ADHD Medication and Over the Counter ADHD Medication
There are several prescription ADHD medications that can help improve attention, focus and impulsivity. The majority of these drugs belong to the methylphenidate or amphetamine drug categories. They include Adderall, Ritalin and Vyvanse. Some of the adverse effects include insomnia and loss of appetite.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an unstimulant medication that could be beneficial. It works by boosting norepinephrine, which is a chemical in the brain. A healthy diet, exercise routine and adequate sleep are essential.
1. Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate also referred to as Ritalin, is one of the most popular medications used to treat ADHD in adolescents and children. This stimulant medication works by increasing activity in areas of the brain that are involved with attention. It has been used for more than 50 years, and numerous studies have proven it to be effective.
Methylphenidate works by blocking the reuptake process of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which increases their concentrations in the neural synapse. It is a racemic mix, with the d'isomer having greater pharmacological effect. Methylphenidate can be found in capsule, tablet extended release (ER) and oral disintegrating form. It is a Schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for addiction and abuse.
Studies have shown that methylphenidate could increase impulsivity, inattention and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. However, methylphenidate can have certain side effects, such as loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. These side effects, while not serious however, can be difficult to deal with for parents.
Fortunately, these adverse effects typically subside as time passes. It is important to be aware that methylphenidate can increase blood pressure or heart rate in certain people. This is the reason it is classified as a Schedule II controlled drug. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate during pregnancy because it could cause harm to the unborn baby as well as long-term developmental effects on the breastfed infant.
Methylphenidate is typically taken in the morning. It should be taken with a full stomach, and it is recommended to avoid eating or drinks that can hinder its absorption. Read the leaflet to find out whether you can swallow extended-release capsules or tablets whole, or if you need to open them and mix them with a bit of soft food, such as honey or yogurt.
2. Ritalin
Methylphenidate also referred to as Ritalin, is a centrally-controlled system stimulant. It affects the chemical and nerves in the brain that cause attention deficit disorder (ADD) hyperactivity, ADD and insufficient impulse control. Ritalin is approved by the FDA to treat ADHD and narcolepsy in adults and children aged 6 and older. It can also be used off-label to treat a number of other conditions, including major depressive disorder and cancer.
The most common prescription medication used by healthcare providers to treat ADHD is stimulants. They function by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals known as norepinephrine and dopamine. These neurotransmitters help improve concentration and increase motivation. They also play an important role in the fight or flight response. When used correctly stimulants can greatly reduce symptoms of ADHD.
Like all medications methylphenidate could cause adverse side effects. The most commonly reported are a loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping. Some people experience jitteriness and mood swings. They may also have headaches or stomachaches. These symptoms usually disappear within several days.
Ritalin is often misused as a stimulant, even though it is prescribed to treat ADHD. The abuse occurs when people take more than the recommended dose, or combine it with other stimulants. It is risky to mix it with alcohol or other narcotics. The abuse can also involve crushing or dissolving the tablets into the powder which is later consumed. Overdosing on Ritalin is possible.
The FDA has approved a handful of non-stimulant ADHD drugs. They are primarily norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These drugs do not address the primary symptoms, but they can be helpful when combined with stimulants to reduce the side effects. These medications are typically effective when they are coupled with behavioral therapy.
3. Vyvanse
Vyvanse is the brand name used for lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is an amphetamine that is used to boost focus and attention among ADHD patients. It also reduces the frequency of eating too much that are associated with binge-eating disorders (BED). Vyvanse works on specific brain pathways to boost the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. It is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for ADHD and BED. Similar to other stimulant medications Vyvanse can trigger adverse effects like nausea, jitteriness, and anxiety. These effects typically diminish as the body adjusts to the medication. Consult your doctor if you experience any problems.
To ensure you receive the best possible treatment, it is essential to maintain regular appointments with your physician. They will be able to monitor your progress and make any necessary changes to your medication regimen. They might suggest alternative treatments to ease the symptoms of ADHD. This includes herbal supplements and changes to your diet. However, certain herbs and dietary supplements are not backed by scientific research to prove their effectiveness as ADHD treatments. This includes the pycnogenol (an extract from maritime pine bark).
Other popular stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD include forms of methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine, such as Ritalin and Adderall. Additionally, these medications are available in extended-release versions to provide more regular control of symptoms throughout the day. Your doctor might also prescribe stimulant medications such as atomoxetine and guanfacine. These medications are known as nootropics, and have been shown to enhance mental clarity and memory retention. They are not intended to replace prescription ADHD medication.
4. Focalin
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is an anti-stimulant medication that is used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents as well as adults. It is typically taken in the morning, with or without eating and at the same time throughout the day, to increase the effectiveness of the medication. It can be used as an immediate-release or extended-release medication, based on the dosage recommended by your doctor. Focalin is a synthetic stimulant that is similar to methylphenidate, but has less adverse negative effects. It is not contaminated with harmful methylphenidate isomers, like some other medications. Focalin helps by increasing the availability of two monoamines within the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine, by encouraging their release from neurons and blocking their reuptake. This helps to reduce symptoms of ADHD, such as hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention.
It's crucial to discuss with your healthcare professional what ADHD medicines help you or if they are helping your child. It's not common for doctors to try various doses and medications to find the best one that fits each individual patient. They may also prescribe non-stimulant medications to improve attention span and impulsive behaviors as well.
Never divulge your Focalin prescription with anyone, not even a person who suffers from ADHD. This could result in serious and possibly fatal drug interactions. It is also not recommended to take Focalin XR while pregnant or breastfeeding since animal studies suggest that it may cause harm to the foetus. It is also crucial to stay clear of alcohol, sedatives, and other illegal substances while taking Focalin XR, as they could cause more severe adverse effects.
5. Intuniv
Guanfacine is the main ingredient in Intuniv. It is an alpha-2-adrenergic antagonist that has been demonstrated by research to improve ADHD symptoms through its actions on the prefrontal cortex. This aids in controlling impulsivity and attention. It also treats other impairments that are associated with ADHD like emotional sensitivity, rejection sensitivity, and hyperarousal by decreasing levels of adrenaline back to normal. Intuniv does not stimulate, so it doesn't have the same negative effects as stimulants such as Adderall. Guanfacine, however, has some serious risks including slow heart rate, low blood pressure and sedation. Additionally, those who suffer from depression or a history of substance abuse are not the best candidates for this medication.
While stimulants are effective in treating ADHD symptoms however, they can trigger addiction and other side effects. Intuniv, a non-stimulant medication takes longer to take effect. However it is less likely to have negative side effects. Consult your physician about the best treatment for you.
Intuniv is FDA approved for treating children aged six through 17 years old. However, it has not been studied in children younger than this age group or in adults. It is not a controlled substance, therefore it is not at risk of the same risk for abuse or dependency as stimulants. Guanfacine can, however, become habit-forming. It should only be used under the supervision of a doctor or nurse practitioner.
does adhd medication work should be taken regularly and simultaneously in order to maintain an even amount of the drug in the bloodstream. It is to be crushed between 2 spoons, placed in an plastic bag, or on folded paper and mixed with some soft food items like applesauce, chocolate syrup, ice cream jelly, or yogurt. The entire amount must be swallowed by the child in order to prevent it from being spit out.