ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
The stimulants are used to boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. Amphetamines and methylphenidate belong to the stimulants.
Doctors may also prescribe older classes of antidepressants called tricyclics to treat ADHD. These medications can have serious side effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them if stimulants do not work or cause symptoms that are too severe.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. These drugs increase the amount of dopamine that is present in your brain. This helps improve concentration, decreases fatigue, and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity for the majority of people who use these drugs. About adhd no medication I Am Psychiatry -80 percent of those with ADHD are able to benefit from stimulants. They don't cause addiction in the doses that are used to treat ADHD however they are a risk for abuse and addiction. Those with a history or addiction to alcohol or drugs, or who are part of a family that has a history of mental health or substance abuse issues may be more at risk.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the most common stimulants used in treating ADHD. Generics are less expensive than brand name drugs and are favored by most insurance companies. There are some that are available as extended-release tablets which are taken daily and last for up to 16 hours. This could result in less "ups and downs" of symptoms, which can be particularly beneficial for children in school.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) start working in 30 to 45 minutes. They last approximately four hours. You can take them twice or three times a day. They are usually the first prescription medication your doctor prescribes. Certain medications are available in liquid, chewable tablets or patches that can be applied to the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants may last for as long as 16 hours when taken each day in the early morning. They can stop the peaks and dips in effectiveness that occur when short-acting stimulants lose their effectiveness, which can cause extreme hunger and a lack of energy. Many people who take long-acting stimulants supplement them with a small amount immediate-release medication during the afternoon and evening.
There are a variety of possible adverse effects from using stimulants for ADHD. These include nausea, headaches nervousness, lack of appetite, and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are moderate to mild and will disappear after several weeks as your body adjusts. Consult your physician in the event that the side effects are severe or don't disappear after several weeks.
Non-stimulants
These medications are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera) varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera) and varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications are less likely to be misused than stimulants, but may still cause agitation, insomnia, or anxiety.
Consult your doctor to help you evaluate the benefits and risks of each option. Your doctor will take into consideration your medical background and the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other illnesses or conditions you may have. They'll also look at how each medication affects you or your child, and how well it works with other treatments. You will need to inform your doctor of any supplements, food items, or beverages you or your child consume in addition to any prescription or over-the-counter medication you're taking, including antidepressants.