ADHD Medication - The Difference Between Stimulant and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help improve your child's concentration and control of impulses, as well as his ability to complete tasks. But it's not a cure-all.
Stimulants improve the communication between nerves in the brain, reducing impulsiveness and excessive activity. Medications include short-acting stimulants that must be taken several times throughout the day, and long-acting stimulants that can be used for up to 12 hours per day.
Stimulants
For many people suffering from ADHD, stimulant medications are the first choice for treatment. These drugs boost dopamine levels in the brain, enhancing focus and reduce the impulsive behavior. The drugs are most effective when they are taken regularly. However, they can also cause side effects like insomnia, agitation and a rapid heart rate. They can also be habit-forming. This is why it is essential to work closely with your doctor before starting or stopping medication, and always adhere to their recommendations regarding dosage, frequency and usage.
Short-acting stimulant medications and long-acting stimulant drugs are both available. The short-acting stimulants are peaking in a short time and must be taken two times a day. In contrast, the long-acting drugs such as Ritalin (methylphenidate), Concerta(methylphenidate), Adderall(amphetamine), and Vyvanse(lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) - last up to eight hours. Long-acting medications can decrease the need to take additional doses throughout the day. However, it can be difficult to remember.
You'll need to obtain a prescription for stimulants, and you'll be subject to strict rules when you decide to change doctors or refill your prescription. The good news is that there are nonstimulant options that provide similar advantages without the risk of dependence or abuse. These medications include:
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are more difficult to take effect, and you might not be able to feel the full benefit until you've been using them regularly for three to four weeks. These medications may be the best option for you if you are struggling to get motivated, are prone to side effects, or are unable to take stimulants due an addiction or family history.
Strattera, Kapvay and Qelbree all boost the levels of norepinephrine in your brain. This can help improve concentration and control the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They're usually prescribed "off-label" for ADHD which means they're not endorsed by the FDA for this reason, but have been used for decades to treat other health conditions and have been found to have an effect on ADHD symptoms.
Vyvamind, a natural substitute for prescription ADHD medication that combines cognitive support ingredients, is a fantastic choice. It provides real-world improvements to mental endurance and mental agility. It's designed to fight mental fatigue which can be a challenge for those suffering from ADHD. It also enhances mood and resilience to stressful situations--important aspects in managing ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants
While stimulants are among the most well-known ADHD treatment for adults, they aren't appropriate or safe for everyone. They also have several adverse effects, including a decreased appetite, headaches, and insomnia. Some doctors prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medication for these reasons. These drugs, which can help improve focus and concentration differ from stimulants and don't suffer the same negative side effects.
Medications in this category include atomoxetine (Strattera), bupropion (Wellbutrin) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR). They boost the levels of chemical messengers dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, much as stimulants. They only affect a portion of the brain that is associated with the process of focusing. These antidepressants are prescribed to treat depression, anxiety and ADHD.
The FDA hasn't yet officially approved for this purpose, but some doctors prescribe them as an off-label treatment option for ADHD. They are usually prescribed after other treatments such as diet and exercise have failed. Some experts believe that antidepressants could aid in the treatment of ADHD by improving mood and reducing anxiety and irritability. These can affect how well someone concentrates.
These medications are also less likely to be abused and don't affect weight growth or weight gain. They can also reduce the tics that cause eye blinks and throat clearing, however they can make them more obvious. They might increase heart rate, which can be dangerous for those with heart issues or an history of heart problems.
Certain studies show that combining stimulants with these medications can increase their effectiveness over either alone. Before you try this combination, it's important to speak with your doctor.
Stimulants aren't recommended for children under age 12 years old. They can cause long-term changes in the brains of teens and young kids that could be harmful for their mental health later on in life. They might also reduce appetite and lead to weight loss, and could increase the risk of having seizures in children.
It's not common, but some children with severe ADHD don't respond well to stimulant medication. They might need a different type of treatment for example, atomoxetine or guanfacine XR.
Other medication
Stimulants are among the most popular medication for ADHD and are often the first medicine prescribed by a doctor. These drugs can help a person focus and improve their memory, but they also have side effects like trouble sleeping and stomachaches, headaches, and heart palpitations. Many people suffering from ADHD are seeking stimulants to manage their symptoms. Some of these alternatives include natural supplements, diet modifications and cognitive behavioral therapy.
While some holistic methods may aid in treating ADHD symptoms, they might not work as well for everyone. They are most effective when they are used in conjunction with traditional methods of treatment, such as psychiatric care. A therapist, for example can help patients learn how to manage their symptoms. They can also develop a plan of action.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications, like Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera *discontinued in 2022), guanfacine, and viloxazine are all available to treat children with ADHD. Atomoxetine works to reduce symptoms by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine which is a neurotransmitter that regulates behavior1. Viloxazine and Guanfacine, which are long-acting, are also alpha agonists that were created to treat high blood pressure. These drugs can help to calm anxiety and improve sleep as well as decrease aggression. However, they are not as effective in boosting concentration.
These medications have a slower time to start than stimulants, but they are beneficial for those who don't see the benefit of stimulants. They are also less likely to cause heart problems, which can be a major concern for children with ADHD.
Another possible alternative to stimulants is L tyrosine, which is an amino acid naturally found in nature which can boost the health of the brain by increasing levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. This supplement can be found in health food stores, but it is crucial to discuss the use of it with a doctor prior to taking it. Lastly, melatonin can help with insomnia and sleep issues that are related to ADHD. It's available as an over-the-counter sleep aid and has been shown to be effective for certain people suffering from ADHD. These natural ADHD treatments are worth a try for those who have symptoms but cannot or do not want to take prescription medication.
types of adhd medication
If your stimulant medication isn't working or the adverse effects of your stimulant medication are too severe, your doctor might prescribe a different drug. Non-stimulant medicines are less prone for abuse or addiction but they aren't as effective at reducing ADHD symptoms, particularly in young children.
Atomoxetine, also called Strattera, was the first non-stimulant drug approved to treat ADHD. concerta adhd medication is typically prescribed as a primary treatment. It works by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter inside your brain called norepinephrine, which assists nerves in better transmitting messages between brain cells. It also decreases agitation and sleep problems however it can cause some side effects like decreased appetite, stomachaches, fatigue and problems sleeping. Atomoxetine can trigger suicidal thoughts in rare instances. Intuniv, a long-acting guanfacine is a second option. It increases the level of norepinephrine through blocking a mechanism that eliminates it. It is used to treat ADHD symptoms, but it has also been proven to ease anxiety, so it could be prescribed for children who suffer from both disorders. It can increase heart rate and blood pressure and therefore you should take your child's blood pressure into consideration.
Some parents choose nonstimulant medications to lessen the negative effects of stimulant medication including sleep issues, tics and issues with appetite. Antidepressants are prescribed for ADHD. They are commonly referred to as SNRIs or alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists. They can improve your mood and focus and can help with impulse control. These drugs can be given either by themselves or together with stimulants.
Behavioral therapy can aid you and your child develop coping strategies that can reduce the effects of ADHD symptoms. Certain natural remedies and herbs, such as Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and passionflower, have been proven to be helpful for calming hyperactivity, but it's important to consult with your doctor prior to taking any supplementation.
Complementary and alternative medicine is broad term used to describe therapies that aren't part of the norms of Western medical practice. These treatments include practices that focus on the mind such as meditation, body-based approaches like massage, and natural products like nutritional supplements. Some alternative therapies are being examined to determine their effectiveness in helping manage ADHD, but more research is required before they're suggested as a main treatment option.