Medications For ADHD<br /><br /><br /><br />Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD. They are effective in improving concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can trigger side effects like headaches, stomach upsets, and changes in blood pressure and heart rate.<br /><br />The majority of stimulants belong to two classes of drugs: methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. They are available in liquid and chewable form and are available as short-acting and intermediate- or long-acting medications.<br /><br />Stimulants<br /><br />Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs for ADHD. They increase brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which increase concentration and attention. They come in immediate-release and extended-release versions. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamines as well as dextroamphetamine (Adderall). They can cause serious side effects, and they are highly susceptible to misuse. These drugs should only be taken with a doctor's approval. L-tyrosine, a natural supplement, may also help increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels, but it should not be taken without a doctor's supervision.<br /><br />The most effective treatments combine medication, therapy, behavior changes and skills training. This approach is often called multimodal treatment. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/adult-adhd-medication">www.iampsychiatry.com</a> of medicines can help alleviate symptoms in the majority of adults and children, however they are not able to treat the problem. They should be used regularly to achieve the best results. In many instances, the medication will need to adjusted to find the dose that is effective in controlling symptoms, with minimal adverse effects.<br /><br />Some people experience relief from their symptoms when they take a stimulant in the morning, and then take an extended-release medication late afternoon or evening. This can prevent the risk of a "crash" when the medication wears off which can cause short-lasting fatigue and a bad mood.<br /><br />In the last couple of decades, amphetamines have been widely abused by athletes, truck drivers, and students for non-medical reasons, mostly to stay awake and boost performance. The brain is affected by these drugs quickly and provide the feeling of euphoria, energy and alertness. They can be snorted, injected, or taken in the form of a smoke. Certain of these drugs are addictive.<br /><br />The FDA has approved atomoxetine also known as Vyvanse (Vyvanse), and guanfacine, also known as Fastin (Guanfacine), to treat adult ADHD. These are in a class of medicines known as alpha-2 adrenaline antagonists, which were originally created to lower blood pressure. These medications are effective in treating ADHD due to their a calming affect and reduce hyperactivity and aggression. These medicines are not likely to cause serious side effects, however they may increase heart rate and blood pressure, and may interfere with some prescription or over-the counter medications.<br /><br />Other medications for treating ADHD include the clonidine (Kanerol) and antidepressants. These medications can help control ADHD symptoms for some people. They are typically prescribed when stimulants do not provide sufficient relief or cause unpleasant adverse effects. Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine and Nortriptyline are effective in certain cases however they can cause side effects that are difficult to manage.<br /><br />Treatment Options for ADHD<br /><br />Many people who have ADHD do not require take medication, but they can benefit from developing healthy ways of life and coping strategies. A few adults who have mild or moderate symptoms are able to manage their symptoms through exercise and diet, whereas others may require the assistance of therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy which teaches skills to change the ways people think and behave. Other self-help strategies, such as dietary modifications and supplements, may be beneficial but should only be used with medical advice.<br /><br />