ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD, and for many people they work well. Some suffer from side effects or they don't work.
Doctors often prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medications instead, or in combination with stimulants. These include medicines that treat high blood pressure like clonidine or guanfacine (Tenex). These are among the other medications that promote the state of being awake.
Benefits
The first medication doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. They improve communication between nerves in the brain. These medications boost levels of neurotransmitters or chemical messengers, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This can improve concentration and reduce excessive impulsivity and hyperactivity. They are available in a variety of forms, but most fall into two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. They are controlled substances because of the potential for misuse. These drugs are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution and use.
Doctors can prescribe a combination medication which includes stimulants and nonstimulants. They may do this because a stimulant isn't working well enough, or because of insufferable side effects or because a patient is suffering from an underlying mental health condition that needs to be treated. Adults and children often receive treatment in combination.
Nonstimulant medicines include atomoxetine viloxazine and guanfacine. They are generally well-tolerated and don't carry the same danger of abuse or addiction that stimulants do. They may take longer to be effective and last less than stimulants however they can be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
most effective adhd medication for adults who take nonstimulant ADHD medications report moderate to minor side effects. They can experience stomach upset, headaches and sleepiness. Some people may have difficulty staying awake when they take these drugs. However this is less of an issue for children than for adults.
Speak to your doctor consult your doctor if you or your child is contemplating treatment for ADHD. They'll explain the various medications as well as their advantages and risks and how you can begin. They'll also help you select the best medication and dosage for you.
It may require a few times to determine the correct medication and dosage. The aim is to manage your ADHD symptoms with the lowest amount of side consequences. Once you have found the best medication, it's important to stick with it because when you stop using it, your symptoms will come back. The majority of people with ADHD have to take 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 usually prescribe for ADHD. It's not suitable for everyone, and it can have side effects which are intolerable.
Non-stimulant medications that have been approved by FDA, such as Strattera (atomoxetine), and Intuniv(guanfacine), can be used to treat ADHD among adults. They can help reduce symptoms by directly acting on the prefrontal cortex of the brain, and creating an effect of calming. They are typically used as an adjunct to stimulant medication or if you aren't able to respond well to stimulants.
Both atomoxetine and guanfacine are in the alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists class of medications which means that they work by blocking receptors that send dopamine to other cells. This allows other chemicals within the brain, such as norepinephrine to enter the brain and create the effect of calming, which improves attention and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity.
While the amphetamine and methylphenidate classes of medicines are effective in cutting down or eliminating ADHD symptoms, they carry the potential for abuse, addiction, and overdose. They're classified as controlled substances and have "boxed warnings" which warn users of the dangers. These drugs are also prone to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants kick in within 30 to 45 minutes of taking them and last 3-4 hours. They can be taken as frequently as three times per day. Long-acting stimulants and intermediate ones are more difficult to use but they can provide symptoms relief for up to 8-16 hours. They can be taken just once a day, and can be a good choice for those who struggle to remember to take your medication at the same time each day.
When the medication wears off certain people are affected by a rebound effect. This means that their symptoms will return to previous levels. This can result in short-lasting depression, fatigue and an intense hunger. Modifying the dosage, the time you take it, or the kind of medication you take can prevent this from occurring. Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing this problem.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication boosts the levels of dopamine in brain cells, which promotes focus and reduces the impulsive behavior. They may also improve memory and decrease aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These are usually given orally as capsules, though some children may use them as drops or chewable tablets. These stimulants can trigger adverse effects, such as dry mouth, decreased appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some cases, the side effects aren't too severe and fade as the medication wears away. In certain instances, these effects can be serious and need medical attention.
Non-stimulant medications help manage ADHD symptoms by targeting various neurotransmitters within the brain. They also have a lower dependence or dependence risk than stimulants. Common adverse effects of these drugs include drowsiness, loss appetite, and dizziness. Drowsiness can be reduced by taking the medication earlier in the day, eating meals before the medication begins to work and avoiding caffeine-rich beverages.
Many people respond better to extended release drugs. These formulations are slowly absorbed in the body, and reduce the possibility of running out too fast and causing symptoms to get worse. They also help you remember to take your medication, especially when you or your child is having trouble keeping track the number of pills in a bottle.
The majority of children and adults who take medication to treat ADHD will experience adverse effects. These adverse effects can be controlled by keeping track of your child's reactions by making adjustments to the dosage, and taking the medication only as directed. Seek out a mental health professional in the event that you or your child experience dangerous or bothersome side effects.
It may take some time to determine the most effective medication for someone 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 aspect to be aware of with ADHD medication is that it can help manage your symptoms, but it's not an effective cure. Your doctor may need to keep an eye on your child or you and alter the dosage until it is effective at controlling your symptoms with no adverse consequences. ADHD treatment plans typically comprise therapy, medication, as well as support from family and teachers.
The most popular ADHD drugs are stimulant medicines. They work by boosting brain chemicals that improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Some of the side effects include a loss of appetite as well as sleeplessness stomachaches and headaches, jitteriness and increased heart rate.
It can be challenging to determine the proper dosage and medication for you or your child. It may take several weeks or months for the benefits of a particular drug to be apparent. During this time, it's crucial to follow your doctor's directions and report any adverse effects.
While stimulants are fast-acting and offer a benefit but they also come with a greater risk for abuse and dependency. This is the reason why many are hesitant to take them, particularly youngsters and young adults. Non-stimulant drugs are just as effective and are better for people who cannot tolerate the side effects of stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines include atomoxetine dextroamphetamine and guanfacine. These medications are endorsed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for other conditions, but are also used to treat ADHD "off-label".
Recent research has found that long-term ADHD medication usage is associated with an increase in CVD risk. The risk of developing CVD increased as the dosage of the medication increased, and was greater for both genders. Researchers recommend that patients be monitored closely and regularly undergo health screenings. This is especially important for people with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is especially true in the case of an ancestral history of cardiovascular disease.