ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
For many people, stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. Some people have negative side effects or they do not work for everyone.
Doctors often 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 are in addition to other medicines that promote the state of being awake.
Benefits
The first prescription medication doctors recommend to treat ADHD is stimulants. They work by boosting communication between nerves within the brain. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine which help improve concentration and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. They are available in a variety of forms, but most fall into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. They are controlled substances because of the potential for abuse. These drugs are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution and use.
Doctors can also prescribe a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant medications. They might do so because a stimulant doesn't work well enough, or because of undesirable side effects or because a patient suffers from a mental health issue that needs to be treated. Children and adults often receive combination treatments.
Non-stimulant medications include atomoxetine guanfacine and viloxazine. They are generally well-tolerated and don't carry the same danger of addiction or abuse that stimulants do. They can take longer to begin working and don't last as long as stimulants do, but they're often effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD.
Most people who take nonstimulant ADHD medication experience moderate to minor side effects. They can experience headaches, stomach upsets, and insomnia. Some people might have a harder time staying awake while taking these medications, but this tends to be less of a problem for children than adults.
If you're considering medication to manage your or your child's ADHD discuss with your doctor about it. They'll explain the various medications as well as their advantages and risks, and how you can start. They will also help you select the best dosage and medication for you.
It may take a few times to find the perfect medication and dose. The goal is to control your ADHD symptoms with the lowest number of side effects. Once you've found a suitable medication, you should stick with it. If you stop taking it, your symptoms will come back. Most people suffering from ADHD need 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 concentration, focus and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. It's the primary type of medication that doctors typically prescribe for ADHD. It's not for everyone, and it could cause side effects which are intolerable.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv(guanfacine) are used to treat ADHD among adults. They reduce symptoms by directly affecting the prefrontal cortices in the brain, creating a calm effect. They are usually employed in conjunction with stimulant medications or if the stimulant medication fails to work for you.
Both atomoxetine and Guanfacine belong in the alpha-2 adrenergic agonists class of medications which means that they work by blocking receptors which transmit dopamine to other cells. This allows other chemicals within the brain, such as norepinephrine, to enter the brain and produce a calming effect, which improves attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity.
While Visit Homepage and methylphenidate classes of drugs are extremely effective at cutting down or eliminating ADHD symptoms however, they also carry the risk for abuse, addiction and overdose. They're classified as controlled substances, and have "boxed warnings" that warn patients of these risks. They are also vulnerable to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants kick in within 30 to 45 minutes of taking them and last 3-4 hours. They can be taken up to three times a day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulates take longer to act, but they can relieve symptoms for 8-16 hours. just click the next web page can be taken only once a day and are a great option for those who struggle to remember to take your medication at the same time each day.
Some suffer from the rebound effect when the medication wears off, and their symptoms revert to their prior levels. This can result in short-term fatigue, a bad attitude, and a heightened hunger. Modifying the dosage, the time you take it and the kind of medication you are taking can stop 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 medications increase dopamine levels in the brain, encouraging focus and reducing impulsive and hyperactive behavior. They may also improve memory and decrease aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These drugs are usually taken orally in capsule form, although some children may use them as chewable tablets or drops. Stimulants can cause side effects such as dry mouth, a decrease in appetite and difficulty sleeping. In some instances these side effects are mild and disappear as the medication wears off. In other instances, these effects can be serious and need medical attention.
Non-stimulant medication helps manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters within the brain. They may also have a lower dependence or dependence risk than stimulants. Common adverse effects of these drugs include drowsiness, loss appetite, and dizziness. To minimize drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat breakfast before the medication starts to work and stay clear of caffeine-based drinks.
Many people notice that they respond better to the extended release versions of these drugs. These formulations build up slowly in the body, and reduce the possibility of wearing out too quickly and causing symptoms to get worse. They can help you remember to take your medication, especially in the event that you or your child has difficulty keeping track of several pill bottles.
Most adults and children who take medication to treat ADHD will experience adverse reactions. These side effects can be managed by observing the reactions of your child or yourself, adjusting the dosage and taking the medication as prescribed. Seek out a mental health professional in the event that you or your child suffer unpleasant or dangerous adverse reactions.
It may take some time to find the best 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 thing to remember about ADHD medication is that it can help manage your symptoms however it's not an effective cure. Your doctor may alter the dosage to control your symptoms while minimizing any adverse effects. ADHD treatment plans typically include medication, therapy, and support from family and teachers.
Stimulant medicines are the most popular ADHD drugs. They are effective in increasing levels of brain chemicals that increase concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. The side effects include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches and stomachaches, jitteriness and increased heart rate.
It can be a challenge to determine the proper dosage and medication for your child or yourself. It can take a few months or weeks for the benefits of a drug to become apparent. In this time it is vital to follow your doctor's prescriptions carefully and report any side effects.
While stimulants offer the benefit of being quick-acting, they do be more susceptible to abuse and dependence. Many people, especially young children and adolescents are reluctant to take them due to this. Non-stimulant medications can be just as 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 conditions, but are also employed "off-label" to treat ADHD.
Recent research has shown 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 more prevalent for girls and boys. The researchers recommend that individuals be monitored closely and undergo regular health screenings, especially for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. This is especially important when there is an ancestral history of cardiovascular disease.