ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are among the stimulants.
adhd medication for adults uk , an older class of antidepressants, are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. However, these drugs can have serious side effects, which is why doctors generally only recommend them when stimulants don't perform or cause uncontrollable side effects.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These drugs work by increasing the amounts of dopamine and norepinephrine that are present in your brain. Most people who take these medications find that they increase their concentration, decrease fatigue, and lower hyperactivity and impulsivity. Around 70% to 80 percent of those with ADHD are able to benefit from stimulants. These medications don't cause addiction when taken in the dosages that are prescribed to treat ADHD. However, they can be abused and lead to addiction. Those with a history or addiction to alcohol or drugs, or those who come from an extended family with mental health or substance abuse issues may be more at risk.
adhd medication for adults uk used stimulants to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. Most of these medicines are available as generics, which cost less than brand-name medications and are preferred by many insurance companies. Some are also available as extended-release tablets which are taken daily and can last up to 16 hours. This can result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which is particularly beneficial for children who are in school.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes. They typically last for about four hours. They can be taken twice or three times per day. They are usually the first medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these are available as chewable tablets, liquid or patches that are placed on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants are usually taken once a day in the morning and can last up to 16 hours. They can prevent the peaks and dips in effectiveness that occur when short-acting stimulants lose their effectiveness which can result in extreme hunger and low energy. Many people who take long-acting stimulants also supplement them with a small amount of medication that is immediate-release to help them get through the late evening and afternoon.
There are many possible negative effects that can be triggered by taking stimulants to treat ADHD. These include nausea, headaches inability to eat, nervousness, and sleepiness. Most of these effects are mild to moderate and they will go away within a couple of weeks after your body adjusts. If the side effects persist or are severe, you should consult your physician.
Non-stimulants
These medications are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include varenicline, atomoxetine and bupropion. Most of these medications have an lower risk of misuse than stimulants, yet they can still lead to insomnia, agitation or anxiety.
Talk to your doctor about how you weigh up the risks and benefits of each alternative. Your doctor will take into account your medical history, your symptoms and any other illnesses or conditions you may have. They'll also examine how each medication affects you or your child, and how well it works with other treatments. You will need to inform your doctor about any supplements, foods, or beverages you or your child take in addition to any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking, such as antidepressants.