ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD treatment, because they're the most researched and have the fastest-acting effects. However, they aren't for everyone.
These drugs increase the communication between nerves and the regions of the brain to lessen symptoms of ADHD. They can also have negative side effects, such as an appetite loss and changes in blood pressure or heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD. They're known for improving concentration as well as reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and increasing self-control and focus. They also can increase blood pressure and heart rate which can be dangerous for certain people. Stimulants are used for both medical and non-medical purposes such as recreational drugs as well as weight loss aids. They also include illegal drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
The two most commonly used stimulant drugs prescribed for ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. They're both available in different forms, such as pills, liquids skin patches, chewable tablets. Amphetamines, the oldest and most commonly used of these medications are becoming less prescribed. The medications that contain these ingredients function by altering the way certain neurotransmitters and receptors are used within the brain to reduce symptoms of ADHD.
Most stimulant medications fall under the first-line treatment category, although some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line treatment in conjunction with other treatments. Stimulants have the advantage of offering quick relief from symptoms that can be felt within a few hours of taking them. It can take up to several weeks for these drugs to reach to reach their full effectiveness.
They are available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. This flexibility lets you adjust the dosage of your medication according to your requirements. The immediate-release medications begin to work as soon as you swallow them. This is an ideal option for situations where you want to manage 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 active ingredients over a longer time period, typically throughout the day. medications for adhd helps maintain a steady level of the medication within your body, which could increase compliance and overall adhesion to your treatment plan.
These medications are generally safe provided you follow the prescriptions from your doctor and avoid other drugs or substances that interact with them. They are primarily controlled substances because of their potential for abuse, therefore you'll need a prescription from your physician before starting the treatment.
The newer atomoxetine that is sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree, as well as guanfacine, are not stimulants. Both of these drugs are effective in preventing the reabsorption process of norepinephrine a chemical in the brain. They are effective in decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, but they don't help improve concentration as as stimulants do.
Keep in mind that not everyone will react to non-stimulant medication for adhd, so always discuss your options with your physician. Each medication has its own set of side effects that may affect people differently. It is essential to be honest with your doctor about how you feel about the medication so that you can adjust your dosage if necessary. Also, talk with your doctor prior to when you begin to become pregnant or begin breastfeeding, since certain medications can be absorbed by breast milk. You should also talk to your doctor if you have any other health constraints such as heart issues, which can impact the effectiveness of these drugs.