There are various ADHD medications on the market that are used to treat adult and children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, also known as ADD. However, as many of these medications are subject to the individual's reaction to them, there is no one common medication for all ADHD sufferers. The ADHD sufferer will have to try a range of different medications before finding the right one that suits him or her. The right medication can help manage ADHD symptoms—such as poor concentration, hyperactivity, and impulsivity—so that sufferers can lead their lives more satisfyingly.
The first ADHD medication to administer is called Stimulants. They stimulate and increase brain activity in definite areas for impulse control, attention and focus. ADHD medications help to reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and poor concentration. Despite that the stimulants help ADHD sufferers gain better self control and focus on completing routine tasks, they make no improvement to social interaction and academic achievement.
The two common ingredients contained in ADHD stimulant medications are Methylphenidate and Amphetamines.
Methylphenidate is the preferred choice as it has fewer side effects. It comes in short (Ritalin, Focalin), medium (Ritalin SR, Metadate ER, Methylin ER) and long acting durations (Concerta, Rilatin LA, Metadate C).
Amphetamines is the next choice if an ADHD sufferer does not respond to Methylphenidate. While Dexedrine and Dextrostat last up to a short 6 hours, Adderall is available in both medium and long acting durations.
When the stimulants do not work for an ADHD sufferer, Antidepressants and Atomoxetine would be used.
Atomoxetine is a non-stimulant medication that is used after two unsuccessful treatments with stimulants.
One important factor to consider is the side effects of medications used in ADHD treatment. While most of the drugs used only have some minor side effects, others are more serious. The common ones in children are loss of appetite, sleep disturbances and nervousness. In rare cases, some stimulants can lead to moodiness, tics and psychosis. The used of ADHD medications such as Dexedrine, Adderall and Concerta are strongly warned about potential heart attacks and other cardiovascular risks. Thus for the ADHD sufferer who has a personal or family history of heart problems, the possible side effects of ADHD medications are particularly serious.
Although there is no cure for ADHD, the right medication can help control the ADHD conditions in the short term. It is prudent for doctors to weigh the side effects against the benefits before prescribing ADHD medications. It must also be emphasized that the medications do not treat the causes of ADHD. The underlying causes of ADHD should be determined and dealt with through behavioral therapy or counseling before resorting to medications.
There are various ADHD medications on the market that are used to treat adult and children who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, also known as ADD.
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