There are certain drugs that can control the symptoms of the ADHD.
But some stimulants such as Cylert, Ritalin and Adderall may not be effective to some people.
The alternative is the non-stimulant drugs.
Non stimulants are prescribed if the patients do not respond to stimulants, the effects of the stimulant are too high, and the patient has a history of drug abuse or a heart condition.
There is also a non-stimulant medication and drugs for ADHD.
The non-stimulant therapy is Atomoxetine.
It is an approved non-stimulant for ADHD.
It works on the neurotransmitter called norepinephrine.
It is a treatment that is effective to control the ADHD symptoms but people may become dependent on it because it is not a controlled substance.
It has minimal side effects.
This actually works because it increases the amount of norepinephrine which is an important brain chemical.
This can increase the attention span and reduce hyperactivity and impulsive behavior.
It is effective within two days until to one week.
People suggest that you must wait 4 to 6 weeks before you will say that it is effective.
The side effects include fatigue, upset stomach, nausea, dizziness, mood swings, and decreased appetite that may cause weight loss.
Tricyclic Antidepressant- it is the most frequently used in treating ADHD.
It is typically tried and taken when the patient do not show response to the stimulants.
It increases the amount of norepinephrine in the brain.
It needs to be taken daily.
The common side effects of this include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, headaches, stomachaches, insomnia, vivid dreams and drowsiness.
It may also lead to serious problems such as heartbeat or heart rhythm changes.
It can slow down the conduction of the electrical signal to the heart.
This should be taken and used with caution.
It may increase the risk of seizures in patients with a seizure history.
It is important to consult your doctor for close monitoring.
Bupropion- it has been found to reduce depression and symptoms of the ADHD among many patients.
The side effects are weight loss because of the decreased appetite, irritability, insomnia and worsening of the existing tics.
Anti-Hypertensive Drugs- The clonidine and guanfacine are also used to manage ADHD symptoms.
Before, these are actually used to treat high blood pressure but findings showed that they may help reduce impulsive symptoms and hyperactivity.
Selegiline- it is also used to treat Parkinson's disease.
When taken children may have improvement in learning in the classroom.
It may be taken 5mg twice a day.
But there are mixed results with the adults that have ADHD.
Most people would prefer non-stimulants because stimulants do not relieve symptoms, may cause intolerable side effects, makes medical problems more difficult, and there is other psychiatric diagnosis along with ADHD.
Above all, it is still important for you to ask your doctor about the necessary things that you will do to help and improve your child's learning.
It's still essential to be sure.