ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?

For a lot of people stimulant medication is the first choice for treating ADHD. However, for some, they cause side effects or do not help.

Some doctors prescribe stimulants in addition to non-stimulant ADHD medications. These include medications that treat high blood pressure, like Clonidine and Guanfacine hcl (Tenex). They also include other medications which help in promoting awakening.

Benefits

Stimulants are the first medication doctors typically prescribe to treat ADHD. They help improve the communication between brain nerves. These drugs increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine, which aid in improving concentration and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. They come in a variety of forms, but most fall into two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Due to their potential for abuse, they are classified as controlled substances. The dosage, distribution, and usage of these medications are strictly controlled.

Doctors may prescribe a mix of nonstimulant and stimulant drugs. This could be due to a stimulant not functioning properly, because of side effects that are too severe, or because the person is suffering from a mental illness which needs to be treated. Children and adults often receive combination treatments.

Non-stimulant medications include atomoxetine viloxazine and guanfacine. These drugs are well-tolerated and don't pose the same risk of abuse or addiction as stimulants. They may 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 medication report that they experience mild to moderate side effects. These include headaches, stomach upsets dry mouth, and a general feeling of sleepiness. Some people might have a harder time staying awake when taking these medications however this is likely to be less of a problem for children than adults.

If you're thinking about taking medications to help manage your or your child's ADHD discuss with your doctor about it. types of adhd medication will explain the different medications with regards to their benefits and potential risks, and how you can get started. They'll also help you choose the medication and dosage that is most suitable for you.

It may require a few times to find the right medication and dosage. The goal is to control your ADHD symptoms with the least amount of side negative effects. Once you have found the best medication, you must stick with it because should you stop taking it, the symptoms will come back. Most people with ADHD will need to take 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 reduces hyperactivity as well as impulse control. It is the first form that doctors prescribe for ADHD. However, it's not suitable for everyone and may cause adverse effects that are unpalatable.

Non-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine) are FDA-approved for treating ADHD in adults. They are able to reduce symptoms directly on the prefrontal cortex of the brain, and creating a calming effect. They are frequently used as an adjunct treatment to stimulant medication or if you don't react well to stimulants.

Both atomoxetine (also called guanfacine) and guanfacine belong the alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists category of drugs. This means that they function by blocking receptors that send dopamine from one cell to another. This allows for other chemicals to enter the brain, such as norepinephrine. This chemical has a calming affect and improves focus, which reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity.

The methylphenidate, amphetamine, and other classes of ADHD medications are effective in decreasing or eliminating symptoms of ADHD. However they can also be misused and addictive, leading to an overdose. These substances are categorized as controlled substances, and they have "boxed" warnings that warn patients of the risks. These drugs are also susceptible to shortages.

Short-acting stimulants begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes of taking them and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken as often as three times per day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulates take longer to act, but they may provide relief from symptoms for between 8 and 16 hours. These stimulants can be used daily if you find it difficult to remember to take your medication every day at the same time.

Some suffer from the rebound effect when the medication wears off, which means that their symptoms return to their earlier levels. This can lead to short-lived fatigue, mood swings and a heightened hunger. Altering the dosage, time you take it and the type of medication you use can prevent this from occurring. Talk to your doctor when you're having this issue.

Side effects

Stimulant ADHD medication boosts dopamine levels in brain cells, which promotes concentration and decreases the impulsive behavior. They may also improve memory and reduce aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These drugs are usually consumed orally in capsules but some children use them as chewable tablets or drops. The stimulants can cause side effects, including dry mouth, reduced appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some cases, the adverse effects are not severe and disappear as soon as the medication wears away. In other cases they could be severe and require medical attention.

Non-stimulant medications help manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters inside the brain. They may also carry a lower risk for addiction or dependence than stimulants. These drugs can cause drowsiness as well as dizziness. To reduce the risk of drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat breakfast before the medication begins to work and stay clear of caffeine-based drinks.


Many people find that they are more responsive to the long-acting or extended release versions of these drugs. These formulations build up slowly in the body, and reduce the possibility of being absorbed too quickly and causing symptoms to get worse. They can also help you remember to take your medication, particularly if either you or your child is having difficulties keeping track of several pill bottles.

Most kids and adults who are taking medications for ADHD will experience at least some adverse effects. These side effects can easily be managed by observing the reactions of your child or yourself, altering the dosage and taking the medication as prescribed. If you or your child is experiencing bothersome or potentially dangerous side effects, talk to an expert in mental health regarding the possibility of switching to a different type of medication.

It can take time to determine the most effective medication for someone with 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's important to remember that ADHD medication can help manage symptoms, but is not an effective cure. Your doctor may need to keep an eye on you or your child and adjust the dosage until it is effective in controlling your symptoms, with no side effects. The medication is typically only one aspect of the treatment plan for ADHD, along with therapy as well as support from family and teachers.

The most common ADHD drugs are stimulant medicines. They function by increasing brain chemicals that improve concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. Some of the side effects include weight loss, difficulty sleeping stomachaches and headaches, jitteriness, and an increase in heart rate.

It may take some time to determine the best medication and dose for your or your child's needs. It can take a few weeks or months for the benefits of a drug to be apparent. During this time it is vital to follow your doctor's prescriptions closely and report any side effects.

While stimulants offer the benefit of being fast-acting, they also have a higher risk of abuse and dependence. Many people, especially children and young adults are hesitant to use them due to this. Non-stimulant medications can be equally efficient and are a good option for those who can't tolerate the side effects of stimulants.

Non-stimulant drugs include atomoxetine dextroamphetamine, and guanfacine. These medications 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 revealed that long-term use of ADHD medications is associated with a higher risk for CVD. The risk was higher as the dose of medication was increased and was higher for boys and girls. Researchers recommend that patients be closely monitored, and undergo regular health screenings. This is especially important for those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is particularly true when the person has an early family history of heart attack or cardiovascular disease.