Ten Stereotypes About Non Stimulant ADHD Medication That Aren't Always The Truth
ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medication is the first choice for ADHD medication, as they're the most researched and have a rapid-acting effect. But they aren't right for everyone.
These drugs increase the communication between nerves and the regions of the brain, thereby reducing symptoms of ADHD. These medications can also trigger adverse effects such as a change in blood pressure or heart rate and the loss of appetite.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are known for enhancing the duration of attention span, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity and improving concentration and discipline. They can also increase blood pressure and heart rate and can be harmful for some people. Stimulants have a long history of use, both for medical and non-medical reasons, including recreational drugs, stimulants for performance and weight loss aids and illicit substances like methamphetamine, cocaine (meth) or other synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two most popular stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They're both available in various forms, such as pills, liquids skin patches, chewable tablets. Amphetamines, the oldest and most common of these drugs, are becoming less prescribed. Medications containing these ingredients work by altering the way certain neurotransmitters and receptors function in the brain to lessen symptoms of ADHD.
The majority of stimulant medications fall into the first-line treatment category, although some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line treatment when combined with other treatments. Stimulants provide rapid symptom relief that is felt in just hours after taking them. It can take up to several weeks for these medications' full effectiveness.
These medications are available in immediate-release and long-release formulations. This flexibility lets you adjust the dosage of your medication to suit your needs. Medicines that are taken immediately start to take effect as soon as they're taken in and are beneficial in situations that require immediate control of symptoms like before an important test or during sports or work events.
Extended-release stimulant medications are formulated to release their active ingredients over a prolonged duration, typically throughout the day. This helps to maintain a constant level of the medication within your body, which can increase your compliance and overall adherence to your treatment program.
These medicines are generally safe provided you follow the prescriptions from your doctor and stay clear of other medications or substances that interact with them. They're mostly controlled substances because of their potential for abuse, which is why you will have to get a prescription from your physician before you begin taking these medications.
The medications that aren't classified as stimulants include the newer atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both of these medications block the reabsorption process of norepinephrine a brain chemical. These medications are effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity however they don't enhance your concentration as much as stimulants do.
Always discuss your options with a physician. Every medication has its own set of side effects and may affect people differently. It's essential to remain open and honest with your doctor about your feelings about the medication so that you can alter the dosage if needed. Discuss with medications for adhd in adults when you plan to become pregnant or breastfeeding, as some of these medications can pass through the breast milk. You should also consult your physician if you have any other health concerns, such as heart conditions which could affect the effectiveness of these drugs.