How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication

The use of medications can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the quantity of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine that is found in the brain.

Children suffering from ADHD are most commonly prescribed stimulants.

They are available in both long and short-acting dosages. The ones with longer-acting effects are the most popular because they last for 8-12 hours and must be taken only one time per day. They also limit the rebound effect, where symptoms return, often worse than before, as the medication wears off.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the most frequently used kind of prescription medication healthcare professionals employ to treat ADHD. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, which are known as dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps you concentrate and pay adult attention deficit hyperactivity Disorder medication.

However, stimulants can also cause negative side effects, particularly when used for a prolonged period of. Consult your physician about what to expect while taking these medications, and also about possible changes in mood, appetite and Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Medication heart rate as well as how they affect your sleep.

If you take an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you could be at risk of developing addiction or abuse. Addiction occurs when you feel you can't manage your urge to take the drug, even though it has harmful adverse effects. Addiction may manifest as a desire to take more than your doctor recommends or being dependent on the drug.

Other health issues that may be caused by the use of stimulant medication include depression and suicidal thoughts. If you suspect you or someone you know could be using these substances to harm themselves or others, contact your local police department or other authorities right away.

The most popular stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and the methylphenidate (brand-name medication Ritalin, Concerta or Dexamphetamine). Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. The majority of these medications are taken twice or once daily.

The amphetamines with extended-release releases are more effective than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last from six to eight hours and aid you in getting through your day with less "ups and downs."

You can often use extended-release stimulants with an immediate-release medication during the afternoon between mid-to-late. This is a good option if your ADHD symptoms begin to show up late in the day , or if you experience anxiety due to the medication's effects fading earlier.

In order to help you fall asleep, a small dose of an elongating stimulant may be taken at bedtime. It's not recommended to consume the medication on an empty stomach, since it could cause a loss of energy and could result in a poor sleep.

In the initial phases of treatment, insomnia is an extremely common side effect that occurs with stimulants. It can be alleviated by not taking the medication before the time of bed and getting enough sleep each night.

Another possible side effect of stimulants is anxiety. It can be mild or severe and may lead to tics, which are uncontrollable movements or sounds, like eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also make a history of depression and bipolar disorder.

Although changes in heart beat and blood pressure are possible, these effects are not usually significant. If you are beginning to use stimulants for ADHD, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart function.

ADHD medication can also cause insomnia. This problem can be alleviated by taking stimulants along with prescription sleep aids or using meditation or relaxation techniques prior going to bed.