ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
For many people stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. Some people have adverse reactions or they don't work.
Doctors may prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medication instead, or in conjunction with stimulants. These include medications that treat high blood pressure, such as clonidine or Guanfacine (Tenex). These are among the other medications that help to increase awakening.
Benefits
Stimulants are the first medications doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They help improve communication between brain nerves. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine which help improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. More suggestions are available in a variety of forms, but they are generally classified into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. They are controlled substances because of the potential for abuse. These medications are strictly regulated in terms of dosage, distribution, and use.
Doctors can prescribe a combination medication that includes stimulants and nonstimulants. They may do this because a stimulant doesn't work well enough, or because of insufferable adverse effects or if a person has an underlying mental health issue that requires to be treated. Adults and children are often treated with combination treatments.
Viloxazine, Guanfacine, and Atomoxetine are medications that are not stimulants. These drugs are well-tolerated and do not carry the same risk of abuse or addiction as stimulants do. They may take longer to get started and don't last as long as stimulants do, however they're often effective in treating symptoms of ADHD.
Most people who take nonstimulant ADHD medication experience mild to moderate side-effects. They can experience stomach upset, headaches and sleepiness. Some people may have difficulty staying awake when taking these drugs. However this is not as much of an issue for children than for adults.
Talk to your doctor If you or your child are contemplating medication for ADHD. They will explain the different medications as well as their advantages and risks and how you can start. They'll also assist you in finding the right dosage and medication that is most suitable for you.
It might require a few attempts to determine the correct dosage and medication. The goal is to control ADHD symptoms with as little side effects as possible. Once you have found the best medication, it's important to keep it in place because when you stop using it, your symptoms will return. Most people suffering from ADHD require these medications throughout 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 concentration, focus and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. It's the first type of medication that doctors usually prescribe for ADHD. It's not suitable for everyone, and it can have adverse effects that are unpalatable.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv(guanfacine) can be used to treat ADHD in adults. They reduce symptoms through direct stimulation of the prefrontal cortices of the brain, resulting in a calm effect. They are usually employed in conjunction with stimulant drugs or if the stimulant medication doesn't work for you.
Both atomoxetine and guanfacine are in the alpha-2 adrenergic agonists class of drugs which means that they work by blocking receptors that send dopamine to other cells. This allows for other chemicals to enter the brain, such as norepinephrine. It has a calming affect and improves attention, as well as reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.
While the amphetamine and methylphenidate classes of drugs are extremely efficient in reducing or eliminating ADHD symptoms but they are also prone to the risk for abuse, addiction, and overdose. These drugs are classified as controlled substances, and have "boxed" warnings that warn users of the risks. They are also susceptible to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants kick in within 30-45 minutes of taking them and last 3-4 hours. They can be taken as many as three times a day. Long-acting and intermediate stimulants are more difficult to activate, but they can provide relief from symptoms for 8-16 hours. These stimulants can be used daily when you find it difficult to remember to take your medication every day at the same time.
There are some who experience the rebound effect as their medication wears off meaning their symptoms return to their previous levels. This can result in short-lasting fatigue, a bad mood and an intense hunger. This can be prevented by altering the dosage, time it is taken or the kind of medication. Speak to your doctor in case you're having this issue.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication increases dopamine levels in brain cells, which aids in concentration and decreases impulse-driven behavior. They can also help improve memory and decrease aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These are typically taken orally in capsules, although some children may take them as chewable tablets or drops. These stimulants could cause side effects, including dry mouth, decreased appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some cases, the adverse effects are not severe and fade as the drug wears off. In other cases, they can be serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medications help manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters inside the brain. They also carry less risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. Common adverse effects of these drugs include drowsiness and loss of appetite, and dizziness. To minimize drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat breakfast before the medication begins to work and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages.
Many people find that they are more responsive to the extended release versions of these medications. This is because these formulas build up gradually in the body, reducing the chance of the drug being worn off too quickly, causing symptoms to return more severe than they were before. They also can make it easier to take the medication on a regular basis, especially in the case that your child has trouble keeping the track of several pills.
Most children and adults who are taking medication for ADHD will experience at least some side effects. These side effects can be controlled by monitoring the reactions of your child or yourself, and adjusting the dosage and taking the medication as prescribed. If you or your child suffers adverse or dangerous side effects, talk to an expert in mental health regarding the possibility of switching to a different kind of medication.
Sometimes, it takes a while to determine the appropriate medication for a person with 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 thing to remember about ADHD medication is that it can help manage your symptoms, but it's not an effective cure. Your doctor may adjust dosage to manage your symptoms while minimizing side effects. Medication is typically just one element of the treatment program for ADHD in addition to therapy as well as support from family and teachers.
The most popular ADHD medication is stimulant. They work by increasing brain chemicals that help improve concentration and decrease the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can cause a variety of side effects, including the loss of appetite, trouble sleeping stomachaches, headaches jitteriness, increased heart rate, and occasionally shaky hands.
It can be challenging to determine the appropriate dose and medication for your child or yourself. Sometimes it takes anywhere from several weeks to several months before the benefits of the drug begin to be evident. During this period it is vital to follow your doctor's prescriptions carefully and report any adverse effects.
While stimulants offer the benefit of being quick-acting, they do be more susceptible to abuse and dependence. This is the reason why many avoid taking them, especially young children and adolescents. Non-stimulant drugs can be equally effective and are a great option for those who can't endure the negative side effects of stimulants.
Non-stimulant medications include atomoxetine, dextroamphetamine and guanfacine. A number of these medications have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat other ailments however, they are also utilized "off-label" to treat ADHD.
A recent study revealed that the long-term use of ADHD medications is associated with a higher risk of CVD. The risk increased with the quantity of medication used and was more prevalent for boys and girls. The researchers recommend that patients be closely monitored and undergo regular health screenings, specifically for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. This is particularly true in the event of an ancestral history of heart attack or cardiovascular disease.