Over The Counter ADHD Medication 101 Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
The medications treat ADHD by targeting brain chemicals that influence attention and impulse control. They are available in a variety of forms, from tablets that can be chewed or swallowed to liquids and patches.
Stimulants, including methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin and Concerta) increase activity in areas of the brain that control attention. They're also available in longer-acting versions that release medications throughout the day and help limit fluctuations in symptoms.
Non-stimulant drugs
Many people take medication to improve their focus and control of impulses. These medications may be addictive however they are the most efficient. If your doctor feels that stimulants aren't working or cause unpleasant side effects, they may suggest switching to non-stimulant medications. These drugs take longer to work but can alleviate symptoms. These drugs may also be more effective when paired with other treatments.
The two primary types of ADHD treatments are stimulants as well as non-stimulant medicines. The stimulants most commonly used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidate. These drugs come in various forms, including immediate-release versions and long-acting ones. Immediate-release stimulants may be taken at any time and are usually taken at the beginning of the day. Long-acting stimulants are administered once every morning and last from six to 16 hours. Most people who take these medications take a mixture of long-acting and immediate-release medication to manage their symptoms throughout the day.
Alpha antagonists and norepinephrine modulators are both non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat ADHD. Norepinephrine modulators include Atomoxetine (Stattera) and Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). The alpha agonists used to treat ADHD are clonidine (Catapres Kapvay, Catapres) and Guanfacine (Tenex, intuniv). The use of stimulants can be dangerous for adolescents with drug addiction issues or an history of substance abuse. Non-stimulant medication could be a great alternative for this population since they don't carry the same danger of addiction or side effects.
Many people find that their first ADHD medication isn't working or causes negative side effects that are uncomfortable. It's crucial to speak to your doctor and test various medications if needed. Your doctor can tell you whether the medication you're taking is working by looking for specific side-effects like heart rate fluctuations or ringing in the ears, or a change in blood pressure. You should also discuss any other medications or supplements that your child or you are taking, regardless of whether they are prescribed or available over the counter.
Antidepressants
The most common medication used to treat ADHD is stimulant medication. They activate the central nervous systems, increasing alertness and decreasing distraction. They can also improve concentration, and have the added benefit of helping people to be more in control of their emotions and behaviors. Most people tolerate these medications well, but there are some negative side effects. Some people may experience a decline in appetite or drowsiness while others may develop an increased heart rate or sleepiness. People with a history of bipolar or depression disorder are at greater risk of developing psychosis when taking stimulant medications.
Certain stimulant medications can cause people to feel angry or aggressive, especially when they first begin taking the drug. If these symptoms persist, patients should consult their physician to adjust the dosage or to try a different medication. These stimulants can also increase blood pressure and cause seizures in some individuals. Some individuals may experience a decrease in sexual desire or delayed ejaculation when taking the medications.
Some antidepressants, including serotonin-boosting drugs, can also affect the effectiveness of certain ADHD medications. This could result in the loss of effectiveness, so it's important that those suffering from both conditions discuss their medication requirements with their physician.
Certain ADHD medications can interact negatively with anxiety or depression in adults and children. It is important to discuss both of these issues with your doctor, since you may be able find an medication that can address all of your symptoms.
Antidepressants are generally well-accepted by adolescents and teens, but suicidal thoughts should be monitored closely. In cases of severe or persistent suicidal thoughts, a medical professional should be immediately contacted. This can be done by dialing 911 or calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Some antidepressants may increase feelings of guilt and despair. This is particularly applicable to tricyclics like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl or Pamelor). These drugs are typically prescribed for ADHD off-label, but can be helpful when other treatments have failed.
Blood pressure medications
The medications that reduce blood pressure can help in controlling ADHD symptoms, like problems with sleep and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres) and guanfacine's long-acting (Intuniv) and atomoxetine(Atomoxetine) belong to the class of medications known as alpha-agonists. These medicines are approved to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used to treat ADHD "off label" for many years. These drugs reduce anxiety, improve sleep and increase concentration. They can also trigger an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, so they are more secure as opposed to stimulants.
It's unclear if these drugs affect the long-term development of brain cells in children and teenagers. Researchers are also unsure whether they will have a long-lasting impact on heart-related problems in these people, and certain experts are cautious about their use. adhd medications for adults can also increase the risk of having seizures in certain people. The American Heart Association recommends that people with a history of stroke, heart disease or other cardiovascular issues have an evaluation of their heart before beginning these medications.
Stimulant ADHD medication is habit-forming and can cause a rise in heart rate and blood pressure. It can also have negative effects on appetite and sleep. Furthermore it's not suitable for infants and children. It can also have negative effects on the brains of children, which may lead to the use of drugs.
The FDA warns that teens and adults with ADHD who suffer from untreated anxiety or depression should not be taking stimulant medication. People with these conditions should seek out psychosocial treatment. This is a form of therapy that helps develop positive coping skills and assists in improve social interactions.
The majority of prescription ADHD medications can cause adverse effects, including stomach upset, headaches and trouble sleeping. If the effects are severe, a doctor may reduce your dose or switch to a different drug. If you notice any serious side effects such as heart palpitations and hallucinations, contact your doctor immediately.
Even if they claim to be, over-the-counter supplements and medications are not helpful in treating ADHD. Many minerals and vitamins do not have a scientific basis, and some can interact with certain medications. Discuss with your doctor all supplements and medications you take including those that are over-the-counter.
Other medications
The majority of clinical guidelines recommend stimulant drugs as the first choice of treatment for ADHD. But they don't work for all, and there's evidence that suggests that non-stimulant medications can be equally effective for certain individuals. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medication includes viloxazine as well as Atomoxetine, both of which are available in the form of Qelbree. Clonidine ER or guanfacine can be prescribed for children 6-17 years old. These drugs boost certain brain chemicals that increase attention span, working memory, and impulse control.
In addition to these medicines, many doctors prescribe other medications to treat ADHD. These are typically antidepressants or other drugs that alter brain chemical. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that helps some people suffering from ADHD and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a stimulant drug commonly prescribed off-label to treat the condition.
These medications are available as capsules, liquids, patches, or tablets. It is essential to study the labels carefully to be sure you or your child are taking the right dose. Also, ensure that you inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you take, including over-the-counter medicines and herbal remedies. Some may interact with ADHD medications and trigger unwanted adverse side effects.
Natural treatments for ADHD can help a small number of people but they do not have the same scientific support as the medications that have been approved by the FDA. For example, the herb DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) is sometimes sold as an over-the-counter ADHD treatment, but the FDA warns that it can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to serious health problems. St. John's Wort is another herb that people recommend for ADHD. However the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is no evidence to support its effectiveness.
Over-the-counter ADHD medication isn't a replacement for medical care. If you or your child has symptoms of the disorder, speak to your doctor about these medications. Consult your physician about the best treatment options should you or your child decide that prescription medication is the best option. He or she will consider the lifestyle of your family, any other medications your child or you takes, and your medical history to find the right medication.