Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
Stimulants raise dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters which aid in motivation, alertness, concentration, and effort. They can also increase focus and concentration.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are prescribed when stimulants do not perform, cause severe side effects or the person cannot take them due to medical reasons. Examples include Clonidine (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv).
Stimulants
Stimulants are a kind of non-stimulant ADHD medication that works by altering the way neurons in the brain communicate. They boost the levels of chemical messengers which improve behaviour, impulsiveness and attention. These drugs are used to treat a variety of medical conditions like ADHD and obesity, as well as Narcolepsy. They also aid those with an history of drug or alcohol abuse. However, these drugs are frequently misused by those who do not suffer from an illness that requires medical attention and could cause serious adverse effects if taken improperly.
The most frequently prescribed stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate. It is available under Ritalin or Adderall and is available legally, with a prescription from your physician or health clinic. These medications can take as long as four weeks to begin working and could last for as longer as 24 hours. The majority of patients will require continued use of their medication even if the symptoms have subsided. They can develop a tolerance and need more to achieve the same effects.
These medications can cause a variety of adverse reactions, including stomachaches, headaches, and trouble sleeping. The medications can also cause an appetite decrease, as well as an increase in blood pressure or heart rate. These effects are usually not serious and disappear when the medication is stopped. Stimulants may also cause addiction if used for non-medical purposes like recreational or to improve performance.
Certain stimulants, like atomoxetine and guanfacine, are sometimes prescribed for ADHD. These drugs alter the way the brain's nerves work, but do not increase levels of the chemical dopamine and norepinephrine. adhd medication adults uk can be used for both children and adults, and are usually more effective in treating ADHD than stimulants, however they do not have the same immediate impact. These medications are better for people who are sensitive or allergic to stimulant side-effects.
The medications like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine) aren't approved by the FDA for treating ADHD, but they can be prescribed off-label to manage the condition. These drugs affect the way dopamine and norepinephrine is released in the brain. They have been shown to improve the ability to concentrate, mood and the ability to focus.
Other non-stimulant drugs that are sometimes used to treat ADHD include guanfacine and Clonidine. These are often combined with stimulant medications to increase their effectiveness and are able to be used by both children and adults. These medicines don't affect dopamine or norepinephrine in the same manner as other medications, therefore they are safer for those with histories of depression and anxiety.
There is no one-size-fits-all medication for ADHD So your doctor will need to trial different medications until they find the one that is right for you or your child. They'll have to track the response of your child or you and watch for any changes that may be a sign of a bad dose or adverse effects. Once they have found a medication that is effective your doctor will be able to suggest alternative treatment options, including therapy for behavioral disorders.