Prescriptions that treat ADHD

In the last decade, awareness of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has increased significantly. Approximately one in 10 children meet the criteria for the disorder, and more parents than ever before are seeking medicinal treatment for these kids. The most commonly prescribed treatments for ADHD are psychostimulant medications such as methylphenidate, amphetamine, and atomoxetine.

Name brands like Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall, and Strattera have all been thoroughly researched and found to be both safe and effective for treating ADHD. Such medications have been shown to help children with ADHD follow social conventions and strengthen their relationships with friends and family. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, “medication works best when treatment is regularly monitored by the prescribing doctor and the dose is adjusted based on the child's needs.”

Experts emphasize that treatments for ADHD are not “one size fits all”; parents must work with their child’s doctor to find a plan that works for them. Stimulant medications like the ones listed above can be administered in several different forms, including pills, skin patches, and liquids. Most are approved for children who are at least 6 years old, although there are some that can be prescribed for children over age 3.

To learn more about prescriptions that can help treat ADHD, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can explain the various treatment plans and find one that works for you and your child. By using your True Dental Discounts membership, you can save on all kinds of prescriptions – including ones that treat ADHD.

What is a generic medication?

Generic medications are generally created after the patent of a name-brand medication has expired. At this time, pharmaceutical companies can get the approval of the FDA to sell an equivalent product under a new name. The Generic Pharmaceutical Association explains that in order for a pharmaceutical manufacturer to be approved to market a generic drug, the drug must contain the same active ingredient; be identical in strength and dosage; and be equal in strength, purity and quality.

It also must be manufactured under the same strict regulations as the brand-name drug. Generic drugs can be found by asking your doctor or pharmacist about their availability. In general, most prescriptions can be substituted with a generic alternative, but it's always a good idea to check ahead of time. Because of the FDA's strict guidelines about the making of generic drugs, consumers should be assured that their generic drugs will be of the same quality and effectiveness as the brand name product.

The Generic Pharmaceutical Association cautions people to not be thrown off by a difference in color or presentation; often, this is just to respect the patent of the original drug. Cosmetic differences will not impact the functionality of any prescription. For more information about purchasing generic medicines, talk to your pharmacist or doctor about the options available to you. Generic drugs are a great way to maximize your savings, especially when you combine them with your True Dental Discounts - discount card.

Communicating with your health care professional can help keep you safe

Many people who get a prescription from their doctor don't think twice before adding it to their daily routine. They might glance at the dosage, but never give a second thought to what other factors go into a good prescription. Yet, there are many personal habits and health concerns that must be addressed before committing to a particular type of medicine. The National Council on Patient Information and Education suggests that you maintain regular communication with your doctor or pharmacist about the following issues:

• Any ongoing or past medical conditions, and the overseeing doctor;
• The names of all medicines you are currently taking, including sleeping aids, laxatives, vitamins, herbal remedies, pain relievers, and both prescription and non-prescription medicines;
• Any problems you've experienced with certain types of medications;
• Any known allergies to medicines or substances;
• If you are, or could become, pregnant.

Each of these items represents an important part of your prescription health, and having open communication with your health care professional can help to ensure that you do not take a potentially harmful medication. Many people do not realize that their small day-to-day habits and their "non-medications" such as dietary supplements can impact the effectiveness of any new medication. Be sure to talk about these issues with your doctor, and, as always, show him or her your True Dental Discounts, discount prescription card to guarantee you're getting the best prescriptions for your money.