ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
For many people stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. Some suffer from adverse reactions or they don't perform as well.
Doctors sometimes prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medication instead, or in addition to stimulants. These medications include those that treat high blood pressure, like the clonidine drug and guanfacine HCL (Tenex). They also include other medications which help in promoting awakening.
Benefits
The first medication doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. They improve communication between brain nerves. These medications increase levels of neurotransmitters or chemical messengers like dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves concentration and decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They are available in a variety of forms, but the majority fall into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. They are controlled substances because of the potential for misuse. The dosage, distribution and usage of these drugs are tightly regulated.
Doctors can prescribe a mix of stimulant and nonstimulant medications. This could be because a stimulant isn't functioning properly, due to the fact that side effects are too severe or because the patient suffers from a mental health issue which needs to be treated. Children and adults often receive combination treatments.
Viloxazine, Guanfacine, and Atomoxetine are medications that are not stimulants. These medications are well tolerated and don't carry the same dangers of addiction or abuse as stimulants do. They may take longer to start working and don't last as long as stimulants, however they're often effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD.
Most people who take nonstimulant ADHD medication report mild to moderate side effects, including headaches, stomach upsets, dry mouth and sleepiness. Some people may struggle to stay awake when taking these medications but this can be less of an issue for children than for adults.
If you're thinking about taking medications to help manage your or your child's ADHD Talk to your doctor about it. They'll explain the various medications available, the benefits and risks of each, and the best way to start. They'll also help you find a medication and dose that is most suitable for you.
It could take a few attempts to find the right dosage and medication. The goal is to control ADHD symptoms with as little side effects as possible. Once you find the right medication, you must keep it in place because if you stop using it, your symptoms will come back. Most people with 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 and concentration, and reduces hyperactivity and impulse control. It is the first form that doctors prescribe for ADHD. But, it's not a good fit for everyone, and it can cause side effects that are intolerable.
Non-stimulant medications that have been approved by FDA, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv(guanfacine), can be used to treat ADHD in adults. They can reduce symptoms by directly acting on the prefrontal cortex of the brain, and creating an calming effect. They are frequently employed as an alternative treatment to stimulant medication or if you aren't able to respond well to stimulants.
Both atomoxetine and guanfacine are in the alpha-2 adrenergic agonists class of medications that is, they work by blocking receptors that send dopamine to other cells. This allows other chemicals in the brain, like norepinephrine to enter the brain and cause a calming effect, which improves attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity.
The methylphenidate and amphetamine and various other classes of ADHD medications are effective in alleviating or eliminating symptoms associated with ADHD. However they are also susceptible to being misused as addictive and lead to overdose. These substances are categorized as controlled substances, and come with "boxed" warnings that warn patients of the risks. They are also susceptible to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants begin working within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken at least three times a day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulants take longer to work however they can provide symptom relief for up to 8-16 hours. These stimulants can be taken once a day in the event that you find it difficult to remember to take your medication every day at the same time.
Some suffer from the rebound effect when their medication wears off, meaning their symptoms return to their previous levels. This can cause short-term fatigue, a negative attitude, and a heightened hunger. This can be prevented by changing the dose, when it is taken, or the kind of medication. Talk to your doctor when you're having this issue.
my response boost dopamine levels in the brain, which can help improve focus and reducing hyperactive and impulsive behavior. They can also improve memory and reduce aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These are typically taken orally in capsule form however some children consume them in chewable tablets or drops. These stimulants could cause adverse reactions, such as dry mouth, a decrease in appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In some instances, 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 medication helps manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters in the brain. They may also have a lower addiction or dependency risk than stimulants. Common adverse reactions of these medications include drowsiness and loss of appetite, and dizziness. To minimize drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat breakfast before the medication starts to take effect and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages.
Many people respond better to long-acting versions or extended release drugs. This is due to the fact that these formulations will build up slowly in the body, reducing the chance of the drug wearing off too quickly, the symptoms returning more severe than they were before. They also make it easier to remember to take your medication, particularly in the event that you or your child is having difficulty keeping track of the number of pills in a bottle.
Most children and adults who are taking medication to treat ADHD will experience some side effects. These side effects can be managed by keeping track of your child's reactions by making adjustments to the dosage and taking the medication according to the prescription. If you or your child suffers adverse or potentially dangerous adverse effects, consult an expert in mental health regarding the possibility of switching to a different type of medication.
Sometimes, it takes time to determine the appropriate medication for a child 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
It is crucial to remember that ADHD medication can be used to manage symptoms, but is not a cure. Your doctor can alter dosage to manage your symptoms while minimizing side effects. ADHD treatment plans usually comprise therapy, medication, as well as support from family members and teachers.
Stimulant drugs are the most common ADHD drugs. They are effective in increasing levels of brain chemicals that improve focus and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. The side effects include loss of appetite as well as sleeplessness, headaches and stomachaches, jitteriness and increased heart rate.
It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication and dose for your or your child's specific needs. It could take a few months or weeks for the benefits of a drug to be evident. During this time, it's crucial to follow your doctor's directions and report any side-effects.
While stimulants are beneficial due to being fast-acting, they also be more prone to dependence and abuse. This is the reason why many are hesitant to take them, particularly young children and adolescents. Non-stimulant medications can be equally effective and are a better alternative for those who cannot take the adverse 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 employed "off-label" to treat ADHD.
A recent study has found that the long-term use of ADHD medications is linked to a higher risk for CVD. The risk increased with amount of medication taken and was higher in both genders. Researchers recommend that people be monitored closely and undergo regular health screenings. This is particularly true for those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is especially important if the individual has an early family history of heart attack or cardiovascular disease.