A number of new medications have gained recent FDA approval for treatment of ADHD in both adults and children Ritalin remains one of the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications, but new prescriptions are on the market and worth looking into. Each medication comes with benefits and warnings, so you should talk to your doctor to see if the new medications will work for yourself or your child.
Focalin XR
Focalin XR is a time-released medication that can be used by both children and adults. The medication contains stimulants that improve and regulate brain function. The FDA has declared that Focalin XR is safe for children over the age of six, teens, and adults. The medication within Focalin XR is granulated and can be sprinkled into applesauce for children who cannot swallow a large capsule.
Focalin XR is not to be used by those who have had seizures or any underlying heart issues. The stimulants used in the medication can be detrimental to those with heart conditions.
Metadate CD
Released in 2001, Metadate CD is different from its competitors because it releases a rapid dose of the medication shortly after taking the pill. A second, lighter dose is released later in the day. This ensures that the medication is not wearing off too quickly in school-aged children.
The medication has proven effective in controlling behavioral issues. The side effects are minimal and include loss of appetite, headache, insomnia, and stomach pains.
Monica NRP104
The medications within Monica NRP104, Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate, require stomach acid to release the stimulants within the pill. The ADHD medication is not yet on the market, but it is believed it will be soon.
In a study done on a group of children, those who took the actual medication saw a tremendous improvement in their concentration and behavior. Side effects are pretty typical and include insomnia, loss of appetite, and in rare cases anorexia.
Ritalin LA
Ritalin LA became available to the public in the summer of 2003. The medication is slowly released over a twelve hour time period. In all studies, the medication showed dramatic improvements in ADHD patients' concentration and behavior.
Ritalin LA is a stimulant that improves the brain function in adults and children. It is important that the medication not be chewed or crushed, which can make it difficult for young children to handle.
Ritalin LA's most common side effects include anxiety and nervousness. This can lead to weight loss, so monitor a child's weight closely while he or she is taking the medication.
Strattera
Strattera is the first brand new ADHD medication in more than thirty years. Straterra does not act as a stimulant. Often, patients with ADHD are prescribed a stimulant that is believed to make the brain chemicals work more effectively, which helps regulate the behaviors that occur with ADHD. Unfortunately, many of the stimulants that are used to help ease the hyperactivity are not much different from the illegal drugs crystal meth or cocaine. No parent wants their child becoming hooked on these substances.
The FDA has issued warnings regarding Strattera and an increased risk of depression and/or suicide. If you decide to try Strattera, it is important to closely monitor any behavioral changes that may occur.
The medication within Strattera, atomoxetine, slowly releases into the blood stream so that children and adults need only take one pill per day. This alone makes this medication worthwhile for many patients who find it hard to stick to a regular medication schedule.
Vyvanse
The ADHD medication known as Adderall XR recently underwent a transformation. Due to the high risk of addiction to ADHD medications and the general knowledge that a generic version of Adderall XR would soon become available, the manufacturer of Adderall XR tweaked its formula to create a drug that is hard to abuse. The resulting product, Vyvanese, is an amphetamine-based medication that helps to regulate the brain chemical fluxes that can cause the hyperactivity in children and adults.
If anyone tries to snort or inject the medication, it simply will not work. The chemical formula of the medication utilizes a safeguard that restricts the drug's effectiveness when it is not taken orally. The medication only works when the active ingredient comes into contact with your stomach acids.
