Best Medication For ADHD

The majority of children and teens who take ADHD medication report that they focus better and are less impulsive. They feel calmer and more focused with their schoolwork. Some individuals may experience a slight slowing in their growth or a rise in blood pressure or heart rate when they are taking these drugs.

The medications are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid and patches (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It's available in immediate-release dextroamphetamine dextroamphetamine and extended-release amphetamine salts.

Stimulants

One of the most effective treatments for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These medications improve focus and attention by altering neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex that is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it assists with organizing and planning abilities.

Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medications are most effective between 30 and 45 minutes, and need to be taken three or twice times per day. They include methylphenidates, like Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines are stronger and last longer, however they all work in similarly in improving concentration and attention. There are extended-release versions of some stimulant drugs. They are a good option because they last up to 12 hours and are website typically taken every day. Some of these are powders that you mix with liquids to create beverages, while some are pills.

Finding the right medicine can take a bit of time. Your doctor will observe your response to different types of medications and adjust the dosage if needed. The use of medication should be part of a complete treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.

Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to kick in however they can make you feel more in control and boost your impulsivity, concentration and focus. These medications don't alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the way that stimulants do, and therefore can be safer to use over longer periods of time. They also have less adverse effects, like constipation, heartburn and lessened sexual drive. The first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera and is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe additional medications from this group such as Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay).

Non-stimulant antidepressants that are off-label can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These antidepressants with tricyclic chemistry like Tofranil(imipramine) are prescribed to treat ADHD. Doctors only suggest these drugs when stimulants and other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many side consequences.

Your doctor can also prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications don't have an immediate impact but they may help reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve concentration. These medications are in a different class of drugs compared to other ones and may cause adverse effects such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor might also suggest the low dose antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin), that is not FDA approved for ADHD treatment, but it can help improve concentration and reduce impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but not usually serious side effects such as ringing or changes in vision.