in the event of an illness that affects how your body utilizes blood pressure and heart rate-lowering medicines for example, a liver disease known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or a history of heart or stroke attack. Certain people may suffer from allergic reactions to methylphenidate. Consult your physician if you have allergies. They might be able to prescribe a medicine that doesn't trigger reactions.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines, which are a type of psychostimulant, are used to treat ADHD. These drugs help by increasing levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in the brain. This improves cognitive functioning and motivational behavior. They also aid in treating narcolepsy, a condition that is known as excessive sleep. Amphetamines are available over the market or with a prescription from a physician. They are sometimes given to children who don't respond to methylphenidate, which is the first line of treatment for ADHD in the US.
In a brand new Cochrane review, researchers looked at seven controlled studies that were randomized to amphetamines (dextroamphetamine, the lisdexamfetamine derivative [Vyvanse] and mixed amphetamine salts) for children and adolescents with ADHD. The results showed that amphetamines were superior to placebo in decreasing the severity of ADHD symptoms. However, most of the studies were prone to a high chance of bias. This makes it difficult to establish whether the differences observed between the various amphetamines are genuine.
Different doses of the drug were studied, but no difference was found between immediate- and sustained-release formulations. The authors also examined the effect of varying the length of time taken daily however, there was no difference. Full Record investigated whether the combination of d'amphetamine with lamphetamine, which is the main ingredient of Adderall is more effective than damphetamine alone. They found that the combination was slightly more effective than d-amphetamine but not by much.
The authors concluded that their external validity was limited by the short duration of the research as well as the restrictive inclusion criteria. It is beneficial to conduct longitudinal RCTs with longer follow-up periods and use objective outcomes that are not influenced by blinding failure. Future RCTs could also make use of multiple comparator drugs to enhance the accuracy of their findings.
Current guidelines recommend lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate in adults suffering from ADHD. If the trial of six weeks of these medications does not provide enough benefits doctors may switch to dexamfetamine standard which is more quickly broken down into damphetamine, and requires more frequent use. Atomoxetine may be prescribed in the event that dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine do not provide sufficient benefit to the patient.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant medication eases ADHD symptoms for 70% to 80percent of adults and children who are taking them. These medications reduce hyperactivity, interrupting fidgeting, fidgeting, and other disruptive behaviors, enhancing the focus of children, academic performance and social skills. Your child's doctor may use them as the first treatment, or be utilized alongside other therapies like behavioral therapy. The medication is available in pills, liquids or patches that are sprayed on the skin. When your child starts taking these medications, your healthcare provider will monitor their bodily reactions to determine the correct dose. They'll also check for adverse effects.
Long-acting stimulants relieve symptoms throughout the day without the need to repeat dosages. They have a delayed-release component, so that the medication is absorbed into your body at different times. This provides consistent coverage for up 8 hours. They also have a lower abuse and diversion risk than short-acting stimulation drugs.
Treatments that help people suffering from ADHD improve their focus, attention and impulsivity typically fall into one of two classes of drugs: methylphenidates or amphetamines. The medication affects the levels of dopamine in the brain. The full effect of these drugs can last up to a week. Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage and gradually increase it.
The kind of stimulant your child is taking depends on several factors, such as age, weight, and whether your child is allergic or not to the medication. Inform your doctor if your child is taking any other medications, whether OTC or prescription or vitamins, as well as supplements. Certain medicines can have hazardous effects when combined with other substances which is why your doctor needs to know everything you and your child are taking.
The effects of stimulant medications include sleepiness, loss in appetite, and headaches. Most of these side effects will go disappear after a few weeks or months, but it is important to contact your doctor if they don't. You might be able to reduce side effects by taking your medication with food or altering the dosage.
Short-acting stimulants
There's a high chance that medication could help when your child or you suffers from ADHD. Studies have shown that 70% to 80% of adults and children with ADHD get better by taking ADHD medications. These medicines ease symptoms like excessive stimulation, interruptions fidgeting, disorientation, and difficulties staying focused or finishing tasks. People often have fewer problems at home and in school and have better relationships with their families.
Stimulants alter the levels of the chemicals in your brain called norepinephrine and dopamine. Most doctors recommend stimulants as the first treatment for ADHD in children and adults. Methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (brand name Adderall) are two of the most commonly prescribed stimulants. Doctors can also prescribe extended-release forms of these medications that last between six and 16 hours. They can be taken in the morning, or at different times throughout the day to prevent spikes and valleys in blood levels.
You or your child might need to test different medications and dosages before you can find the best one. Some of the side effects are headaches, stomachaches, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. These are usually the case when a new medicine is first introduced or the dosage is increased. They usually disappear over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
All medications can have adverse reactions. However, they are not commonly experienced by people often or even at all. If you or your child does have an adverse reaction, talk to your doctor right away.
There are a few instances in which a person who has ADHD does not require stimulant medication. This is especially relevant if the person has very good coping abilities or is able to structure his/her life so that ADHD medication is only taken in certain circumstances.
There are some who may be prescribed nonstimulant ADHD medication, such as antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin). They don't have FDA approval to treat ADHD, but are utilized "off label" for this purpose. Nonstimulant drugs can cause less sedation and depression than stimulants, but can still have some side effects such as insomnia or agitation.