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ADHD Medications – Stimulant Or Non Stimulant? For a lot of people, stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. However, for some, they cause side effects or do not help. Some doctors prescribe stimulants in addition to non-stimulant ADHD medication. These medicines include ones that treat high blood pressure, like the clonidine drug and guanfacine HCL (Tenex). These include other medicines that help to increase awakening. Benefits The first drug doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. They improve communication between brain nerves. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine which help improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are available in a variety of forms however they all are classified into two categories: methylphenidates or amphetamines. They are controlled substances because of their potential misuse. These medications are strictly regulated in terms of dosage, distribution and usage. Doctors may prescribe a mix of stimulant and nonstimulant medications. They may do this because a stimulant isn't working well enough or because of intolerable side effects or because a patient has an underlying mental health condition that needs to be treated. Adults and children are often treated with treatment in combination. Viloxazine, guanfacine, and Atomoxetine are all non-stimulant drugs. These drugs are well-tolerated and don't carry the same risks of addiction or abuse like stimulants. They can take longer to start working and they aren't as long-lasting as stimulants do, but they are often effective in treating symptoms of ADHD. Most people who take nonstimulant ADHD medication experience moderate to mild side-effects. They can experience headaches, stomach upsets, and sleepiness. Some people might be more difficult to stay awake when taking these medications, but this tends to be less of an issue for children than adults. Speak to your doctor if you or your child are considering treatment for ADHD. They'll discuss the various medications, their benefits and risks and how to start. They will also help you determine the right medication and dosage for you. It could require a few tries to determine the correct dosage and medication. The goal is to control your ADHD symptoms with the lowest amount of adverse consequences. Once you find the right medication, it's crucial to stick with it because when you stop using it, your symptoms will return. Most people suffering from ADHD require these medications for the rest of their lives. Dosage Stimulant medications like Adderall (methylphenidate/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which boosts communication between nerves. This improves concentration, focus and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. It is the first type that doctors prescribe for ADHD. However, it doesn't work for everyone and may cause side effects that are intolerable. Non-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine), are FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults. They reduce symptoms by directly affecting the prefrontal cortices of the brain, creating a calming affect. They are typically utilized in conjunction with stimulant medications or if the stimulant medication isn't working for you. Both atomoxetine (also called guanfacine) and guanfacine belong to the class of alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists drugs. This means that they work by blocking receptors which transmit dopamine from one cell to another. This permits other chemicals in the brain, like norepinephrine, to enter the brain and create an calming effect that enhances attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. The methylphenidate, amphetamine, and various other classes of ADHD drugs are effective in alleviating or eliminating symptoms associated with ADHD. However they can also be misused and addictive, leading to an overdose. These substances are categorized as controlled substances, and they come with “boxed” warnings that warn users of the risks. They are also vulnerable to shortages. Short-acting stimulants begin to work within 30 minutes and last for 3 to 4 hours. They can be taken as frequently as three times per day. Intermediate and long-acting stimulates take longer to act, but they can provide relief from symptoms for between 8 and 16 hours. They can be used just once per day and can be a good choice when you are struggling to remember to take your medication at the same time each day. Some suffer from the rebound effect, as the medication wears off, and their symptoms revert to their prior levels. This can result in short-lasting fatigue, a bad mood and an intense hunger. adhd medication pregnancy can be prevented by altering the dosage, when it is taken, or the kind of medication. If you're experiencing this issue, talk to your doctor about the best way to make changes to your medication. Side effects Stimulant ADHD medications increase dopamine levels in the brain, encouraging focus and reducing hyperactive and impulsive behavior. They can also help improve memory and reduce aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These are typically taken orally in capsules, although some children may consume them in chewable tablets or drops. These stimulants can trigger adverse effects, such as dry mouth, decreased appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some cases these effects are not serious and fade when the medication has worn off. In other instances, they can be serious and require medical attention. Non-stimulant medication can help treat ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters within the brain. They also carry less risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. These medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness. To reduce the risk of drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat before the medication starts to work and stay clear of caffeine-based drinks. Many people notice that they are more responsive to the extended release versions of these medications. This is because these formulations build up gradually in the body, reducing the risk of the drug being worn off too quickly and making symptoms return more severe than they were before. They also can make it easier to take the medication on a regular basis particularly in the case that your child is having trouble keeping track of multiple pills. Most adults and children who are taking medication to treat ADHD will experience adverse effects. These side effects can be controlled by keeping track of the child's reactions and making adjustments to the dosage and taking the medication only as directed. If you or your child suffers bothersome or dangerous adverse effects, consult an expert in mental health regarding the possibility of switching to a different type of medication. It can take a while to find the best medication for someone suffering from ADHD. In addition, it's not uncommon for a doctor to switch you or your child between the two categories of medications—stimulant and non-stimulant—because one isn't effective or causes intolerable side effects. Monitoring The most important aspect to be aware of with ADHD medication is that it can help manage your symptoms but it's not an effective cure. Your doctor may have to keep an eye on you or your child and alter the dosage until it's effective in reducing your symptoms, with no side effects. ADHD treatment plans usually include medication, therapy, and support from family and teachers. The most common ADHD drugs are stimulant medicines. They function by increasing brain chemicals that help improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. Side effects can include a loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping stomachaches and headaches, jitteriness, and an increase in heart rate. It may take some time to find the right dosage and medication for you or your child's particular requirements. Sometimes it takes anywhere from several weeks to several months before the benefits of the drug are evident. During this period it is vital to follow the instructions of your doctor carefully and report any adverse effects. While stimulants can be fast-acting and have an advantage but they also come with a greater risk for abuse and dependency. Many people, particularly young children and adolescents are reluctant to take them due to this. Non-stimulant medications are just as effective and are better for people who are unable to tolerate the side effects of stimulants. There are a variety of non-stimulant drugs, including Atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as dextroamphetamine (Ritalin), and guanfacine (Concerta). These drugs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for other conditions, but are also used to treat ADHD “off-label”. A recent study revealed that the long-term use of ADHD medications is linked to a higher risk of CVD. The risk increased with amount of medication taken and was greater in both genders. The researchers recommend that individuals be monitored closely and undergo regular health screenings, specifically for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. This is especially true if there is a family history of cardiovascular disease.