ADHD Medication - Finding the Right One<br /><br />Finding the best ADHD medicine takes a lot trial and trial and. Many factors influence effectiveness such as the individual's metabolism, side effects and how a drug interacts with other medications and supplements.<br /><br />It can take some time for stimulants to take effect, but they do improve attention, focus and impulsivity. They also boost brain chemicals like dopamine and adrenaline.<br /><br />Stimulants<br /><br />The stimulants, also referred to as uppers, boost the body's functions and make people feel more alert. Examples of stimulants are caffeine, a drug commonly used to keep people alert and alert, and prescription drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin Concerta, Ritalin) amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, (Adderall, Vyvanse), and the lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). These stimulants could also be illegal substances, such as crystal meth, Cocaine, and bath salts (synthetic catshinones) which are commonly abused among young people. If taken by a physician as prescribed the drugs have been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms and improve functioning in people suffering from the disorder.<br /><br />Prescription stimulants are generally safe if used in a controlled manner, however, they do carry a risk of adverse effects, including headache, insomnia, nervousness and stomach upset, tremors and agitation, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, and confusion. They also have a high potential for abuse and addiction. If taken in higher-than-prescribed doses or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to overdose and death.<br /><br />Since more than 30 year methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine, and other prescription stimulants have been available as liquids, pills, chewable tablets and skin patches. The drugs, also referred to as Adderall and Ritalin under their brand names, function by increasing the dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/adult-adhd-medication">adhd medication ritalin</a> can help improve the ability to focus, behavior, and self-control. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release (long-lasting) versions.<br /><br />The most commonly prescribed stimulant drugs are atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). These drugs are part of a class known as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and inhibit the action of norepinephrine inside the brain. They do not aid in the treatment of symptoms of ADHD however they can be beneficial when combined with other treatments like nonstimulant medication and behavioral therapy.<br /><br />Nonstimulant medication<br /><br /><br /><br />There are several nonstimulant medicines that have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. They are usually easier to take than stimulant drugs and have fewer adverse negative effects. They may not work as fast as stimulants and may take a few weeks to begin working. They may also have a lower chance of addiction than stimulant medications, and some doctors recommend these for adults as a first choice for treatment.<br /><br />The medications that are not considered stimulants include the clonidine (brand name Zanex) and alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists like Guanfacine (brand name Tenex). These are generally employed "off-label" for ADHD which means they have not been specifically approved by the FDA to treat this condition. However, they can be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms through acting as a sedative and slowing down the activity of certain nerve cells in the brain.<br /><br />Behavioral education and related behavioral therapy are also crucial components of treatment for ADHD. Behavioral training can teach adults and children with ADHD new strategies to manage their symptoms, improve their social skills, and learn more effective strategies for dealing with frustration and conflict. These techniques are particularly effective for younger children and those who have milder symptoms. However, they are not always effective in older children and adults who have more severe ADHD symptoms.<br /><br />