ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD, and for many people, they are effective. However, for some, they cause side negative effects or aren't helpful.
Some doctors prescribe stimulants in addition to non-stimulant ADHD medication. These include medications that treat high blood pressure like clonidine and Guanfacine (Tenex). These are among the other medications that promote the state of being awake.
Benefits
Stimulants are among the first drugs doctors typically prescribe to treat ADHD. They improve communication between brain nerves. These drugs 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, but they all fall into two drug categories: methylphenidates or amphetamines. Because of their potential for abuse, they are controlled substances. They are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution and use.
medication for adhd may also prescribe a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant medications. for beginners might do this because a stimulant is not effective enough, or due to the fact that side effects are too severe or because the patient has a mental health condition that requires treatment. Adults and children are often treated with mixed treatments.
Nonstimulant medications include atomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine. They are generally tolerated and don't carry the same danger of addiction or abuse as stimulants do. They may take longer to be effective and last less than stimulants however, they are effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medications experience mild to moderate side-effects. These include stomach upset, headaches and sleepiness. Some people may struggle to stay awake while taking these drugs however this is likely to be less of an issue for children than for adults.
If you're thinking of taking medication to manage your or your child's ADHD discuss with your doctor about it. They'll discuss the various medications with regards to their benefits and potential risks and how to get started. They'll also assist you to determine the right dosage and medication for you.
It may require a few attempts to determine the correct dosage and medication. The goal is to control your ADHD symptoms with the least amount of side consequences. Once you've found the best medication, you should keep it in place. If you stop taking it your symptoms will come back. The majority of people suffering from ADHD will require these drugs 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 increases focus and concentration and decreases hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. It is the first type that doctors prescribe for ADHD. It's not for everyone, and it may cause side effects which are intolerable.
Non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved such as Strattera (atomoxetine), and Intuniv(guanfacine), can be used to treat ADHD in adults. They reduce symptoms through direct stimulation of the prefrontal cortices in the brain, creating an euphoric effect. They are frequently employed as an alternative treatment to stimulant medications or if you don't react well to stimulants.
Both atomoxetine (also known as Guanfacine) and guanfacine belong the alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists category of drugs. This means that they work by blocking receptors that send dopamine from one cell to the next. This allows other chemicals within the brain, such as norepinephrine to enter the brain and cause the effect of calming, which enhances attention and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity.
While the amphetamine and methylphenidate classes of drugs are extremely effective in cutting down or eliminating ADHD symptoms but they are also prone to the risk for abuse, addiction and overdose. These drugs are classified as controlled substances and have "boxed" warnings that warn users of the risks. These drugs are also subject to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants start to work within 30 minutes and last for between 3 and 4 hours. They can be taken as many as three times per day. Long-acting and intermediate stimulants are more difficult to use but they can provide symptoms relief for between 8 and 16 hours. They can be used just once a day and can be a good choice if you have trouble remembering to take your medication at the same time each day.
As the medication wears off some people suffer from a rebound effect. This means that their symptoms will return to their previous levels. This can cause short-term fatigue, a negative attitude and intense hunger. Altering the dosage, time you take it and the kind of medication you take can prevent this from occurring. Talk to your doctor when you're experiencing this problem.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD medication boosts dopamine levels in brain cells, which improves focus and reduces impulsive behavior. They may also improve memory and decrease aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These medications are usually consumed orally in capsules, although some children may consume them in chewable tablets or drops. These stimulants can trigger side effects like dry mouth, decreased appetite and difficulty sleeping. In some instances, the side effects aren't too severe and disappear as soon as the medication wears away. In other instances they may be more serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medication can help treat ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters in the brain. They also have an lower risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. Common side effects of these medications include drowsiness, loss appetite and dizziness. Drowsiness can be reduced by taking the medication earlier in the morning, eating meals before the medication begins to work and avoiding beverages with caffeine.
Many people respond better to long-acting versions or extended release drugs. These formulations are slowly absorbed within the body and decrease the chance of being absorbed too quickly which can cause symptoms to become worse. They help you remember to take your medication, particularly when you or your child have difficulty keeping track of several pill bottles.
Most kids and adults who take medication for ADHD will experience at least some side effects. These side effects can easily be controlled by monitoring the reactions of your child or yourself, and adjusting the dosage and taking the medication as prescribed. Talk to an expert in mental health if you or your child experience uncomfortable or harmful side effects.
It may take some 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
The most important thing to keep in mind about ADHD medication is that it can assist you to manage your symptoms, but it's not an effective cure. Your doctor may need to keep an eye on you or your child and alter the dosage until it is effective in reducing your symptoms, with no side effects. ADHD treatment plans usually include medication, therapy, and assistance from family members and teachers.
The most commonly used ADHD medication is stimulant. They work by increasing brain chemicals that improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Some of the side effects include a loss of appetite and sleeplessness or sleeping, stomachaches and headaches as well as jitteriness and an increased heart rate.
It may take some time to determine the best dosage and medication for you or your child's specific requirements. It can take a few months or weeks for the benefits of a medication to be apparent. In this time it is vital to follow the instructions of your doctor carefully and report any adverse effects.
While stimulants can be fast-acting and can be beneficial but they also come with a greater risk of dependence and abuse. This is why many people avoid taking them, especially youngsters and young adults. Non-stimulant medications are just as effective and are better for people who are not able to handle the side effects of stimulants.
Non-stimulant medications include atomoxetine, dextroamphetamine, and guanfacine. These drugs are endorsed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for other conditions, but are also used to treat ADHD "off-label".
A recent study found that long-term use of ADHD medications is associated with a higher risk for CVD. The risk of developing CVD increased as the dosage of medication was increased and was greater for both genders. Researchers recommend that patients be monitored closely and undergo regular health screenings. This is particularly true for people with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is especially important when the person has a family history of early cardiovascular disease or heart attack.