Non Prescription ADHD Medication
Stimulant medication is the first line of treatment for ADHD. Your doctor will closely work with you to determine the appropriate dosage and the type of medication.
Nonstimulant medications are offered to children and adults. These medications treat a variety of conditions but can also help with ADHD symptoms. They include antidepressants like phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and Venlafaxine. how does medication for adhd work can be combined with stimulants to boost the effects.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications like Ritalin and Adderall aid in reducing the symptoms of ADHD in a large number of children and adults. These drugs improve communication between nerves as well as brain regions that control behavior, concentration and impulsivity. They can have negative physical and mental effects if misused or used for a prolonged period of time. Patients with a history of substance abuse, depression or bipolar disorders should avoid taking stimulant medications unless under the supervision and care of a doctor.
Stimulants are drugs which increase the activity of certain brain neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. They also raise blood pressure and heart rate and can lead to heart rhythm issues in certain individuals. Some individuals experience a change in personality, becoming withdrawn and sluggish or less active and more talkative. Others may become more irritable or aggressive, and may develop obsessive compulsive symptoms.
The most commonly prescribed stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidate (MPH; Ritalin and Concerta) and dextroamphetamine-AMP (d-AMP; Adderall). Because they can be crushed or snorted to create a high, they're classified as controlled substances. To avoid over the counter adhd medication and to prevent abuse, the dosage, distribution and usage of these drugs is controlled.
There are a variety of non-stimulant medications that can help control ADHD symptoms. FDA-approved medications are available to treat ADHD. Some of these medications are designed specifically to treat the disorder, and others, like blood pressure medication, can also be used to treat ADHD symptoms.
Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a great antidepressant. It is a successful treatment for children as well as adults with ADHD. It does not affect sleep or appetite, which are two common adverse effects of stimulants. It can also help reduce the severity of anxiety, depression and other mental disorders.
Other antidepressants, including atomoxetine (Prozac) and Citalopram (Celexa) and sertraline (Zoloft) are also effective well to control ADHD symptoms in some adults and children. These antidepressants don't seem to interact with stimulant medications however some researchers believe they might interfere with the drug's positive effects.
Many people with ADHD have other conditions, such as Tourette's Syndrome or anxiety, which could affect the way their medication functions. In these cases it is possible that a different kind of antidepressant might be more suitable for them.
Lifestyle changes can also enhance a child or adult's ability to concentrate, control the impulsivity of their children and manage their emotions. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep can all be beneficial. In some cases doctors may suggest diet supplements to reduce the side effects of ADHD medication or to enhance the current treatment regimen. These supplements should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. The person should also stay clear of foods and drinks that may have negative effects. Foods that contain tyramine, for instance are to be avoided since they can trigger the body's reaction when you are taking methylphenidate and amphetamine. These foods include red meat, poultry fish, dairy, and red meat. In addition, alcoholic beverages and nicotine should be avoided as they can affect attention.