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How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication

Medical treatments can ease ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter called norepinephrine in the brain.

Children with ADHD are most commonly prescribed stimulants.

You can choose between the short- or long-acting doses. They are more effective and last for 8-12 hours. They must be taken just once per day. They also limit the effect of rebound, in which symptoms can return, and are often more severe than before, as the medication wears off.

Stimulants

ADHD medication providers most often prescribe stimulants. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, known as dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps you focus and pay attention.

However, stimulants can have adverse effects, particularly when used for a long duration. Consult your physician about the potential side effects of these medications, such as possible changes in mood, appetite and heart rate as well as how they affect your sleep.

If you take an anti-stimulation medication for long periods of time, you could be at risk of becoming addicted or misuse. Addiction is when you feel you can't control your desire to take an item, even if it causes harmful side effects. Signs of addiction include more than what your doctor recommends or feeling dependent on a drug or experiencing negative side effects.

The use of stimulant drugs can also cause other health issues like depression or suicidal thoughts. If you suspect that you or someone else you know might be taking these medications to harm themselves or others, contact your local police station or other authorities right away.

The most popular stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidate (brand-name medication Ritalin, Concerta or Dexamphetamine). Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. These medications are usually taken once or twice daily.

The amphetamines with a longer-acting action perform better than their shorter-acting counterparts. adhd treatment medication last from six to eight hours, and help you through your day with less "ups and downs."


It is common to use extended-release stimulants in conjunction with an immediate-release medication in the mid-to late afternoon. This is helpful in the event that your ADHD symptoms start to manifest late in the day , or if you notice that you are experiencing anxiety due to the medication's effects fading earlier.

To help you fall asleep A small dose of an effective stimulant that lasts for a long time can be taken before bed. You shouldn't take this medication if you aren't hungry. It could cause sleep problems and energy loss.

In the beginning of treatment, insomnia can be an extremely common side effect of stimulants. It can be reduced by not taking the medication at night and by getting enough sleep regularly.

Another side effect of stimulants is anxiety. It may be mild or serious and can cause tics. These are uncontrollable movements or sounds, like eye blinking or throat clearing. It can also cause a flare-up in a history of depression or bipolar disorder.

Changes in heart rate and blood pressure can also occur, although the effects are usually mild. If you start taking stimulants to treat ADHD Your doctor might prescribe medication to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

ADHD medication can also cause insomnia. This problem can be alleviated if you take stimulants with prescription sleep aids or if you use relaxation or meditation techniques before going to sleep.