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The most common medications used to treat ADHD are drugs belonging to a category of drugs called psychostimulants. These drugs include amphetamines such as Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts), Adderall XR (mixed amphetamine salts extended-release), Desoxyn (methamphetamine), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), Dexedrine Spansules (dextroamphetamine), and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine). Many other stimulants contain methylphenidate, including drugs such as Ritalin, Methylin, Concerta, Metadate, Daytrana (methylphenidate transdermal).
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) and Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate extended-release) are, simply put, simply more potent forms of methylphenidate also used for ADHD.
Amphetamines work by increasing levels of the monoamines dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Methylphenidate and dexmethylphenidate have no clinically significant effect on serotonin.
By increasing extra cellular concentrations of monoamines there is increased receptor binding leading to enhanced cellular communication. For the most part the areas of the brain that are most stimulated are the under active areas that control impulse (and other things). As a result the under active areas "wake up" and are better able to control impulse and concentration.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant FDA approved for ADHD typically used in people who fail to properly respond to stimulants, for people with substance abuse problems, and some doctors used Strattera as a first time treatment despite the fact Strattera is not nearly as effective as stimulants. Strattera is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, more similar to antidepressants than other FDA approved ADHD medication. Strattera acts by inhibiting the norepinephrine transporter (NET), preventing norepinephrine from going back into the pre-synaptic cell which increased receptor binding.
The drugs Catapres (clonidine) and Tenex (guanfacine) are also popular and can be taken alone or more commonly taken with a stimulant. These drugs also reduce side effects like insomnia. The FDA has recently approved
Intuniv (guanfacine extended-release) and Kapvay (clonidine extended-release) for ADHD, particularly when taken with a stimulant.
Off label medication are sometimes used including the antidepressant Wellbutrin (bupropion), and the "wake promoting agents" Provigil, Alertec (modafinil) and Nuvigil (armodafanil). Typically these drugs are only used when traditional stimulants fail or are added to stimulants.
There are a number of other drugs that may be used depending on the severity and symptoms of the ADHD.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) including Tofranil (imipramine), Norpramin (desipramine), and Aventyl, Pamelor (nortriptyline) have some evidence they are useful for ADHD.
There is no "best" drug as each drug works differently with each individual. In some cases, medication is not effective for unknown reasons but 70-90% of people do respond to medication.
As always talk to your doctor about treatment.
What else can I help you with?
What medications are used to treat ADHD in Sri Lanka?
Ritalin
Can Xanax be used to treat ADHD?
Xanax is the brand-name for a benzodiazepine; Benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety and generally can be safely prescribed with most ADHD medication. This drug may decrease the effectiveness of some ADHD medications. Consult your pharmacist to be safe.
Which medications treat depression and AD D in adults?
Methyl Phenidate is used in ADHD and can be also used in depressive disorder.
Does ADHD cause dilated pupils?
My eyes do it looks like I'm taking heroin
Are Barbiturates helpful to people with ADHD?
Barbiturates are not typically used to treat ADHD and are generally considered outdated for managing attention disorders. Instead, stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines are the standard treatments for ADHD due to their effectiveness in improving focus and reducing impulsivity. Barbiturates are sedative medications primarily used for anxiety, seizures, and sleep disorders, and they carry a risk of dependence and overdose. Therefore, they are not a recommended option for ADHD management.
Which Is better Adderall or Xanax for anxiety?
These are 2 totally different medications. Adderall is a stimulant used to treat ADHD and Xanax is a sedative used for anxiety. So to answer your question, xanax is better.
What are biological treatments for ADHD?
Biological treatments for ADHD include stimulant medications (such as methylphenidate and amphetamine) that can help improve focus and attention. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and guanfacine are also used to treat ADHD by targeting different neurotransmitters in the brain. In some cases, doctors may recommend behavioral therapy or dietary interventions, but medication is often a primary form of treatment for ADHD.
Does taking ADHD medications affect ones lifespan?
There is not enough evidence to suggest that taking ADHD medications affects one's lifespan. ADHD medications are generally considered safe and effective when used as prescribed, and many individuals with ADHD experience improvements in their symptoms and quality of life while taking these medications. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to monitor and manage any potential side effects.
What happens if you take intuniv and dont have ADHD?
It's used to treat other things besides ADHD, as well.
When do medications for ADHD start to work?
The most common class of medications used for ADHD, stimulants, take twenty to forty minutes to begin to improve symptoms. Other medications such as Strattera, a non-stimulant, can take up to two weeks before improving ADHD symptoms.
Can ADHD medications cause increased sweating?
Yes, a common side effect of most ADHD medications is increased sweating.
What is Wellbutrin Concerta?
Wellbutrin and Concerta are two different medications used to treat mental health conditions. Wellbutrin, the brand name for bupropion, is primarily prescribed for depression and to help with smoking cessation. Concerta, which contains methylphenidate, is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Both medications work on neurotransmitters in the brain but have distinct mechanisms and uses.
