Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
Stimulants boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels, neurotransmitters that help in enhancing alertness, thinking, effort, and motivation. They can also improve concentration and focus.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are usually prescribed when stimulants aren't working and cause unacceptably adverse negative side effects or when a patient is unable to use them due to medical reasons. Examples include Clonidine (Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Intuniv).
Stimulants
Stimulants, a kind of non-stimulant ADHD medication affect the way nerves within your brain communicate. They boost the levels certain chemical messengers that improve behaviour, impulsiveness and attention. These drugs are used to treat a range of medical conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy as well as obesity. They can also be used to assist people with a history of alcohol or drug abuse. These drugs are abused by many people who don't have medical issues and can have serious side-effects when taken incorrectly.
The most commonly prescribed stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate. It is available as Ritalin or Adderall and is available legally, with an appointment with your doctor or health clinic. It could take anywhere from three to four weeks for these medicines to begin working, and they may last for up to 24 hours. Most patients will have to continue taking their medication even after the symptoms have gone away. They may develop a tolerance and require more to achieve the same effects.
These drugs can cause many adverse effects like stomachaches, headaches, and sleep problems. The medications can also cause a decrease in appetite, as well as an increase in heart rate or bloodpressure. These effects are typically not serious and disappear when the medication is stopped. The stimulants can also trigger dependence when used for non-medical purposes, such as recreational or to improve performance.
ADHD is often treated using stimulants such as guanfacine and atomoxetine. These medications change how the brain's nerves work, but do not increase levels of the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. These medications are suitable for adults and children, and are generally more effective in treating ADHD than stimulants, however they do not have the same immediate effect. These medicines can also be beneficial for those who are allergic or sensitive to stimulant-related side-effects.
Medications such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine) are not approved by the FDA to treat ADHD however, they can be prescribed off-label to manage the condition. These medications work by affecting the release of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. adhd medication ritalin have been proven to enhance mood, concentration, and impulsivity.
Clonidine and Guanfacine are also non-stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD. They are often used in conjunction with stimulant medicines to make them more effective and they can be used by adults and children. These medications do not affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same way as other medications, therefore they are safe for those with a history of depression and anxiety.
There is no one-size-fits-all medication for ADHD Your doctor will need to trial different medications until they find the best one for you or your child. They will need to monitor your or your child's response and be aware of any changes that might suggest a wrong dosage or adverse effects. Your healthcare provider can recommend alternative treatment options, such as behavioral therapy after they have discovered a medication that is effective.
