ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD and for a lot of people they work well. However, for some people, they cause side effects or do not help.
Doctors sometimes prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medications instead, or in combination with stimulants. These medications include those that treat high blood pressure, such as Clonidine and Guanfacine hcl (Tenex). They also include other medications which help in promoting the state of being awake.
Benefits
Stimulants are the first medication doctors usually prescribe to treat ADHD. They improve communication between nerves in the brain. for beginners increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine, which help improve concentration and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. These drugs are available in various forms however they all are classified into two categories amphetamines or methylphenidates. They are controlled substances due to the possibility of the potential for abuse. These drugs are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution, and usage.
Doctors may prescribe a combination medication that includes nonstimulants and stimulants. They may do this because a stimulant doesn't work effectively enough or due to intolerable adverse effects, or because a person is suffering from an underlying mental health issue that requires to be treated. Adults and children often receive mixed treatments.
Viloxazine, guanfacine, and Atomoxetine are all non-stimulant drugs. They are generally tolerated and don't pose the same danger of addiction or abuse as stimulants do. They may take longer to start working and aren't as long-lasting as stimulants, however they are often effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD.
The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medication experience moderate to minor side effects. They can experience headaches, stomach upsets, and sleepiness. Some people may be more difficult to stay awake when taking these medications however this is likely to be less of a problem for children than for adults.
If you're considering medications to help manage your or your child's ADHD, talk to your doctor about it. They'll explain the various medications as well as their advantages and risks and how to start. They'll also help you find the medication and dosage that is most suitable for you.
It could require a few tries to determine the correct dosage and medication. The aim is to manage your ADHD symptoms with the lowest number of side consequences. When you've found the right medication, it's crucial to keep it in place because when you stop using it, your symptoms will be back. The majority of people with 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 decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. It's the first medication doctors often prescribe for ADHD. But, it's not a good fit for everyone and can have adverse effects that are unpalatable.
Non-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine), are FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults. They ease symptoms by directly affecting the prefrontal cortices of the brain, creating a calming affect. They are often 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 belong to the alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists class of drugs. This means that they function by blocking receptors that transmit dopamine from one cell to the next. This permits other chemicals in the brain, like norepinephrine to enter the brain and cause the effect of calming, which enhances attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity.
While the amphetamine and methylphenidate classes of medications are very effective at reducing or eliminating ADHD symptoms but they are also prone to the risk for abuse, addiction, and overdose. These substances are categorized as controlled substances and have "boxed" warnings that alert patients to the dangers. They are also vulnerable to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants begin working within 30 minutes and last for 3 to 4 hours. They can be taken as frequently as three times a day. Long-acting stimulants and intermediate ones take longer to work but they can provide symptoms relief for up to 8-16 hours. These stimulants can be taken daily if you find it difficult to remember to take your medication each day at the same time.
As the medication wears off, certain people are affected by a rebound effect. This means that their symptoms return to their previous levels. This can cause short-lived depression, fatigue and intense hunger. This can be prevented by altering the dosage, when it is taken, or the type of medication. If you're experiencing this problem consult your physician about making adjustments to your medication.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication increases dopamine levels in brain cells, which aids in 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 drugs are typically given orally as capsules, though certain children can take them in drops or chewable tablets. These stimulants could cause side effects, such as dry mouth, a decrease in appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In some instances, these effects are minor and fade when the medication has worn off. In other instances these effects may be serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medications help manage ADHD symptoms by targeting various neurotransmitters within the brain. They also carry less risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. These drugs can cause drowsiness as well as dizziness. Drowsiness can be reduced by taking the medication earlier in the day, eating meals before the medication begins to take effect, and avoiding caffeinated beverages.
A lot of people are more responsive to long-acting versions or extended release drugs. These formulations are slowly absorbed within the body and decrease the possibility of running out too fast and causing symptoms to get worse. They also help you remember to take your medication, especially in the event that you or your child is having difficulty keeping track of the number of pills in a bottle.
Most kids and adults who take medications for ADHD will experience at the very least some adverse effects. These side effects can easily be controlled by monitoring the reactions of your child or yourself, adjusting the dosage and taking the medication according to the prescription. Seek out a mental health professional in the event that you or your child experience dangerous or bothersome adverse effects.
It can take a while to determine the most effective 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 thing to keep in mind about ADHD medication is that it can help manage your symptoms however it's not a cure. Your doctor might need to keep an eye on your child or you and adjust the dosage until it's effective in reducing your symptoms, with no side effects. The medication is typically only one element of the treatment strategy for ADHD as is therapy and support from family members and teachers.
Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD drugs. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals that enhance attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Some of the side effects include a loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches and stomachaches as well as jitteriness and an increased heart rate.
It can be challenging to find the right dose and medication for your child or yourself. Sometimes it takes anywhere from between a few weeks and several months before the benefits of the drug are apparent. In this time it is crucial to follow your physician's instructions carefully and report any adverse effects.
While stimulants offer the benefit of being fast-acting, they also have a higher risk of dependency and abuse. Many people, especially young children and adolescents, avoid them because of this. Non-stimulant medicines can be just as effective and are a better alternative for those who cannot tolerate the side effects of stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs include atomoxetine dextroamphetamine, and guanfacine. These drugs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for various conditions, but are also used to treat ADHD "off-label".
A recent study found 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 was increased and was greater for both genders. Researchers recommend that patients be closely monitored and regularly undergo health screenings. This is especially important for high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is especially important if there is an ancestral history of cardiovascular disease.