ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD treatment, since they're the most researched and have the fastest-acting effects. But they're not right for everyone.
These medications increase the signaling between nerves and areas in the brain to reduce symptoms of ADHD. They can also trigger adverse effects such as a loss of appetite and changes in heart rate or blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular treatments for ADHD. They're known for improving concentration, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity and enhancing focus and self-discipline. medication for adhd can increase heart rate and blood pressure which can be dangerous for certain people. Stimulants are used for both medical and non-medical reasons including recreational drugs as weight loss aids, and illegal drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
The two main stimulant medications prescribed for ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. Both are available in a variety of forms, including liquids, pills and patches on the skin. Amphetamines, the oldest and most common of these medications, are now less prescribed. The medicines that contain these ingredients work by altering the way certain neurotransmitters and receptors are used within the brain to reduce symptoms of ADHD.
Most stimulant medications are considered to be first-line treatments although some doctors might choose to prescribe them as second-line treatments or as a treatment combination. Stimulants have the advantage of providing rapid symptom relief and can be felt within a matter of hours after taking them. It could take several weeks for these medications to achieve their full effectiveness.
They come in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. This flexibility allows you to alter the dosage of your medication to suit your requirements. The immediate-release medications begin to work when you take them. This is an ideal option for situations where you want to manage symptoms quickly, such as during a test, or if you're taking part in a sporting event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medications are formulated to release their active ingredients over a prolonged period, usually throughout the day. This allows you to keep the same amount of medication in your system, which can increase your adherence and overall compliance.
These medicines are generally safe when you follow the directions from your physician and avoid other medications or substances that interact with them. These are generally controlled substances because of their potential for abuse. You will require a prescription prior to begin taking these drugs.
The newer atomoxetine, sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree and guanfacine are not stimulants. Both drugs affect the brain chemical norepinephrine through stopping its reabsorption. They're effective for cutting down on hyperactivity and impulsivity but don't improve concentration as well as stimulants do.
Always discuss your options with your doctor. Every medication has its own set of side effects and may affect people differently. It's important to be open and honest about your feelings about the medication with your doctor, so that you can modify the dosage if necessary. Also, talk to your doctor before you start to have babies or become pregnant because certain drugs may be absorbed through breast milk. It is also advisable to consult your doctor if you have any other health issues such as heart issues which could affect how well these medications work.