How To Explain ADHD Medication Names To Your Grandparents ADHD Medication Names

Stimulant ADHD medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the amounts of the hormones dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They are available in liquids and capsules, chewable tablets and extended-release tablets. A patch known as Daytrana is also available.

Finding the appropriate dosage and medicine for you or your children is a process of trial-and error that requires open communication between the health care team.

Stimulants

Stimulants, the most commonly used treatment for ADHD increase concentration and focus. They increase focus and concentration and reduce hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. They are believed to boost dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter that is associated with reward and motivation in certain brain circuits.


Methylphenidate (MPH; Ritalin and Concerta) and dextroamphetamine-AMP (d-AMP; Adderall) are the two most common stimulants. They are available in liquid and chewable tablet form and are taken every two or three hours throughout the day. They can temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate, but are usually not dangerous for most people.

Other medications may produce similar effects, but they're less efficient and often have more serious side effects. These include amphetamines (including atomoxetine and guanfacine) and methylenedioxybenzylpiperidine carbamate (MDP; Vyvanse). adhd and medication can increase blood pressure but is not harmful to people with normal cardiovascular health. It may also lead to a rebound effect that causes symptoms to get worse after the medication wears off.

Prescription stimulants can be abused in a variety of ways, either unknowingly or knowingly. This can lead to dangerous, and sometimes life-threatening adverse effects. They are classified as controlled substances and the use of them without a doctor's prescription or knowingly relying on prescriptions from someone else is illegal. Prescription stimulants are also addictive, especially when they're misused or used improperly.

In addition to the potential adverse effects, stimulants can also have long-term impacts on growth and development. They may cause tics, which are repetitive movements or sounds, such as eye blinking or throat clearing that are more apparent. They can also cause a person to become sleepy and decrease appetite. They can cause minor growth retardation in children. It usually doesn't affect the final height.

Certain people might be prone to personality changes that include becoming more withdrawn, listless, or rigid. They can also cause an increase in depression or anxiety. They aren't a first-line treatment for depression or anxiousness, but are often used when other drugs fail to work.

Finding the right medication, dosage and formulation for your child or for yourself may require a lot of time. Be patient and be open with your doctor. They'll have to track physical reactions until they can find the right medication to relieve ADHD symptoms while minimizing the side effects. They might also suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as other nonpharmacological treatments to help manage your symptoms.