ADHD Medication - The Difference Between Stimulant and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can improve your child's focus and control of impulses, as well as his ability to complete tasks. But it is not a cure-all.
Stimulants help boost communication between brain nerves to decrease hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Short-acting medicines that need to be taken several times per week, and long-acting medications that last for up to 12 hours a day are available.
Stimulants
For many people with ADHD stimulant medication is the first choice for treatment. These drugs increase dopamine levels, which improves concentration and reduces impulsive behavior. They're most effective when taken regularly, but may also cause side effects such as trouble sleeping, agitation or a rapid heart rate. Additionally, they can be addictive. It is essential to collaborate with your physician when you are deciding to stop or start medications and follow their instructions regarding dosage as well as frequency and use.
Stimulant drugs are available in short-acting as well as long-acting versions. The short-acting medicines peak in several hours and are taken 2-3 times a day and the long-acting ones -Ritalin (methylphenidate), Concerta (methylphenidate), Adderall (amphetamine) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate)--last up to eight hours and are taken twice each day. Long-acting drugs can cut down on the need to take additional doses throughout the day. However it can be a challenge to remember.
You'll need to get prescriptions for stimulants, and you'll be subject to strict rules if you want to switch doctors or refill your prescription. There are other options that could offer similar benefits, but without the risk of addiction or abuse. These include:
Non-stimulant ADHD medication takes longer to begin working. You may not experience their full effects until three to four weeks of consistent usage. However, if you're struggling get motivated, are sensitive to adverse effects or are unable to take stimulants because of a family history of heart conditions or addiction, these drugs could be the right choice for you.
The medications Strattera (atomoxetine), Kapvay (clonidine hydrochloride) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are designed to increase the amount of norepinephrine in your brain, which can improve concentration and control of impulsivity and hyperactivity. They're typically prescribed "off-label" for ADHD that is, they're not endorsed by the FDA for this purpose, but they have been used for decades to treat various health conditions and have been proven to be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
If you're looking for an alternative to prescription ADHD medication Vyvamind is a fantastic choice that combines cognitive-support ingredients that deliver real-world improvements in mental agility and endurance. It's designed to help combat mental fatigue that can be a problem for people suffering from ADHD and boost the resilience of people to stress, which are crucial aspects of managing ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants
Although stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication for adults, they're not safe or effective for everyone. Other negative effects include headaches reduced appetite, and sleeplessness. This is why some doctors use non-stimulant ADHD drugs. These drugs work differently than stimulants and don't cause the same adverse effects.
In this category, medications include atomoxetine (Strattera) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR). They boost the levels of chemical messengers like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, just like stimulants. The distinction is that they do this in a certain part of the brain, which is involved in attention. These antidepressants are generally used to treat depression and anxiety, but they can also be prescribed to treat ADHD.
Although the FDA hasn't given them approval for this use However, some doctors have prescribed them off-label as a treatment for ADHD. They're typically tried after other treatments, like exercise and diet aren't helping. Some experts believe antidepressants may aid in treating ADHD by improving mood, decreasing anxiety and anger. This can impact the ability to concentrate.
These medications are also less likely to be misused and do not affect weight gain or growth. They can also help reduce tics, including eye blinking and throat clearing, but may make them more noticeable. They might increase heart rate, which can be dangerous for people who have heart problems or a history of heart trouble.
Research shows that combining stimulants with these medications can make them more efficient than by themselves. Before attempting this combination, you need to consult your doctor.
Children who are younger than 12 years of age are not recommended to consume stimulants. They could cause long-term brain changes in teens and young children, which may be detrimental to their mental health later in life. They can also reduce appetite and cause weight loss, and can raise the risk of having seizures in children.
Although it's not common, some children have severe ADHD that does not respond to stimulant medication. They may need a different treatment, like the atomoxetine XR or the guanfacine.
Other medications
Stimulants, the most commonly used medication prescribed by doctors for ADHD are often the first drugs prescribed. These drugs can help enhance focus and memory but they also have adverse effects like heart palpitations, headaches and stomachaches. Many people suffering from ADHD seek stimulants to manage their symptoms. Some of these alternatives include natural supplements, dietary changes and cognitive behavior therapy.
While some holistic methods can help with ADHD symptoms, they may not be effective for all people. They are most effective when paired with conventional methods of treatment, such as psychiatric therapy. For instance, a therapist can help patients learn how to manage their symptoms and create an action plan to achieve their goals.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications, such as atomoxetine (brand name Strattera *discontinued in 2022), guanfacine, and viloxazine are all available to treat children suffering from ADHD. Atomoxetine reduces symptoms by reducing norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter which controls behavior1. Similar to long-acting guanfacine, long-acting guan viloxazine both are alpha agonists that were initially created to treat high blood pressure. These drugs can be used to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep as well as decrease aggression. However they aren't as effective in boosting concentration.
These medications have a slower start than stimulants, however they may be beneficial to those who can't tolerate or perceive the benefits of stimulants. They are also less likely to cause heart issues, which can be a serious concern for some children suffering from ADHD.
L-tyrosine is another alternative to stimulants. This naturally occurring amino acid can boost brain health by increasing levels of epinephrine as well as dopamine. The supplement is available at health food stores but it's essential to consult a doctor before taking it. Additionally, melatonin can help with insomnia and sleep disorders that are that are associated with ADHD. It is available as an over-the-counter sleep aid and has been shown to be effective in some people suffering from ADHD. These natural ADHD treatments are worth trying for those who have symptoms but prefer not to take prescription medications.
Other treatment options
If you or your child's stimulant medication doesn't work or the adverse effects are too severe the doctor might prescribe a different drug. Non-stimulant medication has less abuse or addiction potential, but may not be as effective in decreasing ADHD symptoms.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) was the first non-stimulant medication to be approved in treating ADHD and is often prescribed as the first-line treatment. It works by boosting the level of a neurotransmitter within the brain called norepinephrine which assists nerves in better transmitting messages between brain cells. It also reduces insomnia and agitation however it can cause certain side effects, such as decreased appetite, stomachaches, fatigue and sleep problems. In adhd medications for adults I Am Psychiatry , atomoxetine may trigger suicidal thoughts. Long-acting guanfacine (Intuniv) is another option, and it increases the amount of norepinephrine that is present in your body, by blocking a mechanism that eliminates it. It is used to treat ADHD symptoms however, it has also been found to help with anxiety. Therefore, it could be prescribed to kids with both disorders. It can increase heart rate and blood pressure However, it's essential to have your child's blood pressure monitored.
The use of stimulants can cause problems with sleep, tics, and appetite, so some parents choose to use nonstimulant medications to minimize the negative effects. Antidepressants are prescribed for ADHD. They are commonly referred to as SNRIs, also known as alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. They alter dopamine and norepinephrine levels in your brain, which can enhance your mood and focus and help with impulse control. These drugs can be given as a single dose or together with stimulants.
Behavioral therapy is considered an essential aspect of treatment for people suffering from ADHD and can assist you or your child learn strategies for coping that can lessen the effects of ADHD symptoms. Some natural products and herbs, such as Ginseng, ginkgo biloba and passionflower, have been shown to be helpful for calming hyperactivity, but it's important to consult your doctor prior to taking any supplementation.
Complementary and alternative medicine is broad term that refers to treatments that are not part of the normal scope of Western medical practice. These treatments include practices that focus on the mind such as meditation, body-based therapies such as massage and natural products like nutritional supplements. Alternative therapies are being examined for their effectiveness in helping manage ADHD However, more research is required before they are considered a primary treatment option.