ADHD Medication - Non Prescription ADHD Medication
Stimulants like Ritalin (methylphenidate), Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate), and Adderall boost norepinephrine and dopamine to improve concentration. They also help reduce impulsive behavior and increase energy levels.
Non-stimulants like atomoxetine Qelbree and bupropion may be beneficial if stimulants cause side effects. They increase norepinephrine to lessen ADHD symptoms.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help to change negative thinking patterns that cause ADHD symptoms worse. This could lead to better results both at work and at home.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase brain activity. They are used extensively both legally and illicitly as performance-enhancing drugs and for medical reasons. Cocaine, amphetamines and nicotine are among them. Sometimes her explanation are called psychostimulants or uppers. Some of these drugs are prescribed for ADHD as well as narcolepsy, and to help with weight loss. They are also used recreationally. Doctors must check patients for heart issues prior to prescribing these drugs.
Doctors typically begin with a small dose of stimulant medication, and then gradually increase the dosage. Your parents or you will be asked to track the side effects and effectiveness of the medication. If the first medication does not work or has negative side effects, your doctor will try another. The doctors may also try combinations of medicines. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) for instance, is an antidepressant that often aids in treating ADHD in adults and children. It increases the levels of brain messenger chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine, improving mood and concentration. It is not as effective as a stimulant but can help control symptoms in some people who are not responsive to stimulants or are unable to take them due to other health problems.
Nonstimulant medicines treat various aspects of ADHD like impulsivity, depression and anxiety, or problems with learning. They have fewer adverse effects than stimulants, but they don't seem to be as effective in boosting the quality of attention. They can be taken alone or in conjunction with a stimulant. Examples of non-stimulants include atomoxetine (Strattera), clonidine (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv). Certain doctors also prescribe monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil) or tranylcypromine (Parnate). These older antidepressants increase levels of serotonin as well as norepinephrine in order to improve mood.
A holistic approach is the most effective way to treat ADHD. It should include behavioral strategies as well as support groups, coaching and accommodations. The treatment should be accompanied by lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep and eating a healthy diet. Natural supplements such as Ginkgo can be beneficial. They do not have the same effectiveness as prescription medications, however, and they should only be used under a doctor's supervision.
The right dosage of medication is vital to a good outcome. Finding the right drug or dosage can be challenging, especially since everyone responds differently. It requires patience and trial and error, but a patient should not give up finding the best medicine for his or her health condition. The right medication can change the lives of an adult or child, dramatically improving their ability to focus and follow through on their tasks, and control their behavior and emotions. It can also enhance relationships and self-esteem. Patients should not stop taking their medication unless directed to do so by a doctor. The doctor should also confirm that the patient is not taking any other medications, either prescription or over-the-counter, that could interfere with the medication. This is particularly crucial if the child or adult has a heart problem.