ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD, and for many people, they work effectively. However, for some people patients, they trigger side effects or don't help.
Some doctors prescribe stimulants in addition to non-stimulant ADHD medications. These include medications to treat high blood pressure, such as clonidine or Guanfacine (Tenex). They also include other medications that help to increase wakefulness.
Benefits
Stimulants are the first medication doctors typically prescribe to treat ADHD. They help improve communication between brain nerves. These drugs increase levels of neurotransmitters, also known as chemical messengers like dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsiveness. They come in many forms, but most fall into two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. They are controlled substances due to the possibility of their potential misuse. These drugs are strictly controlled in terms of dosage, distribution and use.
Doctors may prescribe a mix medication which includes stimulants and nonstimulants. They might do so because a stimulant isn't working well enough or because of undesirable adverse effects or because a patient suffers from a mental health issue that needs to be treated. Children and adults often receive combination treatments.
Nonstimulant medications include atomoxetine, viloxazine, and guanfacine. These medications are generally well-tolerated and don't pose the same danger of addiction or abuse as stimulants do. They may take longer to start working and do not last as long as stimulants do, however they're usually effective in treating symptoms of ADHD.
Most people who take nonstimulant ADHD medication experience moderate to minor side effects. They can experience stomach upset, headaches and insomnia. Some people may have a harder time staying awake while taking these medications however this is likely to be less of an issue 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 what medication is available as well as the advantages and dangers of each, and the best way to begin. They will also help you determine the right dosage and medication for your needs.
It may take a few tries to find the perfect dosage and medication. The goal is to control ADHD symptoms with as few side effects as possible. Once you've found a suitable medication, you must stick with it. If you stop taking it your symptoms will come back. Most people with ADHD will require 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 focus and concentration and reduces hyperactivity as well as impulse control. It is the first form that doctors prescribe for ADHD. However, it doesn't work for everyone, and it can cause adverse effects that are unpalatable.
FDA-approved non-stimulant medications, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv(guanfacine) are used to treat ADHD among adults. They ease symptoms through direct stimulation of the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which creates a calming affect. They are often used as an adjunct for stimulant medications or when you don't react 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 which transmit dopamine from one cell to another. This allows other chemicals in the brain, for instance norepinephrine, to reach the brain and produce an calming effect that increases attention and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity.
The methylphenidate, amphetamine, and other classes of ADHD drugs are effective in decreasing or eliminating symptoms of ADHD. However they can also be misused, addictive, and lead to overdose. These drugs are classified as controlled substances, and have "boxed" warnings that warn users of the risks. They are also susceptible to shortages.
Short-acting stimulants begin working within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken up to three times per day. Long-acting and intermediate stimulants are more difficult to activate, but they can provide relief from symptoms for up to 8-16 hours. They can be taken only once per day and can be a good choice for those who struggle to remember to take your medication at the same time every day.
There are some who experience the rebound effect as their medication wears off, and their symptoms revert to their previous levels. This can result in short-term fatigue, a bad attitude and intense hunger. Modifying the dosage, the time you take it and the kind of medication you take can prevent this from occurring. If you're experiencing this problem consult your physician about making adjustments to your medication.
Side effects
Stimulant ADHD drugs increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, promoting focus and reducing hyperactive and 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 in capsule form, but some children can take them in drops or chewable tablets. These stimulants could cause side effects, including dry mouth, reduced appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some cases, the adverse effects are not severe and fade as the medication is gone. In other cases, they can be serious and require medical attention.
Non-stimulant medication helps manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters inside the brain. They also have a lower dependence or dependence risk than stimulants. Common adverse reactions of these medications include drowsiness, loss appetite and dizziness. Drowsiness can be reduced by taking the medication earlier in the day, eating meals prior to when the medication begins to take effect and avoiding caffeine-rich beverages.
Many people discover that they are more responsive to the extended or long-acting release versions of these drugs. These formulations are slowly absorbed in the body, and reduce the chance of being absorbed too quickly and causing symptoms to get worse. They can help you remember to take your medication, especially when you or your child has difficulty keeping track of the number of pills in a bottle.
The majority of children and adults who take medication for ADHD will experience at the very least 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 according to the prescription. If you or your child suffers unpleasant or dangerous side effects, consult with an expert in mental health regarding the possibility of changing to another type of medication.
Sometimes, it can take time to determine the appropriate medication for a child with ADHD. In adhd medications , 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 isn't a cure. Your doctor can alter the dosage to control your symptoms while minimizing any adverse effects. ADHD treatment plans typically comprise therapy, medication, and support from family and teachers.
Stimulant medicines are the most commonly used ADHD drugs. They are effective in increasing levels of brain chemicals that increase concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can cause a variety of adverse reactions, including loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, stomachaches, headaches, anxiety, a higher heart rate, and occasionally shaky hands.
It can be difficult to determine the proper dosage and medication for your child or yourself. Sometimes it takes anywhere from between a few weeks and several months before the benefits of the medication become apparent. During this time, it is very important to follow your doctor's prescriptions closely and report any side effects.
Although stimulants are quick-acting and have an advantage, they also come with a greater risk for abuse and dependency. This is why many people avoid taking them, especially youngsters and young adults. Non-stimulant medications can be just as effective and are a better option for those who can't take the adverse effects of stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs 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. The risk was increased with the quantity of medication used and was more prevalent in girls and boys. Researchers recommend that people be closely monitored and have regular health screenings. This is particularly true for people with high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is especially important when there is a family history of cardiovascular disease.