Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication

The drugs treat ADHD by targeting brain chemical that affects attention and impulse control. The drugs are available in a variety of forms such as tablets that can either be swallowed or chewed along with liquids and patches.

Stimulants, such as methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin and Concerta) stimulate activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention. There are also longer-acting versions of these drugs that release medications continuously throughout the day, helping lessen symptoms.

Non-stimulant drugs

Many people take medication to improve attention and impulse control. These medications can be addictive however they are the most effective. If your doctor believes that stimulants aren't working or cause unpleasant side effects, they may suggest switching to non-stimulant drugs. These drugs require longer to work, but can improve symptoms. These medications can also be more effective when combined with other treatments.


Non-stimulant and stimulant drugs are the two major kinds of ADHD medication. The stimulants that are most commonly used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamines. There are a variety of versions of these drugs, including immediate-release and long-acting versions. Immediate-release stimulants may be taken at any time and are typically administered at the beginning of the day. Long-acting stimulants can be used at least once a day in the morning. They can last anywhere from six to sixteen hours. The majority of people who use these drugs combine long-acting medications with immediate-release medications to manage their symptoms throughout the day.

Alpha agonists and norepinephrine moderators are both non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat ADHD. Moderators of norepinephrine include atomoxetine (Stattera), and guanfacine (Tenex or Intuniv). Clonidine (Catapres Kapvay), and guanfacine Tenex (Intuniv) are alpha agonists used to treat ADHD. Teenagers with issues with substance abuse or addiction issues could be at risk from stimulant medications. Non-stimulant medications is an option for this group because it doesn't have the same addiction potential or side consequences.

Many people discover that their initial ADHD medication doesn't work or has undesirable side effects. It is important to talk to your doctor and experiment with various medications if needed. Your doctor can help you determine the extent to which your current medication is causing an effect by checking for specific side effects, such as heart rate changes or ringing in the ear or changes in blood pressure. It's also a good idea to discuss other supplements and medications you or your child are taking whether they are prescription or over-the counter.

Antidepressants

Stimulant medication is the most common type of treatment for ADHD. They activate the central nervous system, thereby increasing alertness and reducing distractibility. They also aid in improving your concentration, and provide the added benefit of being able aid in feeling more in control of your mood and behavior. They are generally well-tolerated by most people, but there are some adverse effects. Certain people may experience a decrease in appetite or drowsiness, while others may develop an increase in heart rate or sleepiness. People with a history or bipolar disorder or depression are more likely to experience psychosis after taking stimulant medication.

Certain stimulants can make people feel incredibly angry or even aggressive at first, particularly if they are taking them for the first time. If these symptoms persist the patient should consult their physician to alter the dosage or to try an alternative medication. Stimulants can also increase blood pressure, and high doses of the drug may cause seizures in some individuals. The medications can also affect sexual performance, with some experiencing delayed ejaculation and a decreased desire to have sex.

Certain antidepressants, such as serotonin-boosting drugs, may hinder the effectiveness of some ADHD medication. This could result in an impairment in effectiveness, therefore it is essential that people with both conditions discuss their treatment needs with their doctor.

Certain ADHD medications can adversely interact with anxiety or depression in adults and children. It is important to discuss these conditions with your doctor, since you might be able to find a medication that addresses all of your symptoms.

Antidepressants are usually well-tolerated by teens and adolescents however they should be monitored closely for suicidal thoughts. If suicidal feelings are severe or persistent, you should consult a physician immediately. Contact 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.

Some antidepressants may increase feelings of guilt and despair. This is especially true for tricyclics such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl or Pamelor). These medications are often prescribed for ADHD off-label, but can be helpful when other treatments have not worked.

Blood pressure medication

The medications that reduce blood pressure may help in controlling ADHD symptoms, like problems with sleep and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres) Long-acting Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Atomoxetine (Atomoxetine) belong to the group of medications known as alpha-agonists, which are approved to treat high blood pressure but have been employed "off label" for a number of years to treat ADHD. These drugs improve sleep reduce tics, and increase attention. They also can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, so they are safer as opposed to stimulants.

It's not known if these drugs affect the long-term development of brain cells in adolescents and children. Certain experts aren't sure if these medications have a long-term impact on heart issues in teenagers and children. Some people may also be more susceptible to seizures when taking these medications. The American Heart Association recommends people with a past of stroke, heart disease or other cardiovascular problems to have a heart exam prior to taking these medication.

Stimulant ADHD medication is habit-forming and can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can also adversely affect the appetite and sleep. Additionally it's not recommended for infants and young children. It could also have long-lasting negative effects on youngsters' brains that could lead to drug abuse.

The FDA warns adults and teens with ADHD who suffer from anxiety or depression but haven't been treated with stimulant medication, to stay clear of them. These people should consider psychosocial treatment, which involves the use of behavioral therapy to help develop positive ways of coping and improve social interactions.

Most prescription ADHD medicines can cause adverse effects, including headaches, stomach upsets and sleep problems. If the adverse effects are severe, your doctor may lower your dose or switch you to another medicine. If you have a serious side-effect like heart palpitations or hallucinations, consult your physician immediately.

Even if they claim they do, over-the-counter supplements and medications aren't effective in treating ADHD. Many vitamins and minerals aren't backed by scientific research and some may interact with certain medications. Tell your doctor all the supplements and medications you use, including those that are available over the counter.

Other medicines

Most clinical guidelines recommend stimulant medications as the first option for treatment for ADHD. However, they aren't for all, and there's evidence that non-stimulant drugs can be equally effective for some people. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medication, as are Guanfacine ER and Clonidine ER can be prescribed for children aged 6 to 17. These medications boost certain brain chemicals that enhance concentration, impulse control, and working memory.

Many doctors prescribe additional medications to treat ADHD in addition to these medications. These are typically antidepressants or other medications that alter brain chemicals. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that can help patients with ADHD, and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a different stimulant medication often used off-label to treat the condition.

These medications may be available in the form of tablets, capsules, liquid, or patches. It is important to study the labels carefully so that you can be sure you or your child is taking the right dosage. Also, be navigate to this website to tell your doctor about any other drugs or supplements you use, including prescription medicines and herbal remedies. Certain medications may cause undesirable adverse effects and can interact with ADHD medication.

Natural treatments for ADHD can help some people however they don't have the same scientific backing as medications that are approved by the FDA. For example, the herb DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) is sometimes sold as an over-the-counter ADHD treatment, but the FDA warns that it can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to serious health problems. St. John's wort is another herbal supplement that some people recommend for ADHD however, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says there is no evidence to suggest that it can be used as a treatment for ADHD.

Over-the-counter ADHD medication is not a substitute for medical treatment. Speak to your doctor if you or your child is showing symptoms of the disorder. Consult your physician about the best treatment options should you or your child decide that prescription medication is right. The doctor will consider your family's lifestyle and any other medications you or your child is taking in addition to your medical history to find the most effective medicine.