ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
For a lot of people stimulant medication is the first option for treating ADHD. However, for some patients, they trigger side effects or don't help.
Some doctors prescribe stimulants in addition to non-stimulant ADHD medication. These include medications that treat high blood-pressure like clonidine and Guanfacine (Tenex). They also include others that help to increase wakefulness.
Benefits
Stimulants are the first medications doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They improve the brain's communication. These medications boost levels of neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers like dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsiveness. They come 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. They are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution, and use.
Doctors can prescribe a combination medication which includes stimulants and nonstimulants. They might do this due to a stimulant not functioning properly, due to side effects that are too extreme or because the patient is suffering from a mental illness that needs to be treated. Adults and children often receive treatment in combination.
Nonstimulant medications include atomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine. They are generally well-tolerated and don't pose the same danger of abuse or addiction that stimulants do. They may take longer to be effective and last less than stimulants however they are effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medication report mild to moderate side effects, including stomach upset, headaches, dry mouth and insomnia. Some people might struggle to stay awake while taking these drugs but this can be less of a problem for children than for adults.
Talk to your doctor consult your doctor if you or your child is thinking about medication for ADHD. They'll explain the various medications available, the benefits and risks of each, and how to get started. They'll also help you choose the right dosage and medication that works best for you.
It could take a few tries to find the perfect dosage and medication. The aim is to manage your ADHD symptoms with the least amount of adverse negative effects. Once you've found the right medication, it is best to stick with it. If you stop taking it, your symptoms will return. Most people with ADHD require these medications for life.
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 decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is the first form that doctors prescribe for ADHD. However, it's not suitable for everyone and may cause side effects that are intolerable.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv(guanfacine), can be used to treat ADHD in adults. They are able to reduce symptoms by directly acting on the prefrontal cortex of the brain and creating a calming effect. They are usually employed in conjunction with stimulant medication or if the stimulant medication isn't working for you.
Both atomoxetine and guanfacine are in the alpha-2 adrenergic agonists class of medications, which means they act by blocking receptors that send dopamine to other cells. This allows for other chemicals to enter the brain such as norepinephrine. It can be calming and improves attention, as well as reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.
The methylphenidate, amphetamine, and various other classes of ADHD medications are effective in decreasing or eliminating symptoms of ADHD. However they are also susceptible to being misused as addictive and lead to an overdose. These drugs are classified as controlled substances, and come with "boxed" warnings that warn patients of the dangers. They are also vulnerable to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants start to work within 30-45 minutes of taking them, and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken as many as three times a day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulants are more difficult to use however they can provide symptom relief for up to 8-16 hours. They can be taken just once a day, and are a good option for those who struggle to remember to take your medication at the same time every day.
Some people experience what's called the rebound effect when the medication wears off, which means that their symptoms return to their prior levels. This can result in short-lasting fatigue, a bad mood and an intense hunger. Modifying the dosage, the time you take it and the kind of medication you are taking can prevent this from happening. If you're experiencing this type of problem, talk to your doctor about making adjustments to your medication.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication boosts the levels of dopamine in brain cells, which improves focus and reduces impulse-driven behavior. They may also improve memory and decrease aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These drugs are typically given in capsule form, but some children may use them as drops or chewable tablets. The stimulants can cause side effects, including dry mouth, reduced appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some instances these side effects are mild and go away when the medication has worn off. In certain instances, these effects can be serious and need medical attention.
Non-stimulant medications can help treat ADHD symptoms by targeting various neurotransmitters in the brain. They also carry less risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. These medications can cause drowsiness or 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 find that they respond better to the extended or long-acting release versions of these medications. This is because these formulations build up gradually in the body, reducing the chance of the drug being worn off too quickly and causing symptoms to return more severe than they were before. They can also make it easier to take the medication on a regular basis, especially when your child or you is having trouble keeping the count of multiple pill bottles.
adhd medication of children and adults who take medications for ADHD will experience at the very least some side effects. These side effects can be controlled by monitoring your or the child's reactions and making adjustments to the dosage and using the medication only according to the prescription. Consult an expert in mental health care in the event that you or your child experiences dangerous or bothersome adverse reactions.
It can take a while to find the best 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 may help manage your symptoms however it's not an effective cure. Your doctor may need to monitor you or your child and alter the dosage until it is effective at controlling your symptoms with minimal side consequences. The medication is typically only one aspect of the treatment program for ADHD in addition to therapy as well as support from family and teachers.
Stimulant medications are the most common ADHD medications, and they help by increasing levels brain chemicals that improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Some of the side effects include weight loss and sleeplessness stomachaches and headaches as well as jitteriness and an increased heart rate.
It may take some time to determine the appropriate medication and dose for your or your child's particular requirements. It can take a few months or weeks for the benefits of a particular drug to be apparent. During this period it is crucial to follow the instructions of your doctor carefully and report any adverse effects.
Although stimulants are quick-acting and have an advantage however, they also come with a greater risk of dependence and abuse. Many people, particularly children and young adults, avoid them because of this. Non-stimulant drugs are equally effective and are better for people who cannot tolerate stimulants' side effects.
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 conditions however, they can also be used "off-label" to treat ADHD.
Recent research has found that long-term ADHD medication use is linked with an increase in CVD risk. The risk of developing CVD increased as the dosage of the medication was increased and was higher for both genders. Researchers recommend that patients be closely monitored, and regularly undergo health screenings. This is especially important for those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is especially important when the person has an early family history of heart attack or cardiovascular disease.