ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
For a lot of people stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. Some suffer from adverse reactions or they don't work for everyone.
Doctors sometimes prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medication instead, or in conjunction with stimulants. These include medicines that treat high blood-pressure like clonidine or Guanfacine (Tenex). These are in addition to other medicines that promote wakefulness.
Benefits
Stimulants are among the first drugs doctors usually prescribe to treat ADHD. They work by boosting communication between nerves in the brain. These medications boost the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine which improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are available in different forms however they all are classified into two categories: methylphenidates or amphetamines. Because of their potential for abuse, they are classified as controlled substances. The dosage, distribution, and usage of these drugs are tightly controlled.
Doctors may also prescribe a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant medications. They might do this because a stimulant is not functioning properly, due to the fact that side effects are too extreme, or because the person is suffering from a mental illness that requires treatment. Combination treatments are common in both adults and children.
Viloxazine, guanfacine, and Atomoxetine are all non-stimulant drugs. These medicines are generally well tolerated and don't carry the same risks of addiction or abuse like stimulants. They can take longer to get started and do not last as long as stimulants do, but they're often effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD.
The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medication report mild to moderate side effects, such as headaches, stomach upsets, dry mouth, and a general feeling of sleepiness. Some people may have trouble staying awake when taking these drugs. However this is not as much of an issue for children than for adults.
If you're considering medications to help manage your or your child's ADHD discuss with your doctor about it. They'll explain the various medications, their benefits and risks, and how you can start. They'll also assist you to determine the right dosage and medication for your needs.
It may take a few tries to determine the correct dosage and medication. The aim is to manage your ADHD symptoms with the least amount of side effects. Once you've found the best medication, you must stick with it. If you stop taking it, your symptoms will come back. The majority of people suffering from ADHD will require these medications for the rest of their lives.
Dosage
Stimulant medications like Adderall (methylphenidate/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which boosts communication between nerves. This improves focus, concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. It's the primary type of medication that doctors typically prescribe for ADHD. It's not for everyone, and it can have adverse effects that are unpalatable.
Non-stimulant drugs, like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine) are FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults. They reduce symptoms by directly affecting the prefrontal cortices of the brain, creating an euphoric effect. They are usually used in conjunction with stimulant medication, or if the stimulant medication isn't working for you.
Both atomoxetine as well as guanfacine fall in the alpha-2 adrenergic agonists class of medications that is, they work by blocking receptors that transmit dopamine to other cells. This allows other chemicals in the brain, for instance norepinephrine, to reach the brain and produce the effect of calming, which improves attention and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity.
The methylphenidate and amphetamine and other classes of ADHD drugs are effective in decreasing or eliminating symptoms of ADHD. However they can also be misused and addictive, leading to overdose. They're classified as controlled substances and come with "boxed warnings" that alert patients to these risks. These drugs are also prone to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants start to work within 30 minutes and last for between 3 and 4 hours. They can be taken at least three times a day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulates are more difficult to activate, but they can relieve symptoms for between 8 and 16 hours. These stimulants are usually taken every day when you find it difficult to remember to take your medication each day at the same time.
There are some who experience the rebound effect when their medication wears off, and their symptoms revert to their previous levels. This can cause short-lived depression, fatigue and an intense hunger. This can be prevented by adjusting the dosage, time it is taken, or the type of medication. If you're experiencing this issue consult your physician about how you can make adjustments to your medication.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication boosts the levels of dopamine in brain cells, which improves concentration and decreases the impulsive behavior. They may also improve memory and decrease aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These drugs are usually taken orally in capsules however some children consume them in chewable tablets or drops. adhd otc medication can cause side effects like dry mouth, reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping. In some cases, the adverse effects are not severe and disappear once the medication wears away. In certain instances these effects may be serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medicines help to manage ADHD symptoms by targeting various neurotransmitters in the brain. They may also have a lower addiction or dependency risk than stimulants. Common side effects of these medications include drowsiness, loss appetite and dizziness. To minimize drowsiness, take the medication earlier in the day, eat breakfast before the medication starts to take effect and stay clear of caffeine-based drinks.
Many people discover that they are more responsive to the extended or long-acting release versions of these drugs. This is because these formulas will build up slowly in the body, reducing the chance of the drug fading too quickly, the symptoms returning more severe than before. They also help make it easier to take the medication on a regular basis especially when your child or you struggles to keep track of multiple pills.
Most kids and adults who are taking medications for ADHD will experience at least some adverse effects. These side effects can easily be managed by monitoring the reactions of your child or yourself, and adjusting the dosage and following the prescribed dosage. Seek out an expert in mental health when you or your child experience unpleasant or dangerous adverse reactions.
It may take some time to find the right medication for someone suffering from ADHD. In addition, it's not uncommon for a doctor to switch you or your child between the two categories of medications--stimulant and non-stimulant--because one isn't effective or causes intolerable side effects.
Monitoring
The most important aspect to be aware of with ADHD medication is that it can assist you to manage your symptoms, but it's not a cure. Your doctor may need to keep an eye on your child or you and alter the dosage until it's effective at controlling your symptoms with no adverse negative effects. The medication is typically only one part of the treatment strategy for ADHD as is therapy and support from family and teachers.
Stimulant medicines are the most common ADHD medications, and they work by increasing levels of brain chemicals that improve focus and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. Side effects can include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches and stomachaches as well as jitteriness and an increased heart rate.
It can be difficult to determine the proper dosage and medication for your child or you. Sometimes, see it here takes between a few weeks and a few months before the benefits of the drug are evident. During this time, it's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and report any side-effects.
While stimulants offer the benefit of being quick-acting, they do be more prone to dependency and abuse. Many people, especially young children and adolescents are reluctant to take them due to this. Non-stimulant medications are just as effective and are better for those who are not able to handle the side effects of stimulants.
There are a variety of non-stimulant drugs, including the atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as dextroamphetamine (Ritalin) and guanfacine (Concerta). Many of these drugs have been approved by the U.S. adhd no medication and Drug Administration to treat other conditions however, they are also employed "off-label" to treat ADHD.
A recent study has found that the long-term use ADHD medications is associated with an increased risk for CVD. The risk increased as the dosage of medication was increased and was more prevalent for boys and girls. Researchers recommend that patients be monitored closely and have regular health screenings. This is especially true for those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is particularly true if there is a family history of cardiovascular disease.