ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD, and for many people they work well. Some people have adverse reactions or they don't perform as well.
Doctors often prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medication instead, or in combination with stimulants. These include medicines that treat high blood pressure like clonidine or Guanfacine (Tenex). They also include other medications that help to increase the state of being awake.
Benefits
Stimulants are among the first drugs doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They help improve the brain's communication. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are available in a variety of forms however they all fall into two drug categories amphetamines or methylphenidates. Due to their potential for abuse, they are classified as controlled substances. These drugs are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution, and usage.
Doctors may prescribe a mix of stimulant and nonstimulant medications. They may do this due to a stimulant not effective enough, or due to the fact that side effects are too extreme, or because the person is suffering from a mental illness that needs to be treated. Combination treatments are commonplace for children and adults.
Nonstimulant medicines include atomoxetine viloxazine, and guanfacine. They are generally well-tolerated and don't carry the same risk for abuse or addiction as stimulants do. They might take longer to work and last longer than stimulants however they are effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medications experience moderate to mild side-effects. They can experience headaches, stomach upsets, and insomnia. Some people might struggle to stay awake while taking these medications, but this tends to be less of an issue for children than adults.
If you're considering medications to help manage your or your child's ADHD Talk to your doctor about it. They'll discuss the different medications available as well as the advantages and dangers of each, as well as how to start. They'll also help you choose a medication and dose that works best for you.
It could require a few times to find the right medication and dosage. The aim is to manage your ADHD symptoms with the lowest amount of adverse effects. Once you've found the best medication, you must stick with it. If you stop taking it, your symptoms will recur. Most people suffering from ADHD have to take these medications throughout 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 increases focus and concentration and reduces hyperactivity as well as impulse control. It is the first form that doctors prescribe for ADHD. But, it's not a good fit for everyone and may cause side effects that are intolerable.
Non-stimulant medications, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine) are FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults. They ease symptoms by acting directly on the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which creates a calm effect. They are often utilized in conjunction with stimulant medications or if the stimulant medication isn't working for you.
Both atomoxetine (also known as Guanfacine) and guanfacine belong the class of alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists drugs. This means that they function by blocking receptors that send dopamine from one cell to another. This allows other chemicals to enter the brain such as norepinephrine, which can be calming and improves focus, which reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity.
The methylphenidate, amphetamine and various other classes of ADHD drugs are effective in reducing or eliminating ADHD-related symptoms. However they can also be misused and addictive, leading to overdose. They're classified as controlled substances and have "boxed warnings" which warn users of the risks. They are also susceptible to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants begin working within 30 minutes and last for between 3 and 4 hours. They can be taken up to 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. These stimulants can be taken daily when you find it difficult to remember to take your medication each day at the same time.
Some suffer from the rebound effect, as their medication wears off, and their symptoms revert to their earlier levels. This can cause short-term fatigue, a bad mood and an intense hunger. This can be avoided by adjusting the dosage, time it is taken, or the kind of medication. Talk to your doctor in case you're experiencing this issue.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication boosts dopamine levels in brain cells, which improves concentration and decreases impulsive behavior. They can also improve memory and reduce aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These medications are usually taken orally as capsules, though some children may take them in drops or chewable tablets. These stimulants can trigger adverse effects, such as dry mouth, reduced appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In some cases, these effects are minor and go away when the medication has worn off. In other cases they may be more serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medication can help treat ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters in the brain. They may also have a lower dependence or dependence risk than stimulants. Common side effects of these medications include drowsiness and loss of appetite and dizziness. Drowsiness can be minimized by taking the medication earlier in the morning, eating meals before the medication begins to work, and avoiding caffeinated beverages.
Many people notice that they are more responsive to the extended release versions of these medications. These formulations accumulate slowly in the body, and reduce the possibility of wearing out too quickly, causing symptoms to worsen. They can also help you remember to take your medication, particularly if either you or your child have trouble keeping track multiple pill bottles.
Most children and adults who take medication to treat ADHD will experience some adverse effects. These side effects can easily be managed by monitoring the reactions of your child or yourself, adjusting the dosage and taking the medication as prescribed. If you or your child is experiencing adverse or harmful side effects, consult with an expert in mental health about the possibility of switching to another type of medication.
It can take time to find the right 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
It is crucial to remember that ADHD medication can help manage symptoms, but it is not a cure. Your doctor may need to keep an eye on you or your child and adjust the dosage until it is effective in reducing your symptoms with minimal side effects. ADHD treatment plans usually comprise therapy, medication, and support from family members and teachers.
Stimulant medicines are the most common ADHD drugs. They help by increasing levels brain chemicals that increase concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Side effects can include loss of appetite as well as sleeplessness stomachaches and headaches, jitteriness, and an increase in heart rate.
It may take some time to find the right dosage and medication for you or your child's particular requirements. It can take a few months or weeks for the benefits of a particular drug to be evident. During this time, it's important to follow your doctor's directions and report any adverse effects.
While stimulants have the advantage of being fast-acting, they also be more susceptible to dependence and abuse. Many people, particularly young children and adolescents, avoid them because of this. Non-stimulant medications are equally effective and are better for people who cannot tolerate the side effects of stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines include atomoxetine dextroamphetamine and guanfacine. These drugs are endorsed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for other conditions but can also be used to treat ADHD "off-label".
Recent research has revealed that long-term ADHD medication usage is associated with an increase in CVD risk. add adhd medications was increased with the amount of medication taken and was higher for boys and girls. The researchers recommend that individuals be monitored closely and undergo regular health screenings, specifically for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. This is especially true when there is an ancestral history of cardiovascular disease.