Best Medication For ADHD

Most children and teenagers who are taking ADHD medication find they concentrate better, are less impulsive, feel calmer and get on with their schoolwork. Some individuals may experience a slight slowing of their growth, or an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure when taking these medications.

There are many different types of medications that include liquids, tablets patches, capsules, and tablets (such as Daytrana). The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It comes in three forms: immediate-release extended-release and sustained-release.

medications for adhd of the best medications for ADHD is a class called stimulants. These drugs help improve concentration and attention by altering certain neurotransmitters within the brain, especially dopamine and norepinephrine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex that is often called the brain's "secretary" because it aids with planning and organizational abilities.

Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The short-acting drugs peak in 30 to 45 minutes and should be taken twice or three times a day. Amphetamines like Adderall and Dexedrine and methylphenidates such as Ritalin, Concerta and Ritalin are among these. Amphétamines are stronger and last longer, but they all work in the same way in improving focus and attention. Certain stimulant medicines are available in extended-release versions. They are the best choice because they last between 8 to 12 hours and are usually taken every day. Some of these medications are a powder that is mixed with liquid to make drinks, while others are in pill form.

It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will watch how you respond to the various types of drugs and alter the dosage as required. Medications should only be used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan, which should include behavioral therapy and support services.


Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes a bit longer to work, but it can help you feel in control, increase your concentration and impulsivity and increase your concentration. These medications do not alter dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way stimulants do. They are therefore able to be employed for a longer duration. They also have less side effects, such as constipation, heartburn and lessened sex drive. The first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is known as Strattera, and it's an inhibitor of the selective norepinephrine reuptake process. Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine, also known as Intuniv or clonidine, that are both medicines within this category.

There are also antidepressants that are not stimulant that are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD. Tricyclic antidepressants from the past like Tofranil(imipramine) are prescribed to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by doctors when stimulants or other non-stimulants do not work or if they cause too many adverse side effects.

Your doctor can also prescribe atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These medications do not have an immediate impact, but they can help reduce the amount of impulsivity that occurs over time and increase concentration. They're in a distinct drug class from the other choices, and they can cause certain side effects like headaches or shaky hands. Your doctor might also suggest a low-dose antidepressant, bupropion (Wellbutrin) which isn't FDA approved for ADHD treatment but can increase concentration and reduce the risk of impulsivity. It can trigger some uncomfortable but usually not serious side effects, such as hearing loss or changes in vision.