Everything You Need To Be Aware Of Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD medication, as they're the most researched and have a fast-acting effect. However, they're not suitable for everyone.
These drugs increase the communication between nerves and regions in the brain to lessen symptoms of ADHD. These medications can also trigger negative side effects, such as a rise in heart rate or blood pressure and an increase in appetite.
Stimulants
The most common medication used to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are known for enhancing the duration of attention span, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity and increasing focus and discipline. They also have a reputation for increasing blood pressure and heart rate which could be harmful in some people. Stimulants are used for both medical and non-medical reasons such as recreational drugs as well as weight loss aids. They also include illegal drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
The two most commonly used stimulant drugs prescribed for ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. They're both available in a variety of forms, such as pills, liquids, skin patches and chewable tablets. Amphetamines are the earliest and most well-known of these drugs, and methylphenidates are becoming more commonly prescribed as the years go by. Medications containing these ingredients work by altering the way that certain neurotransmitters and receptors are used within the brain, thereby reducing symptoms of ADHD.
The majority of stimulant medications fall into the category of first-line treatment, although some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line therapy or in conjunction with other treatments. Stimulants have the advantage of providing rapid symptom relief, which can be felt within a matter of hours after taking them. However, it can take several weeks of consistent use for these medications to be effective.
They come in immediate-release and extended-release forms. This flexibility allows for you to adjust your medication intake to fit your requirements. Medications that are taken immediately begin to work as soon as they're taken in and are beneficial in situations that require rapid control of symptoms for instance, prior to an important test, or during sporting events or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medicine is designed to release its active ingredients over a longer period of time, usually throughout the entire day. This allows you to keep the same amount of medication in your system, which can help increase your compliance and overall adherence.
They are generally safe provided you follow the prescriptions from your doctor and avoid other medications or substances that interact with them. These are mostly controlled substances due to their potential for abuse. You will require a prescription before you begin taking these drugs.
Some medications that aren't classified as stimulants include the more recent atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and Guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both of these drugs block the reabsorption process of norepinephrine an essential brain chemical. They're effective for cutting down on hyperactivity and impulsivity but don't improve concentration as much as stimulants do.
Always discuss your options with a physician. Every medication has its own side effects and can affect people differently. It is important to be open and honest about your feelings regarding the medication you are taking with your doctor, so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Also talk with I Am Psychiatry to when you begin to become pregnant or begin breastfeeding because certain medications can be absorbed by breast milk. It is also advisable to consult your doctor if you have any other health issues such as heart issues which could affect the effectiveness of these drugs.