ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD, and for many people, they work effectively. Some suffer from negative side effects or they do not work.
Some doctors prescribe stimulants along with non-stimulant ADHD medication. These medications include those that treat high blood pressure, like Clonidine and Guanfacine hcl (Tenex). They also include others that act to promote wakefulness.
Benefits
The first medication doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. They improve communication between nerves in the brain. These drugs increase levels of neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, dopamine and norepinephrine. This can improve concentration and reduce excessive impulsivity and hyperactivity. They come in many forms, but the majority fall into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. Due to their potential for abuse, they are classified as controlled substances. The dosage, distribution and usage of these medications are tightly regulated.
Doctors may prescribe a combination medication which includes stimulants and nonstimulants. They might do this due to a stimulant not working well enough, due to side effects that are too extreme or because the patient is suffering from a mental illness that needs to be treated. Children and adults often receive treatment in combination.
Non-stimulant medications include atomoxetine guanfacine and viloxazine. These medications are well tolerated and do not carry the same risks of addiction or abuse as stimulants do. They may take longer to get started and they do not last as long as stimulants do, but they are often effective in treating symptoms of ADHD.
The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medication experience moderate to mild side-effects. They can experience headaches, stomach upsets, and sleepiness. adhd uk medication might struggle to stay awake while taking these drugs but this can be less of an issue for children than adults.
If you're thinking about taking the use of medication to treat your child's ADHD Talk to your doctor about it. They'll explain the various medications available, the benefits and risks of each, and the best way to begin. They'll also assist you to determine the right dosage and medication for you.
It could require a few tries to determine the correct dosage and medication. The goal is to control your ADHD symptoms with the least amount of adverse negative effects. When you've found the right medication, you must adhere to it as should you stop taking it, your symptoms will come back. Most people suffering from ADHD require 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 improves concentration, focus and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. It's the first medication that doctors usually prescribe for ADHD. It's not for everyone, and it could cause side effects which are intolerable.
Non-stimulant drugs, like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine) are FDA-approved for treating ADHD in adults. They reduce symptoms through direct stimulation of the prefrontal cortices in the brain, resulting in a calm effect. They are typically used as an adjunct to stimulant medications or if you aren't able to respond well to stimulants.
Both atomoxetine (also called 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 another. This allows for other chemicals to enter the brain such as norepinephrine. It has a calming affect and improves attention, as well as reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.
The methylphenidate, amphetamine and various other classes of ADHD medications are effective in reducing or eliminating ADHD-related symptoms. However they can also be misused and addictive, leading to an overdose. These drugs are classified as controlled substances and come with "boxed" warnings that warn users of the dangers. They are also susceptible to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants kick in within 30 to 45 minutes after taking them and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken as often as three times a day. Long-acting stimulants and intermediate ones are more difficult to use however they can provide symptom relief for 8-16 hours. They can be taken only once a day and can be a good choice if you have trouble remembering to take your medication at the same time each day.
Some people experience what's called the rebound effect when their medication wears off and their symptoms revert to their prior levels. This can result in short-term fatigue, a negative mood and an intense hunger. Changing the dosage, when you take it or what type of medication you use can prevent this from happening. Speak to your doctor when you're experiencing this issue.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD drugs increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, encouraging focus and reducing hyperactive and impulsive behavior. They can also help improve memory and reduce aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These are usually given orally in capsules, however some children can take them as drops or chewable tablets. These stimulants can trigger side effects such as dry mouth, decreased appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some instances these side effects are mild and go away when the medication has worn off. In other cases they could be severe and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medication helps manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters inside the brain. They may also have a lower addiction or dependence risk than stimulants. These medications can cause drowsiness or dizziness. To minimize drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat breakfast before the medication starts to take effect, and avoid caffeinated drinks.
Many people respond better to extended release medications. These formulations build up slowly in the body and reduce the possibility of wearing out too quickly which can cause symptoms to become worse. They also make it easier to remember to take your medication, particularly if either you or your child has difficulties keeping track of several pill bottles.
The majority of children and adults who are taking medications for ADHD will experience at least some side effects. These side effects can be managed by observing the reactions of your child or yourself, adjusting the dosage and following the prescribed dosage. Talk to an expert in mental health if you or your child experience dangerous or bothersome adverse effects.
It may take some time to find the best 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 isn't a cure. Your doctor may alter dosage to manage your symptoms while minimizing any adverse effects. ADHD treatment plans usually include medication, therapy, as well as support from teachers and family members.
The most common ADHD medications are stimulant medications. They work by boosting brain chemicals that improve concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can trigger a range of side effects, including weight loss, difficulty sleeping, stomachaches, headaches, jitteriness, increased heart rate and, occasionally, shaking hands.
It can be challenging to determine the appropriate dose and medication for your child or you. Sometimes, it takes between a few weeks and a few months before the benefits of the drug are evident. In this time, it is very important to follow the instructions of your doctor closely and report any side effects.
While stimulants are fast-acting and can be beneficial but they also come with a greater chance of abuse and dependence. Many people, especially young children and adolescents are hesitant to use them due to this. Non-stimulant drugs can be just as effective and are a better choice for people who cannot take the adverse effects of stimulants.
There are a variety of non-stimulant drugs, including the atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as dextroamphetamine (Ritalin) and Guanfacine (Concerta). Many of these drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat other ailments, but are also used "off-label" to treat ADHD.
A recent study found that the long-term use of ADHD medications is linked to a higher risk of CVD. The risk was increased with the amount of medication taken and was greater for boys and girls. Researchers recommend that people be closely monitored, and regularly undergo health screenings. This is especially important for those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is particularly true if there is an ancestral history of cardiovascular disease.