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ADHD Medications
The first treatment that doctors employ to treat symptoms is stimulants. They boost the levels of two chemical messengers known as norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain.
The most popular stimulants are the methylphenidate (branded Ritalin and Concerta) and Lisdexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They can reduce appetite, which causes weight loss in children. They also increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate also referred to Ritalin, is the most commonly used stimulant medication used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It affects the quantity of certain natural substances inside the brain. It is available in a liquid form, chewable tablet, or capsule. The tablets that are long-acting and the orally disintegrating tablets deliver medicine immediately, while the capsules deliver a steady dose of medication over time. It is not recommended to consume alcohol while taking these medications.
The methylphenidate medication stimulates brain areas that are underactive in ADHD patients, for example those involved with concentration. They increase concentration and help with tasks, like listening, following instructions, and paying attention. These medications can help in reducing physical aggression as well as other forms of antisocial behavior.
Studies of methylphenidate's effects on the brain have shown that it increases levels of dopamine and noradrenaline in the prefrontal cortex as well as the nucleus accumbens. It does not, however, connect to the serotonin transporter and therefore does not affect serotonin levels. This mechanism of action is thought to be the reason methylphenidate decreases symptoms of ADHD.
Methylphenidate is recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for ADHD that includes counseling and special education. It can trigger unwanted effects such as stomachaches and headaches. It is not usually recommended for pregnant women. However, if the benefits of the medication outweigh risks, it may be prescribed during pregnancy. Your doctor will give you advice.
Methylphenidate is a Schedule II drug, which means it has a very high potential for abuse and addiction. It is also a central nervous system stimulant, and it can increase blood pressure and heart rate in a few people. These effects can be hazardous in the event of a medical condition that affects the way your body uses blood pressure and heart rate-lowering medications, such as a liver disease known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or an history of heart or stroke attack. Certain people may experience allergic reactions to methylphenidate. Inform your doctor whether you are allergic to. He or she might be able to prescribe a medication that doesn't cause these reactions.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines, which are a type of psychostimulant are used to treat ADHD. They work by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to enhance cognitive performance and motivational behavior. They also aid in treating narcolepsy, a condition that is characterized by excessive sleeping. Amphetamines are available over the drugstore or through prescription from a physician. Children who do not respond to methylphenidate - the first treatment of the first line for ADHD in America - are sometimes prescribed amphetamines.
In a new Cochrane review study, researchers reviewed seven controlled, randomized trials of 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 for decreasing the severity of ADHD symptoms. However, the majority of studies had a high risk of bias. It is difficult to know whether the differences between amphetamines studied are genuine.
Different dosages of the drug were studied however no differences were observed between immediate-release and sustained-release formulations. The authors also looked into the effects of varying how long the drug was taken daily and, again, no differences were observed. The researchers also examined whether the combination of d- and l-amphetamine was more effective than d-amphetamine by itself which is the one that is normally used as the main ingredient in Adderall. They discovered that the combination was more effective than d'amphetamine, however, not significantly.
The authors concluded that their validity externally was limited by the short duration of the research as well as the strict inclusion criteria. It would be beneficial to conduct longitudinal RCTs with longer follow-up intervals and employ objective outcomes that are not influenced by blinding failure. Future RCTs could also use multiple comparator drugs to increase the efficacy of their findings.
Current guidelines recommend lisdexamfetamine as well as methylphenidate in adults suffering from ADHD. If the six-week study of these drugs doesn't provide enough benefits doctors can change to dexamfetamine standard which breaks down quicker into damphetamine, and requires more frequent use. Atomoxetine may be prescribed in the event that dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine do not provide enough benefit to the patient.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulant medications ease ADHD symptoms for 70% to the majority of children and adults who take these medications. These medications reduce hyperactivity, interruptions, fidgeting and other disruptive behaviors, enhancing focus, academic performance and social skills. They could be the first treatment that your child's healthcare provider tries or they could be used in conjunction with other therapies, like therapy for behavior. The medication is available in liquids, patches or pills that are sprayed on the skin. When your child starts taking these medications, the healthcare provider will monitor the body's reactions to determine the appropriate dosage. They will also look for any side effects.
Long-acting stimulants are designed to alleviate symptoms throughout the day without the need to take repeated doses. They contain a delayed-release component which means that the medication is absorbed into the body at different times, ensuring continuous coverage for up to 8 hours. They also may have a lower risk for abuse and diversion than short-acting stimulants.
Treatments that help people suffering from ADHD improve their attention, focus and impulsivity generally fall into one of two classes of drugs: methylphenidates or amphetamines. The medication alters the levels of dopamine in the brain. The full effect of these drugs can last up to a week. Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it.
medication for adhd of stimulant your child consumes is based on a variety of factors including weight, age and whether or your child is allergic to the medication or other substances. Tell your doctor if you child is taking any other prescription or OTC medications or vitamins. Certain medications may have harmful effects when mixed with other substances, so your doctor needs to be aware of everything you and your child are taking.
Stimulant medications can have negative effects, like nausea, sleepiness and headaches. Most of these side effects go away after a few weeks or months, but you should consult your physician when they aren't. In certain instances, you might be able to reduce the side effects by taking the medication in conjunction with food or by altering the dosage.
Short-acting stimulants
If you or your child has ADHD There's a good chance that medication will help. According to research, between 70% and 80% of adults with ADHD and children who take ADHD medications see improvements. These medications help with symptoms like hyperactivity, fidgeting and interruptions, as well as difficulties staying focused or completing tasks. People often have fewer problems at school and home and have more stable relationships.
Stimulants alter the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. They're the first treatment most doctors recommend for children and adults with ADHD. Methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (brand name Adderall) are two of the most frequently prescribed stimulants. These medications are prescribed in extended-release by doctors that lasts from 6 to 16 hours. They can be taken in the morning or at different times throughout the day to avoid fluctuations in blood levels.
You or your child may need to try several different dosages and medications before you find the right one. Some of the side effects include headaches, stomachaches, and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. These are the most common side effects when an atypical medication is introduced or dosage is increased. They usually disappear with time as the body adjusts to the medication.
While all medications have negative side effects, the majority of people don't experience them often or at all. If you or your child experience a reaction that is not pleasant consult your doctor right away.
In some instances people with ADHD is not required to take stimulant medications. This is particularly relevant if the person has excellent coping skills or can organize their life in a way that ADHD medication is only taken in special circumstances.
Doctors might also consider non-stimulant ADHD medication for certain people for example, antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin). These don't have FDA approval to treat ADHD however, they are often utilized "off label" for this purpose. Nonstimulant medication can cause less sedation, depression and anxiety than stimulants. However, it can have some negative side effects such as sleeplessness or agitation.