How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be alleviated through medication. This increases the quantity of a neurotransmitter called Norepinephrine in the brain.
Children suffering from ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants.
You can choose between short- and long-acting dosages. The longer-acting ones are preferred since they last between 8 and 12 hours and must be taken just once a day. They also limit the rebound effect, where symptoms return, often more than before, as the medication wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medical professionals typically prescribe stimulants. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, namely norepinephrine and dopamine. This helps you concentrate and pay attention.
Side effects can occur particularly if stimulants are taken for a prolonged period of time. Discuss with your doctor the potential adverse effects of these medications, including changes in mood, appetite and heart rate, as well as how they affect your sleep.
If you are taking any stimulant medication for prolonged periods of time, you could be at risk of developing addiction or misuse. Addiction is when you feel you can't control your urge to take a stimulant drug regardless of its adverse effects. Addiction can manifest as a desire to take more than what your doctor recommends or becoming dependent on the drug.
Other health issues that may be caused by the use of stimulant medication include depression and suicidal thoughts. You should immediately report to the police if you suspect that someone you know is using stimulant medications to harm themselves or others.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are two of the most frequently used stimulants to treat ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. These medicines are typically taken daily, either once or twice.
The longer-acting versions of amphetamines are more effective than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last between six and eight hours and assist you in navigating your day with less "ups and downs."
It is common to use extended-release stimulants along with immediate-release medications in the late afternoon to mid afternoon. This is a good choice when ADHD symptoms appear late in the day, or if the medication stops working too early.
To aid you in falling asleep A small dose of a long-acting stimulant could be taken at bedtime. medication for adhd in adults uk 's not recommended to consume the medication on an empty stomach since it may cause a loss of energy and cause sleepiness.
In the initial phases of treatment, insomnia is an almost common side effect that occurs with stimulants. It can be alleviated by not taking the medication near bedtime and getting enough sleep each night.
Another effect of stimulants is anxiety. It can be severe or mild, and it can cause tics, which are abrupt movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also worsen the effects of depression and bipolar disorder.
Changes in blood pressure and heart rate are also possible, even though these effects are usually minor. Your doctor may prescribe medications to lower your blood pressure and improve your heart's function when you start using stimulants for ADHD.
ADHD medication can also cause insomnia. It is less of a problem if you start to take stimulants with an ointment prescribed for sleep, or by using a relaxation or meditation technique before going to sleep.