ADHD Otc Medication: A Simple Definition
ADHD Medication - Choosing the Right One
The use of medication can be a crucial part of treatment for ADHD. Finding the right medication can take a long time, as different medications affect people differently.
Stimulants raise levels of brain chemicals that help focus and control impulses. They can also trigger adverse effects such as shaking hands, stomach discomfort and increased heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that "stimulate" brain activity and processes. They can boost concentration, alertness and energy levels and help to improve focus. They can also increase blood pressure and heart rate.
They can trigger side effects like decreased appetite or trouble sleeping, but are generally safe to use for long-term use. They're typically taken once or twice per day according to the medication. They're available in liquid, pill or chewable forms. Some are short-acting and last only a few minutes. Some are long-acting and stay within the body for 16 hours.
People with ADHD often have difficulty paying attention and following directions. They can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. This can have a negative impact on their academic, social and professional lives. There are a variety of methods to treat ADHD. Adults suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed medication. There are a variety of FDA approved drugs for treating the condition. They include stimulants and nonstimulants.
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine and salts of dextroamphetamine (Adderall), and Atomoxetine (Strattera). These medications affect brain chemicals, including norepinephrine as well as dopamine. They're believed to improve attention and decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity, and restlessness.
Certain people suffering from ADHD are tempted to misuse stimulants, which are often sold illegally or prescribed to another person. Misusing stimulants can lead to health problems, such as addiction. It can also increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Other medications that treat ADHD are not able to affect the same chemical as stimulants. These include clonidine guanfacine and Atomoxetine. These are helpful for people who are unable to take stimulant drugs or have a medical issue that makes them excessive. These medicines require longer to get started however, they can increase the ability of an individual to pay attention and control their emotions.
If you are considering taking medication to treat ADHD, it's important to consult with your doctor. medications for adhd find that medication doesn't work for them. They can reduce their symptoms through lifestyle changes and behavior therapy. Medications can interact with other drugs which is why it's crucial to inform your doctor about any medication you or your child takes, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Other drugs and alcohol that stimulate the nervous system should be avoided by those with ADHD who are taking stimulant ADHD medication. This includes a few over-the-counter cold and cough medications, some diet supplements, and some over-the-counter drugs that can make you feel anxious. Stimulant ADHD medications can intensify the effects of alcohol, which means that even a small drink can result in feeling of drunkenness more quickly than it would in people who do not take the medication. Before taking stimulants, people suffering from depression or other mood disorders should to consult their doctor. They may need to adjust their dosage or stop taking medications. You should also be able to sleep earlier as stimulant ADHD medication can make it difficult to fall asleep.