ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
For many people stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. However, for some people patients, they trigger side negative effects or aren't helpful.
Doctors sometimes prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medications instead, or in addition to stimulants. These medicines include ones that treat high blood pressure, for instance Clonidine and Guanfacine hcl (Tenex). They also include others that help to increase wakefulness.
Benefits
Stimulants are the first medications doctors typically prescribe to treat ADHD. They help improve 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 are available in various forms and are classified into two categories amphetamines or methylphenidates. They are controlled substances because of the possibility of abuse. These medications are strictly regulated in terms of dosage, distribution and use.
Doctors can prescribe a combination medication that includes nonstimulants and stimulants. They might do so because a stimulant doesn't work well enough, or because of insufferable adverse effects or because a patient suffers from a mental health issue that requires to be treated. Children and adults often receive combination treatments.
Nonstimulant medicines include atomoxetine viloxazine and guanfacine. These medications are well tolerated and don't carry the same risk of addiction or abuse as stimulants. They may take longer to work and last longer than stimulants however, they can be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medication report mild to moderate side effects, including headaches, stomach upsets, dry mouth and insomnia. Some people might have a harder time staying awake when taking these medications however this is likely to be less of an issue for children than for adults.
Talk to your doctor if you or your child are thinking about medication for ADHD. They'll discuss the different medications available, the benefits and risks of each, and the best way to get started. They'll also assist you to choose the right dosage and medication for you.
It could require a few times to determine the correct dosage and medication. The goal is to control ADHD symptoms with as few side effects as possible. Once you've found the right medication, you should keep it in place. If you stop taking it your symptoms will recur. Most people suffering from ADHD need to take 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 increases focus and concentration and reduces hyperactivity as well as the tendency to be impulsive. It's the first medication doctors often prescribe for ADHD. It's not for everyone, and it can have adverse effects that are unpalatable.
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 are able to reduce symptoms directly 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 don't respond well to stimulants.
Both atomoxetine (also known as Guanfacine) and guanfacine are part of the class of alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists drugs. This means that they work by blocking receptors that transmit dopamine from one cell to the next. This allows other chemicals to enter the brain such as norepinephrine. It has a calming affect and improves focus, which reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity.
The methylphenidate, amphetamine and various other classes of ADHD drugs are effective in reducing or eliminating ADHD-related symptoms. However they are also susceptible to being misused, addictive, and lead to overdose. These drugs are classified as controlled substances, and they have "boxed" warnings that warn patients of the dangers. These drugs are also prone to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants start to work within 30 to 45 minutes after taking them, and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken up to three times a day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulants take longer to work but they can provide symptoms relief for up to 8-16 hours. These stimulants can be used daily when you find it difficult to remember to take your medication every day at the same time.
As the medication wears off some people suffer from a rebound effect. This means that their symptoms return to their previous levels. This can lead to short-lived fatigue, mood swings and intense hunger. This can be prevented by altering the dosage, when it is taken, or the kind of medication. If you're experiencing this problem, talk to your doctor about making adjustments to your medication.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD drugs increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, promoting focus and reducing impulsive and hyperactive behavior. They may also improve memory and reduce aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These are usually given in capsule form, but some children can take them in drops or chewable tablets. Stimulants can cause side effects like dry mouth, decreased appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In some instances, these effects are minor and go away when the medication has worn off. In other instances, they can be serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medicines help to manage ADHD symptoms by targeting different neurotransmitters within the brain. They also carry an lower risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. These medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness. The risk of drowsiness is reduced by taking the medication earlier in the day, eating meals prior to when the medication begins to work and avoiding beverages with caffeine.
Many people notice that they respond better to the extended or long-acting release versions of these medications. These formulations build up slowly within the body and decrease the possibility of wearing out too quickly, causing symptoms to worsen. They can help you remember to take your medication, particularly in the event that you or your child is having trouble keeping track the number of pills in a bottle.
Most kids and adults who take medications for ADHD will experience at the very least some side effects. These side 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. If you or your child experiences unpleasant or harmful side effects, talk to an expert in mental health about the possibility of changing to a different type of medication.
It can take time to find the best treatment for a person 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 dosage to manage your symptoms while minimizing side effects. Medication is usually only one aspect of the treatment plan for ADHD as is therapy and support from family and teachers.
The most popular ADHD drugs are stimulant medicines. They function by increasing brain chemicals that improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Some of the side effects include weight loss, difficulty sleeping, headaches and stomachaches, jitteriness and increased heart rate.
It can be difficult to determine the proper dosage and medication for your child or yourself. Sometimes, it takes several 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 offer the benefit of being quick-acting, they do be more prone to dependency and abuse. Many people, particularly young children and adolescents, avoid them because of this. Non-stimulant medications can be equally efficient and are a good alternative for those who cannot tolerate the side effects of stimulants.
There are several different types of non-stimulant medicines, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera) and dextroamphetamine (Ritalin), and Guanfacine (Concerta). These drugs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for other conditions, but can also be used to treat ADHD "off-label".
A recent study revealed that the long-term use ADHD medications is linked to a higher risk of CVD. The risk of developing CVD increased as the dosage of the medication increased, and was greater for both genders. you can check here recommend that people be monitored closely and regularly undergo health screenings. This is especially true for those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is particularly true when the person has a family history of early heart attack or cardiovascular disease.