ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?

adhd and depression medication are the most popular ADHD medication, as they're the most studied and have the fastest-acting effects. But they're not for everyone.

These medications boost the communication between nerves and brain regions to decrease ADHD symptoms. They can also cause side effects like an appetite loss and changes in heart rate or blood pressure.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the most common treatments for ADHD. They are known for increasing the duration of attention span, reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and improving concentration and discipline. They are also known for raising blood pressure and heart rate and can cause harm in some people. The history of stimulants is long of use, both for medical and non-medical purposes such as recreational drugs, performance enhancers as well as weight loss aids and illicit substances like cocaine, methamphetamine (meth) or other synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") and MDMA/ecstasy.

Amphétamines and methylphenidates are two most popular stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They are both available in various forms, including liquids, pills and skin patches. Amphetamines, the oldest and most commonly used of these medications are becoming less prescribed. adhd and depression medication work by altering the way that neurotransmitters receptors, as well as other brain chemicals are utilized to decrease ADHD symptoms.

Most stimulant medications fall under the category of first-line treatment, although some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line therapy or when combined with other treatments. The benefits of stimulants are providing rapid symptom relief that can be felt within a few hours of taking them. It can take up to several weeks for these medications' full effectiveness.

These drugs are available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. This flexibility allows for you to adjust the dosage of your medication to suit your needs. The immediate-release medications begin to work immediately after you swallow them. This is an ideal option for situations where you want to treat symptoms quickly, for instance during a test or if you're taking part in a sporting event or at work.


Extended-release stimulant medicines are designed to release their active ingredients over a longer duration, typically throughout the day. This allows you to maintain a constant level of medication in your system, which can increase your adherence and overall compliance.

These medications are generally safe provided you follow the prescriptions from your doctor and stay clear of other drugs or substances that interact with them. They're primarily controlled substances due to their potential for abuse, therefore you'll need a prescription from your doctor before you begin taking these medications.

The medications that aren't classified as stimulants include the newer atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both drugs target the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine, stopping its absorption. They're effective for decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, but don't improve concentration as as stimulants do.

Always discuss your options with a doctor. Each medication can have its own set of side effects that can affect individuals differently. It's important to be open and open about your feelings about the medication to your doctor so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Talk to your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or breastfeed, as some of these drugs can pass through breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you have other health issues, such as heart problems that could impact the effectiveness of these drugs.