ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first choice of ADHD medications, they have the most research-based evidence behind them, and they are quick-acting. However, they're not for everyone.
These medications boost the communication between brain regions and nerves to reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications can also trigger adverse effects such as a change in heart rate or blood pressure, as well as the loss of appetite.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common treatments for ADHD. They are known for increasing the amount of time spent in school, decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity and also improving focus and discipline. They can also increase the heart rate and blood pressure which can be dangerous for certain people. The use of stimulants is for medical and non-medical reasons, including recreational drugs as weight loss aids, and illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
The two most popular stimulant medications prescribed for ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. They're both available in different forms, such as pills, liquids skin patches, chewable tablets. Amphetamines are the earliest and most well-known medications, with methylphenidates becoming more commonly prescribed as time passes. The medications that contain these ingredients function by altering the way certain neurotransmitters and receptors are used within the brain, thereby reducing symptoms of ADHD.
Most stimulant medications are considered to be first-line treatments although some doctors might choose to prescribe them second-line or as a treatment combination. The benefits of stimulants are offering quick relief from symptoms, which can be felt within a matter of hours after taking them. However, it may require several weeks of regular use for these drugs to reach full effectiveness.
They are available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. medication for adult add allows you to adjust the dosage of your medication to suit your needs. The immediate-release drugs begin working as soon as you swallow them. This is an ideal option in situations where you need 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 medications are designed to release its active ingredients over a longer time frame, typically throughout the day. This allows you to keep an even level of medication in your system, which can increase your adherence and overall compliance.
If you follow your doctor's instructions and avoid taking other medications or substances that are in a relationship with these medications, they're generally safe. They are primarily controlled substances due to their potential for abuse, which is why you'll need a prescription from your doctor before starting the treatment.
The newer atomoxetine, sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree, as well as guanfacine, are not stimulants. Both of these drugs block the reabsorption of norepinephrine, a chemical in the brain. medication for adults with add are effective in decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, but don't improve concentration as well as stimulants do.
Be aware that not all people respond to non-stimulant adhd medication, so always discuss your options with your doctor. Every medication has its own side effects and can affect people differently. It's important to be open and honest about your feelings regarding the medication to your doctor, so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Consult your physician when you plan to become pregnant or want to breastfeed, as some of these medications can pass through the breast milk. It is also advisable to consult your doctor if you have any other health constraints, such as heart conditions which could affect how well these medications work.