While some people still believe that the only medication used to treat ADHD is Ritalin, in reality several drugs have been proven effective at helping people with ADHD manage symptoms. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and is also known as Attention Deficit Disorder or (ADD). Determining the best medicine is not about evaluating the medications, but evaluating how they work for the person with ADHD. While all of the medications on the market have similar effects, they also have different benefits and risks.
Types of Medications
Only two types of medications have been approved for the treatment of ADHD: stimulants such as Ritalin or Adderall and Atomoxetine better known as Strattera. However, doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to treat ADHD. Antidepressants known to be prescribed to treat ADHD symptoms include: bupropion (Wellbutrin), reboxetine (Edronax), venlafaxine (Effexor), desipramine (Norpramin, Pertofrane), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil) fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa) or paroxetine (Paxil).
Evaluating Medical History
Before any medications can be considered, the doctor will need to evaluate the person's medical history. This can have an effect on which type of medication is considered. For example, patients with a history of heart problems such as an irregular heartbeat might not be given stimulants while patients with liver problems won't be prescribed Strattera.
Evaluating Lifestyle
Lifestyle can play a part in what medication will work best as well, especially in regards to stimulant medications. Stimulants are shorter acting than other medications with effects that last anywhere from three to 12 hours. Twenty years ago, the only stimulant medications available on the market were short-acting (three to five hours), which meant several doses were needed during the day. In recent years, longer acting variations of the same medications have been released which can last anywhere from eight to 12 hours. This makes it easier for students since they are not required to take the medication during the school day. Sometimes people will take a short-acting dose of their medication after the long-acting dose has worn off to stay focused until the end of the day.
Finding the Right Dose
Finding the right dosage can be tricky because it is not determined by age or weight, but by the person's individual metabolism. Doctors will often start out with a low dose, and gradually increase the medication until the effects taper off or the side effects are too problematic.
Evaluating the Drug's Effectiveness
Most people with ADHD--especially children--have difficulty with self-awareness. Because they do not see what effect ADHD plays on their lives, it is difficult for them to judge if the medication is working. Most doctors will rely on the opinions of parents, spouses and teachers as a guide on how well the medication is working.
Being Proactive
The moment medication is considered as part of a treatment for ADHD, it is important for the person and anyone involved to become as educated as possible on the different medications, the side effects and the effects. People newly on medication for ADHD (as well as those around them) often misunderstand what effect the medication actually has on them. No the medications used to treat ADHD are miracle pills that make all the symptoms go away. Some symptoms may need to be managed with behavior modification or other treatments. In other words, "pills don't teach skills."
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