ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medication is the first-choice treatment for ADHD, and for many people, they are effective. Some people have side effects or they don't work.
Doctors may prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medication in lieu of or in combination with stimulants. These include medications that treat high blood pressure like clonidine or Guanfacine (Tenex). These include other medicines that aid in promoting awakening.
Benefits
The first medication doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. They work by increasing the communication between brain nerves. These medications boost the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine which improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs come in different forms, but they all belong to two categories of drugs amphetamines or methylphenidates. Due to their potential for abuse, they are controlled substances. These drugs are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution, and usage.
Doctors may prescribe a mix of nonstimulant and stimulant drugs. They may do this due to a stimulant that doesn't function well enough or because of undesirable side effects or because a patient has an underlying mental health issue that needs to be treated. Children and adults often receive mixed treatments.
Non-stimulant medications include atomoxetine viloxazine, and guanfacine. They are generally well-tolerated and don't carry the same danger of abuse or addiction that stimulants do. Read Home Page may take longer to begin working and they don't last as long as stimulants do, but they're often effective in treating symptoms of ADHD.
Most people who take nonstimulant ADHD medication report mild to moderate side effects, including headaches, stomach upsets dry mouth, and a general feeling of sleepiness. Some people may have difficulty staying awake while taking these drugs. However this is not as much of a problem for children than adults.
Talk to your doctor if you or your child is contemplating treatment for ADHD. They'll discuss the various medications, their benefits and risks and how to get started. They'll also help you choose the right dosage and medication for your needs.
It could take a few attempts to determine the correct dosage and medication. The aim is to manage ADHD symptoms with as few adverse effects as is possible. When you've found the right medication, it's important to stick with it because should you stop taking it, the symptoms will return. Most people with ADHD will require these drugs 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 is the first type that doctors prescribe for ADHD. However, it doesn't work for everyone and can have side effects that are intolerable.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv(guanfacine) can be used to treat ADHD among adults. They can reduce symptoms directly on the prefrontal cortex of the brain and creating a calming effect. They are typically used as an adjunct for stimulant medications or when you don't react well to stimulants.
Both atomoxetine and guanfacine are part of the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists class of drugs that is, they work by blocking receptors that transmit dopamine to other cells. This allows for other chemicals to enter the brain, such as norepinephrine. This chemical can be calming and improves focus, which reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity.
The methylphenidate, amphetamine, and other classes of ADHD drugs are effective in reducing or eliminating ADHD-related symptoms. However they can also be misused, addictive, and lead to overdose. They're classified as controlled substances, and have "boxed warnings" that warn patients of the risks. These drugs are also susceptible to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants begin working within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken up to three times a day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulates take longer to act but can provide relief from symptoms for up to 8-16 hours. These stimulants are usually taken once a day if you are struggling to remember to take your medication each day at the same time.
When the medication wears off, certain patients are affected by a rebound effect. This means that their symptoms return to their previous levels. This can result in short-term fatigue, a negative mood and an intense hunger. This can be avoided by altering the dosage, time it is taken, or the type of medication. If you're experiencing this issue, talk to your doctor about how you can make adjustments to your medication.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication increases dopamine levels in brain cells, which improves focus and reduces impulsive behavior. They may also improve the 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 take them as chewable tablets or drops. The stimulants can cause side effects, including dry mouth, a decrease in appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some instances, side effects aren't too severe and disappear once the medication is gone. In other cases, they can be serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medications can help treat ADHD symptoms by targeting different neurotransmitters in the brain. They also carry an lower risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. Common adverse reactions of these medications include drowsiness, loss appetite and dizziness. To minimize drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat before the medication starts to work and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages.
Many people respond better to long-acting versions or extended release drugs. These formulations are slowly absorbed in the body and reduce the possibility of wearing out too quickly, causing symptoms to worsen. They also make it easier to remember to take your medication, particularly when you or your child is having trouble keeping track multiple pill bottles.
Most kids and adults who are taking medication for ADHD will experience at the very least some adverse effects. These side effects can be managed by observing the reactions of your child or yourself, and adjusting the dosage and taking the medication according to the prescription. Talk to an expert in mental health in the event that you or your child experiences dangerous or bothersome adverse reactions.
Sometimes, it can take time to find the right 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 important to keep in mind that ADHD medication can help manage symptoms, but it is not an effective cure. Your doctor may alter the dosage to help control your symptoms while minimizing the side effects. ADHD treatment plans usually comprise therapy, medication, and support from family members and teachers.
The most popular ADHD medications are stimulant medications. They work by boosting brain chemicals that improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Side effects can include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches and stomachaches as well as jitteriness and an increased heart rate.
It may take a while to determine the best dosage and medication for you or your child's particular needs. Sometimes it can take a few weeks to a few months before the benefits of the medication become apparent. During this time, it's important to follow your doctor's directions and report any side-effects.
While stimulants are beneficial due to being fast-acting, they also be more susceptible to dependence and abuse. This is one reason why many stay clear of them, especially young children and adolescents. Non-stimulant medicines are equally effective and are better for those who cannot tolerate the side effects of stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs include atomoxetine dextroamphetamine and guanfacine. A lot of these medications have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat other conditions however, they are also utilized "off-label" to treat ADHD.
Recent research has found that long-term ADHD medication usage is associated with an increase in CVD risk. The risk was higher as the dose of medication was increased and was more prevalent for both genders. Researchers recommend that patients be monitored closely and have regular health screenings. This is particularly true for people with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is especially important if the individual has a family history of early heart attack or cardiovascular disease.