ADHD Medication Names
Stimulant ADHD medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) reduce the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by increasing the levels of the hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They are available in immediate release and extended-release tablets, chewable tablets, liquids and capsules and in a patch called Daytrana.
Finding the appropriate dosage and medicine for you or your children is a trial-and failure that requires open communication between the health care team.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed treatment for ADHD. They improve focus and concentration, and reduce the impulsive or hyperactive behavior. The drugs are believed to work by increasing dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter linked with reward and motivation in specific brain circuits.
Methylphenidate (MPH; Ritalin and Concerta) and dextroamphetamine-AMP (d-AMP; Adderall) are the two most common stimulants. They are available in chewable and liquid tablet forms and are consumed at least two or three times per every day. They may temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate, but are usually not dangerous for the majority of people.
Other medications may have the same effect, but are less effective and have more serious side-effects. These include amphetamines (including atomoxetine and guanfacine) and methylenedioxybenzylpiperidine carbamate (MDP; Vyvanse). adhd otc medication can raise blood pressure, but is not dangerous to people who are in good cardiovascular health. It can also trigger an effect known as a rebound, in which symptoms return once the medication wears off.
Prescription stimulants can be abused either knowingly or unknowingly. This can cause dangerous, and sometimes life-threatening side effects. They are classified as controlled substances and taking without a prescription from a doctor or knowingly relying on someone else's prescription is illegal. Prescription stimulants can also trigger addiction, particularly when they are misused and used in a way that is not properly.
In addition to the potential negative side effects, stimulants may have long-term impacts on development and growth. They can make tics more apparent, which are repetitive sounds or movements like eye-blinking or clearing the throat. They can also cause a person to become sleepy and reduce appetite. They may cause minor growth problems in children, but they do not usually affect the final height.
They can also trigger personality changes in certain people, including becoming withdrawn and rigid, or listless. They can also trigger a worsening of anxiety or depression. They're not the first line of treatment for anxiety or depression However, they're frequently used in the event that other medications don't work.
Finding the right medication, dosage and formulation for your child or yourself can take time. Be patient and openly talk with your doctor. They will need to monitor your physical reactions until they find the right drug that reduces ADHD symptoms and minimizes the side effects. They may also recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other nonpharmacological treatments to manage your symptoms.