8 Tips To Up Your ADHD Medication List Game ADHD Medication List - Stimulants

Stimulants boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).

Doctors may also prescribe older types of antidepressants known as tricyclics to treat ADHD. These medications can cause severe side effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them if stimulants don't work or cause intolerable symptoms.


Stimulants

Stimulants are the most frequently used medications to treat ADHD in children and adults. These drugs increase the amount of dopamine that is present in your brain. This improves concentration, reduces fatigue and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity in most people who take these drugs. Around 70% to 80 percent of those with ADHD are able to benefit from stimulants. These drugs aren't habit-forming in the doses used to treat ADHD, but they do have a potential for abuse and addiction. People with an history of drug or alcohol abuse, or a family history of substance or mental health issues may be at higher risk for this.

The most commonly used stimulants to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. They are available as generics that are cheaper than brand-name drugs and are favored by a variety of insurance companies. Some of these medicines are available as extended-release tablets that you can take one time each week for up to 16 hours. This could result in less "ups and downs" of symptoms, which can be especially helpful for school-aged children.

Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes and generally last for around four hours. They can be taken twice or three times daily. They are usually the first type of medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these medications are available in tablets, chewable or liquid form, or patches that go on the skin.

Long-acting and intermediate stimulants can last up 16 hours and are taken every day in the morning. They can help prevent the peaks in effectiveness that occur after the short-acting stimulation has slowed down which can result in extreme hunger and a lack of energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants may supplement them by taking a small amount of immediate-release medication in the afternoon and evening.

There are a number of possible side effects that can be triggered by taking stimulants to treat ADHD that can cause headaches, stomachaches, nervousness loss of appetite, and sleepiness. Most of these side-effects are mild to moderate and they will go away within a couple of weeks after your body adjusts. Consult your physician in the event that the side effects are extreme or persist after a few weeks.

Non-stimulants

These medications are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These medications are called non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications are generally considered to have an lower risk of misuse than stimulants, but they could still cause insomnia, agitation or anxiety.

Talk to your doctor about how you evaluate the risks and benefits of each treatment option. see this will take into consideration your medical history, the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other medical conditions or illnesses you suffer from. They will also look at the effects each medication has on your child or you, and how it works with other treatments. You'll have to inform your doctor about any food drinks, supplements or foods that you or your child take and whether you're taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications including antidepressants.