How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be alleviated by medication. This can increase the amount of a neurotransmitter known as Norepinephrine inside the brain.
Children with ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants.
They come in both long and short-acting dosages. They are more efficient and last for between 8 and 12 hours. They should be taken only once a day. They also lessen the rebound effect, which is when symptoms return, often worse than before, as the medication wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medication providers most often prescribe stimulants. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, namely dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps you focus and pay attention.
Some side effects can be experienced especially when stimulants are used for a prolonged period of time. Discuss with your doctor what you can expect from these medications, including possible changes in appetite, mood and heart rate and how they affect your sleep.
You may be at risk of developing an addiction or misuse if you are using stimulant drugs for a prolonged duration. Addiction is the feeling that you can't control your urge to take a stimulant drug regardless of its negative side effects. Signs of addiction include more than your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on a drug or experiencing negative adverse effects.
Other health issues that may be caused by the use of stimulant medications include suicidal and depression. If you think you or someone you know might be using these substances to harm themselves or others, you should contact your local police station or other authorities right away.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are two of the most commonly used stimulants used to treat ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. adhd uk medication are usually taken one or twice per day.
The amphetamines with a longer-acting action perform better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They can last anywhere from six to eight hours and can assist you in navigating your day with less "ups" and"downs.
Extended-release stimulants can be combined with an immediate-release medication during the afternoon. This is beneficial should your ADHD symptoms start to appear late in the day or you find yourself with irritation due to the medication fading early.
To help you sleep, a small dose of an elongating stimulant may be taken before bed. It's not recommended to consume this medicine on an empty stomach, since it could cause a decline in energy and could cause you to sleep poorly.
During the early phases of treatment, insomnia is an extremely common side effect associated with stimulants. It is possible to minimize this by not taking the medicine before bed and getting enough rest on a regular basis.
Another possible side effect of stimulants is anxiety. It can be mild to severe and can cause tics. These are sudden sounds or movements like eye blinking, throat clearing, or throat clearing. It can also aggravate an existing depression or bipolar disorder.
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure are also possible, though these effects are typically minor. If you are beginning to use stimulants for ADHD your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart function.
Insomnia is also a potential adverse effect of ADHD medication. This issue can be cured if you take stimulants using prescription sleep aids or if you use techniques for relaxation or meditation prior to going to sleep.