How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be alleviated by medication. This increases the amount of a neurotransmitter known as Norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants are the most common treatment for children suffering from ADHD.
You can pick between the short- or long-acting doses. They are more efficient and last between 8 and 12 hours. They should be taken just once per day. They also lessen the effects of rebound, where symptoms can return, and are often more severe than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medical professionals typically prescribe stimulants. They help by increasing the levels of the chemicals (neurotransmitters) in your brain that are called dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These help you pay attention and stay focused.
However, stimulants can have adverse effects, particularly when used for a long period of. Discuss with your doctor the potential adverse effects of these drugs, such as changes in mood, appetite and heart rate, as well as how they affect your sleep.
If you take an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you may be at risk of developing addiction or abuse. Addiction is when you feel you can't control your desire to take the drug, even though it causes negative adverse effects. The signs of addiction include taking more than your doctor suggests or feeling dependent on the drug or experiencing negative side effects.
Abuse of stimulant medications can also cause other health issues like depression and suicidal thoughts. If you suspect that you or someone else you know might be using these drugs to harm themselves or others, contact your local police department or other authorities immediately.
Some of the most common 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. The majority of these medications are used once or twice a day.
The longer-acting versions of amphetamines are more effective than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last between six and eight hours, and help you get through your day with less "ups and downs."
Extended- iampsychiatry.uk may be used with an immediate-release medication during the afternoon. This is beneficial should your ADHD symptoms start to show up late in the day or if you experience an irritability as a result of the medication fading early.
A small dose of a stimulant that acts long-term at the time of bed can be a good option to aid in your sleep. You shouldn't take this drug in the absence of hunger. It could cause sleep issues and loss of energy.
Insomnia is a frequent reaction to stimulants in the initial stages of treatment. This can be reduced by not taking the medication near the time of bed and getting enough sleep every night.
Another side effect associated with stimulants is anxiety. It can range from moderate to severe and could cause tics. These are sudden movements or sounds like eye blinking, throat clearing, or throat clearing. It can also cause a worsening of the symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder.
Although changes in heart beat and blood pressure can occur, the effects are usually not significant. If you are beginning to use stimulants to treat ADHD, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart function.
ADHD medication can also trigger insomnia. This can be less of a concern when you begin to take stimulants in conjunction with a prescription sleep aid, or by using a relaxing or meditation technique before going to sleep.