How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be relieved through medication. This increases the amount of a neurotransmitter called Norepinephrine within the brain.
Children suffering from ADHD are most commonly prescribed stimulants.
You can select between short- and long-acting dosages. add adhd medication are more efficient and last for between 8 and 12 hours. They must be taken only once daily. They reduce the rebound effect, which is when symptoms return, and often get worse, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medication providers most often prescribe stimulants. They work by increasing the levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in your brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which help you pay attention and remain focused.
However, stimulants may cause side effects, especially when used for a prolonged duration. Consult your physician about what you can expect from these medications, and also about possible changes in appetite, mood and heart rate, as well as how they affect your sleep.
You may be at risk of developing addiction or misuse if you take stimulant drugs for a prolonged duration. Addiction occurs when you feel you can't resist the urge to use the drug, even though it has harmful side effects. Addiction can manifest as a need to take more than your doctor suggests or feeling dependent on the drug.
Other health problems that can be caused by the use of stimulant drugs include depression and suicidal ideation. You should immediately report to the police if you suspect someone you know is taking stimulant medication to harm themselves or others.
Some of the most well-known 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. They are usually taken once or twice per day.
The extended-release versions of amphetamines are more effective than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last from six to eight hours, and can assist you in navigating your day with less "ups and downs."
You may want to consider using extended-release stimulants along with an immediate-release drug in the late afternoon to mid afternoon. This can be helpful when you notice that your ADHD symptoms begin to show up later in the day , or if you find yourself with irritation due to the medication's wear off in the early hours of.
A small dose of a long-acting stimulant prior to the time of your bed is also a possibility to aid in your sleep. It's not recommended to consume this medicine with a full stomach, as it can cause a loss of energy and make you sleepy.
In the initial phases of treatment, insomnia can be an extremely frequent side effect of stimulants. This can be prevented by not taking the medication at night and by sleeping enough regularly.
Another effect of stimulants is anxiety. It can be mild to extreme and may cause tics. These are sudden movements or sound like eye blinking, throat clearing or throat clearing. It can also cause a worsening of a history of depression and bipolar disorder.
Although changes in blood pressure and heart beat can occur, the effects are not usually significant. Your doctor may prescribe medications to lower your blood pressure and improve your heart function in the event that you begin taking stimulants for ADHD.
Insomnia is a possible side effect of ADHD medication. This problem can be reduced if you take stimulants with prescription sleep aids , or if you use meditation or relaxation techniques prior going to bed.