Choosing the Right Medication For ADHD

Medicine can help to manage ADHD symptoms, but it won't cure them. It could take some time to find the right dosage and medication for you or your child. Communication that is honest and open with your doctor is essential.

Stimulants

These drugs are the first treatment for children and adults with ADHD. They increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the most popular medications prescribed by healthcare professionals to people suffering from ADHD. These drugs increase levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in the brain that affect attention, focus and movement. About 70 to 80% children and adults with ADHD experience improvement in their symptoms when they find the right stimulant and dosage.

Doctors usually prescribe methylphenidates (including atomoxetine, Ritalin) as the first-line treatment for kids and teens with ADHD. They may also prescribe amphetamines that are more effective for adults and cause fewer side effects. Stimulants affect two brain chemicals: norepinephrine, and dopamine. Heart patients should be closely monitored when taking stimulants.

adhd medication uk for adults , both adults and children, who use stimulants may experience some side effects. However, the majority of the time the side effects go away after a few weeks or less. If they don't, talk to your doctor about changing the medication or looking for an alternative that is better for you or your child.


Some of the most common side effects of stimulants include the loss of appetite, sleeplessness and difficulty staying awake. Some people develop personality changes. They may become more withdrawn, listless or rigid or display obsessive-compulsive behaviours. Some may experience a worsening of depression or anxiety, which is why it is important to consult with an expert in mental health before beginning stimulant medications for ADHD.

Stimulants raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may make some people feel shaky or anxious. They can also cause headaches, stomachaches and loss of appetite. They can also lead to an increased risk of substance abuse. They aren't habit-forming when they are in the low doses used to treat ADHD, but they can be addictive if used in excessive doses.

Non-stimulant drugs require longer to get started and do not last longer than stimulants, however, they can help improve attention and focus and reduce impulsivity. These drugs are primarily built on antidepressants, and they work on norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They can be prescribed alone or in combination with stimulants. This is especially relevant when a person has anxiety, depression and ADHD.

Students with ADHD treated with medication can achieve GPAs that are comparable to their peers if they adhere to excellent study habits. A recent study revealed that college students with ADHD who took medication to control symptoms improved their grades by one letter grade.

Most medications for ADHD fall into one of two drug classes: amphetamines and methylphenidates. Amphetamines have a higher potential for abuse and dependency than methylphenidates. But the newer longer-acting atomoxetine as well as bupropion (Wellbutrin) have lower risk of dependence and misuse. Some people take a single dose of a long-acting drug that has an immediate release dose in the afternoon to lower their fluctuations in concentration. Other medications for ADHD that aren't classified as either methylphenidates or amphetamines include desmethyldimethylphenidate (Dexamethylpropion) and guanfacine (Narcan). The following chart outlines the class of medication, the generic name, brand name and length of action.