Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
Stimulants increase norepinephrine and dopamine levels, neurotransmitters that aid in the areas of alertness, thought, effort, and motivation. They can also aid in focus and concentration.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are prescribed when stimulants do not work, cause serious adverse effects or when a person is unable take them due to medical reasons. Clonidine (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv) are two examples.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of non stimulant ADHD medication that works by changing how brain nerves communicate. They boost the amount of chemical messengers that improve impulsiveness, behaviour and attention. These medications are used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including ADHD, narcolepsy and obesity. These medications can also be used to help people who have an history of drinking or using drugs. However, these substances are frequently misused by those who don't have any medical condition. They can cause serious side effects when taken improperly.
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed ADHD stimulant. It is available as Ritalin or Adderall and is available legally, with the help of your health practitioner or doctor. The medications can take up to four weeks to work and may last as long as 24 hours. Most patients need to keep taking the medication even after symptoms disappear, as they may develop a tolerance and need more to get the same effect.
These drugs can trigger various adverse effects, including headaches, stomach aches and difficulty sleeping. They can also cause a decrease in appetite and can raise heart rate or blood pressure. These effects are typically not too severe and will disappear once the medication is stopped. The stimulants can also trigger dependence when used for non-medical purposes for example, recreational use or to boost performance.
ADHD is often treated using stimulants such as guanfacine and atomoxetine. These medications alter how the brain's nerves work but they do not raise levels of the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. These medications are suitable for both children and adults and are generally more effective in treating ADHD than stimulants, even though they don't have the same immediate impact. They can also be more suitable for those who are sensitive to the stimulant-related side effects.
The medications such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine) are not FDA-approved for treating ADHD however, they are available off-label to manage the disorder. These drugs affect the way dopamine and norepinephrine is released in the brain. They have been shown to improve concentration, mood and the ability to focus.
Clonidine and Guanfacine are also non-stimulant medicines that are used to treat ADHD. These drugs are often paired with stimulant drugs to increase their potency. adhd sleep medication can be used by both adults and children. These medicines do no affect dopamine and norepinephrine the same as other medications. They are safe for those with a history anxiety or depression.
Your doctor will try different medications until he or she determines the best one for your child or you. They'll need to keep an eye on your child's or your own reaction and be aware of any changes that may indicate the wrong dosage or any adverse effects. Once they have found an effective medication, your healthcare provider will be able to recommend alternative treatment options, including the use of behavioral therapy.