The Expert Guide To ADHD Medication

adhd otc medication can help those suffering from ADHD In addition to therapy and counseling. These medicines boost and balance levels of brain chemicals that increase concentration and decrease hyperactivity. It may take some time to find the right medicine for you. Your doctor will observe how the medicine works and assist you in establishing a schedule that suits your needs. Stimulants Certain medications that affect brain chemicals that are involved in ADHD can help improve concentration, focus and impulse control. Doctors prescribe stimulants and nonstimulants. The kind of medication your child or you requires will be determined by the severity of symptoms as well as your medical background. Stimulants are the most popular ADHD drugs. They function by increasing dopamine levels in your brain, which increases the ability to focus and decreases hyperactivity. They are available in both long- and short-acting varieties. Short-acting stimulants only work for a few minutes while long-acting stimulants remain in your body all day. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from stimulant medications. The majority of doctors suggest starting with a small dosage before moving up to the right amount. It may take some time to find the right dose for you or your child. It is also possible to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your doctor in order to alter your dosage. The side effects of stimulant medications are typically minimal and disappear after several days. They can include reduced appetite, sleep problems and a rise in heart rate or blood pressure. If you or your child suffers from an illness that increases the chance of experiencing certain side effects, your doctor will discuss these with you prior to prescribing any medication. In certain cases excessive doses of stimulants could cause a sudden rise in heart palpitations, blood pressure, or even seizures. These medications are not recommended to people with a history or family history of heart disease or a history of drug abuse. The use of stimulants can also cause the worsening of some mental health disorders, like depression and bipolar disorder. Talk to your doctor to determine if these medications are appropriate for you or your children. Non-stimulant ADHD medications are less likely to have severe side effects and are typically considered an alternative treatment for those who don't respond well to stimulants. They may include atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as Clonidine (Kapvay) or guanfacine (Intuniv). Sometimes they are prescribed “off-label” to treat other disorders, such as anxiety or depressive disorders. Drisperidone and Methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. Both are available in liquid, tablet and capsule forms. The tablets are usually taken twice a day or once a day by mouth. Guanfacine and Atomoxetine are available as extended-release tablets that you or your child could wear on the hip (Intuniv and Intuniv XR). These pills are designed to be worn for several weeks at a time until they are required to be replaced. All ADHD medication comes with some risk, and there is always the possibility that they won't perform as expected or cause adverse effects. However, for a lot of people, especially children and teens, the benefits outweigh the risks. The ability to focus, concentrate and control impulses is a significant asset for a lot of people.