ADHD Medication and Over the Counter ADHD Medication
There are many prescription ADHD medications that help improve focus, attention and impulsivity. Most fall into the methylphenidate or amphetamine drug classes. Adderall Ritalin and Vyvanse are among the most common. Some of the side effects include sleepiness and a loss of appetite.
A non-stimulant medicine, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) can also be helpful. It works by increasing norepinephrine which is a brain chemical. A healthy diet, exercise routine and adequate sleep are essential.
1. Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, commonly known as Ritalin, is one of the most well-known medications used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents. The stimulant medication boosts the activity of brain regions that are involved in focusing. It has been used for more than 50 years, and a number of studies have shown it to be effective.
Methylphenidate is a drug that blocks the reuptake neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This increases the amount of these neurotransmitters in neural synapses. It is a racemic mix with the d-isomer being the most active pharmacologically. Methylphenidate can be found in tablet, capsule, ER (extended release) and orally disintegrating forms. It is a Schedule II controlled substance with an increased risk of addiction and abuse.
Research has shown that methylphenidate can improve hyperactivity and hyperactivity among children suffering from ADHD. However, methylphenidate may cause some negative side effects like weight loss and difficulty sleeping. These side effects are not typically serious, but they can be difficult for parents to deal with.
Fortunately, the majority of side effects will subside over time. It is also important to note that methylphenidate can increase heart rate and blood pressure in some individuals, which is why it is a Schedule II controlled substance. It is not recommended to take methylphenidate while pregnant as it could harm the unborn baby and long-term effects on development in the breastfed infant.
Methylphenidate should be taken in the morning. It is best to avoid foods and drinks that can affect its absorption. For extended-release capsules and tablets, look up the leaflet to find instructions on how to swallow the tablets whole or open them and mix the contents with a small amount of soft food such as honey or yogurt, and then take them in.
2. Ritalin
Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a stimulant for the central nervous system that affects the chemicals in the brain and nerves that cause attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity and impulse control. The FDA has approved Ritalin to treat ADHD in children 6 years and older, and to treat adults with Narcolepsy. Off-label, it's being used to treat major depression disorder, terminal cancer and other disorders.
The most frequently prescribed medication prescribed by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals called dopamine, and norepinephrine. adhd medication uk enhance concentration and boost motivation. They also play a role in the fight-or-flight response. When used correctly stimulants can greatly reduce symptoms of ADHD.
Like any medication, methylphenidate may have side effects. The most commonly reported are a loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. Some people experience jitteriness or mood swings. They might also experience headaches or stomachaches. These effects usually disappear after a few weeks.
Ritalin can be abused to stimulate the mind, even when it's prescribed for ADHD. Abuse occurs when people take more than the recommended dose, or combine it with other stimulants. It can be dangerous to mix it with alcohol or other substances. The abuse can also involve crushing or dissolving tablets to create an insoluble powder that is taken in a snort. It is possible to overdose on Ritalin.
The FDA has approved a few non-stimulant ADHD medications. They are primarily norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These medications do not treat the primary symptoms, but they can be helpful when combined with stimulants to reduce the side effects. These medications are typically effective when accompanied by therapy for behavior.
3. Vyvanse
Vyvanse, the brand name of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is an amphetamine which is used to improve attention and focus among ADHD patients. This medication also curbs episodes of eating too much that are associated with eating disorders that cause binge eating (BED). Vyvanse affects specific pathways in the brain to increase the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. It is prescribed as part a holistic treatment plan for ADHD and BED. Vyvanse like other stimulant medications, can cause negative side effects, like anxiety and jitteriness. These side effects usually decrease over time as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist, speak to your prescriber about them.
It is crucial to keep track of regular appointments with your doctor to ensure you are receiving the best treatment. They will monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan. They might also suggest alternative treatments to help reduce the symptoms of ADHD. These include herbal supplements, dietary changes and cognitive enhancement supplements. There is a lack of research-based evidence to support the efficacy of certain supplements to diet and herbs as ADHD treatments. These include pycnogenol, an extract from pine bark from the maritime region.
Other commonly used stimulant medications to treat ADHD include methylphenidate forms and dextroamphetamine. These include Ritalin and Adderall. These drugs are also available in extended-release versions which provide more consistent symptom control throughout the day. Your doctor can also prescribe stimulant medications such as atomoxetine and guanfacine. These nootropics have been shown to increase memory and mental clarity. These are not meant to replace prescription ADHD medication.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a stimulant drug used to treat ADHD for adults and children. It is usually taken without or with food in the morning, and at the same time every day to maximize the effectiveness of the medication. It can be used as an immediate-release or extended-release medication, depending on the dosage recommended by your physician. Focalin is a stimulant created by man, is comparable to methylphenidate. However, it has fewer side-effects. It is not contaminated with harmful methylphenidate metabolites, as do other drugs. Focalin works by increasing the availability of two monoamines within the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine, by encouraging their release from neurons and blocking their reuptake. This reduces the symptoms of ADHD such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.
It's crucial to talk to your healthcare provider about how ADHD medicines are helping you or helping your child. It's not uncommon for doctors to try several different medicines and doses to determine the most effective one that is appropriate for each patient. They can prescribe non-stimulant medication to help improve attention span and impulsive behaviors as well.
Don't divulge your Focalin prescription with anyone, not even someone who suffers from ADHD. This could lead to 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 could cause harm to the fetus. It is also important 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 principal ingredient in Intuniv. It is an alpha-2-adrenergic receptor antagonist that has been proven by research to improve ADHD symptoms through its actions on the prefrontal cortex. This helps control impulsivity, and attention. It also treats other issues related to ADHD like emotional sensitivity, rejection sensitivity, and hyperarousal by reducing adrenaline levels to normal. Intuniv is a non-stimulant, so it does not have the same side effects as stimulants like Adderall. Guanfacine has some serious side effects, including sedation, low blood pressure and slow heart rate. People with depression or the history of addiction are not suitable candidates for the medication.
While stimulants work fast to combat ADHD symptoms, they can be addictive and can cause a variety of negative side negative effects. Non-stimulant drugs such as Intuniv take longer to work but are less likely to trigger harmful side effects. Consult your doctor about the best treatment for you.
Intuniv is FDA approved to treat children ranging from six to 17 years old, but it hasn't been studied in people younger than this age group or in adults. It is not a controlled drug, so there is no risk of abuse or dependence. However, guanfacine can be habit-forming and should only be used under the care of a nurse or doctor practitioner.
Intuniv is recommended to be taken on a regular basis and at the same time to ensure an adequate amount of drug in the bloodstream. It is best to crush it in a plastic bag or folded paper, between two spoons. Then it can be mixed with a small quantity of soft food, such as chocolate syrup or applesauce. The child is then required to swallow the entire amount to stop it being spit out.