A Guide To ADHD Medication List In 2024
ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine two brain chemicals. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are among the stimulants.
Tricyclics, a more traditional class of antidepressants, are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. However, these drugs can have serious side effects, so doctors usually only recommend them when stimulants do not work or cause intolerable adverse effects.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medications for treating ADHD in children and adults. They help by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. The majority of people who use these drugs find that they increase their concentration, reduce fatigue, and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. About 70-80 percent of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from stimulants. These medications aren't habit-forming in the doses used to treat ADHD, but they could be a source for addiction and abuse. Those with a history or addiction to drugs or alcohol or those who come from an extended family with substance abuse or mental health issues may be more at risk.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulants in treating ADHD. Generics are cheaper than brand-name drugs and are preferred by a majority of insurance companies. Certain of these medications are available in extended-release tablets, which can be taken once every week and last for up to 16 hrs. This can result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which is especially helpful for school-aged children.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) begin working within 30 to 45 minutes. They last about four hours. They can be taken twice or three times daily. They are usually the first medication that your doctor prescribes. Certain of them are available as chewable tablets, liquids or a patch to be placed on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants can last for up to 16 hours when taken daily in the morning. They can stop the peaks and dips in effectiveness that occur when short-acting stimulants wear off, which can cause extreme hunger and fatigue. Many people who are taking long-acting stimulants supplement them with a small amount of immediate-release medications in the afternoon and evening.
There are many possible side effects of taking stimulants to treat ADHD. These include nausea, headaches, inability to eat, nervousness and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are mild to moderate and will disappear within a couple of weeks after your body adjusts. Talk to your doctor when the side effects become severe or don't disappear after some weeks.
Non-stimulants
These are also known as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera) varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine, varenicline and bupropion. Read Home Page of these medications have an lower risk of misuse than stimulants, however they could still cause anxiety, insomnia or agitation.
Consult your physician to help you assess the benefits and risks of each treatment alternative. Your doctor will consider your medical history, your symptoms, and any other medical conditions or illnesses you might have. They'll also consider how each medication affects you or your child, and how well it works with other treatments. You'll need to inform your doctor about any food drinks, supplements or foods you or your child consumes and whether you're taking any other prescription or over-the counter medications such as antidepressants.