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ADHD Medications Stimulants are often the first medicine doctors try to control symptoms. They increase levels of two chemical messengers in the brain called norepinephrine and dopamine. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, sold under the brand names Ritalin (Vyvanse) and Concerta (Ritalin). They can reduce appetite, which causes weight reduction in children. They also raise blood pressure and heart rate. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin) is the most frequently used stimulant medication to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain. It is available in chewable, liquid tablet, or capsule form. The long-acting tablets and orally disintegrating tablets deliver medicine immediately, while the capsules release a steady amount of medication over time. You should not consume alcohol while taking these medications. Medications like methylphenidate stimulate brain regions that are inactive in ADHD patients, for example the ones involved in concentration. They improve concentration and help with tasks such as listening, following instructions and paying attention. These medications can reduce physical aggression and some other antisocial behaviors. Studies of the effects of methylphenidate on the brain have shown that it boosts levels of dopamine and noradrenaline in the prefrontal cortex and the nucleus accumbens. It does not bind to the transporter of serotonin and does not alter levels of serotonin. This mechanism of action is thought to explain why methylphenidate reduces symptoms of ADHD. Methylphenidate is recommended as a part of a complete treatment program for ADHD that includes counseling and special education. It may cause undesirable effects, such as stomachaches and headaches. It is not recommended to pregnant women. If the benefits of the medication are greater than the risk, it could be taken during pregnancy. Your doctor will give you advice. Methylphenidate is a Schedule II drug, which means it has a significant potential for abuse and addiction. It is also a central nervous system stimulant, and it can increase blood pressure and heart rate in a few people. These effects could be harmful if you have a medical condition that affects the way your body processes blood pressure and heart rate-lowering medications like a fatty liver disease called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or an history of stroke or heart attack. Certain people may experience allergic reactions to methylphenidate. Consult your physician that you suffer from allergies. He or she may be in a position to prescribe a new medication that does not cause these reactions. Amphetamines Amphetamines, a type psychostimulant, are used to treat ADHD. These drugs help by increasing levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. This improves cognitive performance and motivates behavior. They also help in treating narcolepsy, which is a condition that is characterized by excessive sleepiness. Amphetamines are widely available and can be purchased over-the-counter, or by prescription from a physician. Children who don't respond to methylphenidate – the first treatment of the first line for ADHD in the United States – are sometimes prescribed amphetamines. adhd and anxiety medication conducted seven random controlled studies of amphetamines in children and adolescents with ADHD (dextroamphetamine [Vyvanse] and lisdexamfetamine or mixed amphetamines salts). The results showed that amphetamines were superior to placebo for reducing the severity of core ADHD symptoms. However, the majority of studies were prone to a high chance of bias. It is hard to tell if the differences between the amphetamines studied are genuine. The authors looked at different doses of the drug, but found no distinction between sustained-release and immediate-release formulations. The authors also examined the effect of varying the length of time taken daily, but again no differences were observed. The researchers also looked into whether the combination of l- and d-amphetamine was more effective than d'amphetamine on its own, which is what is normally used as the main ingredient in Adderall. The researchers found that d-amphetamine alone was not as effective as the combination. The authors concluded that the short duration of the study as well as the restrictive inclusion criteria hinder their external validity. It is beneficial to conduct longitudinal RCTs that have longer follow-up periods and employ objective outcomes, which can't be influenced if blinding failure occurs. Future RCTs could also employ multiple comparator drugs to increase the accuracy of their findings. Current guidelines recommend lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate as the primary drug treatment for adults with ADHD. If the trial of six weeks of these drugs does not bring about the desired results doctors may switch to dexamfetamine standard which is more quickly broken down into damphetamine, and requires more frequent use. Atomoxetine can be used if dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine do not offer enough benefits to the patient. Long-acting stimulants Stimulant medications ease ADHD symptoms for 70 – 80% children and adults taking these medications. These drugs reduce hyperactivity, interrupting and fidgeting behaviors as well as other disruptive behaviors. They also improve focus, academic performance, and social skills. The doctor treating your child may prescribe them as the initial treatment, or they could be used in conjunction with other therapies like behavioral therapy. The medication is available in liquids, pills, or patches that are put on the skin. If your child starts taking these medications, their healthcare providers will monitor the body's response to determine the appropriate dose. They will also look for any side effects. Long-acting stimulants relieve symptoms all day long without the need to retake dosages. They have a delayed release component and the medication enters your body at different times. This provides consistent coverage for up 8 hours. They also have a lower chance of abuse and diversion than stimulants with short-acting effects. Medications that help people with ADHD improve their attention, focus and impulsivity typically are classified into two drug classes that include amphetamines or methylphenidates. The medication alters the levels of dopamine in the brain. adhd anxiety medication of these medications could take up to a week. Your doctor may begin you on a lower dose and gradually increase it. The kind of stimulant your child is taking is dependent on a variety of aspects, such as age, weight, and whether your child is allergic or not to the drug. Inform your doctor if your child is taking any other medications, whether OTC or prescription, vitamins and supplements. Certain medications can have adverse effects if taken together with other substances. Your doctor should be aware of what you and your child are taking. Stimulant medications can have side effects, such as sleepiness, loss of appetite and headaches. These side effects usually go away after a few weeks or months, but should you still experience them, then consult your doctor. You may be able reduce side effects by taking your medication with food or altering the dosage. Short-acting stimulants If you or your child has ADHD there's a high chance that medication can help. Studies show that around 70%-80 percent of children and adults with ADHD improve by taking ADHD medication. These medications reduce symptoms like hyperactivity, fidgeting, interruptions, as well as difficulties staying focused or performing tasks. People who suffer from this condition typically have fewer issues at home and in school and have more stable relationships. Stimulants alter the levels of the chemicals in your brain that are known as norepinephrine or dopamine. They're the first medication that doctors recommend for adults and children with ADHD. Methylphenidate, also known as Adderall and Ritalin are two of the most frequently prescribed stimulants. Doctors can also prescribe extended-release forms of these medications that last between six and 16 hours. You can take them in the morning, or at various times during the day to avoid peak and troughs in your blood levels. Your child or you may need to test different dosages and medications before you find the one that works best for you. The side effects may include stomachaches, headaches, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. These symptoms are typically experienced when a new medication is introduced or the dosage is raised. These effects usually disappear after a while as the body gets used to the medication. Although all medications can cause negative side effects, the majority of people don't experience them often or at all. Consult your doctor immediately if you or your child experiences a bad reaction. In some cases, a person with ADHD is not required to take stimulant medications. This is especially applicable if the individual is able to manage their ADHD with ease or is able to organize his/her life so that ADHD medication is only required in specific circumstances. There are some who may be prescribed non-stimulant ADHD medication, for instance antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin). These do not have FDA approval to treat ADHD but they can be utilized “off label” for this purpose. Nonstimulant medicines may cause less sedation and depression than stimulants, however they can still have some negative effects like agitation or insomnia.