What Over The Counter ADHD Medication Should Be Your Next Big Obsession?
Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
The medications are used to treat ADHD by targeting brain chemicals that affect the ability to focus and impulse control. They are available in different forms such as tablets that can be swallowed or chewed to patches and liquids.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate, often referred to by the brand names Ritalin or Concerta stimulate the activity in the brain areas that control attention. There are also long-acting versions these medications that release drugs continuously throughout the day, helping to lessen symptoms.
Non-stimulant drugs
Many people use medications to improve their attention and control of impulses. These drugs are addictive but they are also the most efficient. If you find that stimulants don't work for you or have undesirable adverse effects, your doctor might suggest switching to a non-stimulant medication. These drugs are more difficult to use but they can help alleviate symptoms. These medications are also more effective when combined with other treatments.
Non-stimulant and stimulant drugs are the two primary types of ADHD medication. The stimulants most commonly used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidate. There are a variety of versions of these drugs including immediate-release and longer-acting versions. Instant-release stimulants can be taken when required, and are typically taken at the beginning of the day. Long-acting stimulants are taken once every morning and last between six and 16 hours. Most people who use these medications combine long-acting medication with immediate-release medication in order to control their symptoms throughout the day.
Alpha antagonists and norepinephrine modulators are both non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat ADHD. Norepinephrine moderators include atomoxetine, (Stattera), and guanfacine, (Tenex or Intuniv). The alpha agonists used to treat ADHD are clonidine (Catapres Kapvay, Catapres) and guanfacine (Tenex Intuniv, Tenex). Teenagers who suffer from substance abuse issues or addiction to drugs could be at risk of taking stimulant medication. Non-stimulant drugs could be a great alternative for this population because they don't have the same risk of addiction or side effects.
Many people discover that their initial ADHD medication does not work or causes negative side effects that are uncomfortable. It's crucial to talk to your doctor about this and to try new medications if you need to. Your doctor can help figure out the extent to which your current medication is causing an effect by checking for specific side effects, such as heart rate fluctuations or ringing in the ear or an increase in blood pressure. It is also important to discuss any other medications or supplements that you or your child are taking, whether they are prescribed or over-the available.
Antidepressants
The most common medication used to treat ADHD is stimulant medications. They stimulate the central nervous system which increase alertness and reduce distraction. They also aid in improving your concentration and have the added benefit that they aid in feeling more in control of your mood and behavior. Most people can tolerate these medications well, however there are some negative side effects. Some individuals experience a loss of appetite or drowsiness, while others experience an increased heart rate or sleepiness. People who have a history of bipolar disorder or depression are more likely to develop psychosis after taking stimulant medication.
Certain stimulants can cause people to feel extremely angered or even violent at first, particularly if they are taking them for the first time. If these symptoms continue patients should talk to their physician to alter the dosage or try a different medication. Stimulants can also increase blood pressure, and higher doses of the drug can lead to seizures in some people. adult add medications can also affect sexual function, with some experiencing delayed ejaculation as well as a decreased desire to have sex.
In addition, some antidepressants can increase the activity of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin, and these medications can affect the effectiveness of some ADHD medication. This could lead to an impairment in effectiveness which is why it is crucial for people with both conditions to discuss their medication needs carefully with their doctors.
Certain ADHD medications can interact negatively with depression or anxiety in both children and adults. Anyone suffering from both ailments should be open to discussion with their doctor and might be able discover medications that treat all of their symptoms.
Antidepressants are often well-tolerated by teens and adolescents, but they should be monitored for suicidal thoughts. If suicidal feelings are severe or persistent, consult a physician immediately. Contact 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.
Certain antidepressants can cause feelings of guilt and despair. This is especially true for tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor). These medications are often prescribed for ADHD off-label, but can be helpful when other treatments have not worked.
Blood pressure medication
The drugs that lower blood pressure may aid in controlling ADHD symptoms, such as anxiety and sleep issues. Clonidine (Catapres), guanfacine long-acting (Intuniv) and atomoxetine(Atomoxetine), belong to a class of drugs known as alpha agonists. These medicines are approved to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used to treat ADHD "off label" for a long time. These medications can reduce the tics, improve sleep and boost attentiveness. They can also cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, so they are more secure than stimulants.
It's not clear whether these medications affect the long-term development of brain cells in teenagers and children. Certain experts aren't sure if these medications have a long-term impact on heart problems in teenagers and children. These medications may also increase the risk of seizures in some people. The American Heart Association recommends that those who have a history of stroke, heart disease or other cardiovascular problems have a cardiac evaluation before starting them.
Stimulant ADHD medication can cause habit-forming and can raise the heart rate and blood pressure. It can also negatively impact appetite and sleep. It's also not recommended for children or infants. It could also have negative long-term effects on the brains of children that could lead to drug abuse.
The FDA warns that teens and adults with ADHD who are suffering from depression or anxiety should not take stimulant medications. These people should consider psychosocial treatment, which entails behavioral therapy to teach positive coping skills and improve social interactions.
The majority of prescription ADHD medicines can trigger adverse reactions, including stomach upset, headaches and sleep problems. If the side effects are severe, your doctor may lower your dose or switch you to a different medication. If you experience a serious side effect like hallucinations or heart palpitations call your doctor right away.
Supplements and medications available over the counter aren't helpful for treating ADHD even if they claim to be. Many supplements and vitamins do not have a scientific basis, and some may interact with certain medications. Discuss with your doctor all supplements and medications you use, including those that are over-the-counter.
Other medications
Stimulant drugs are considered to be the first-choice treatments for ADHD by most guidelines for clinical practice. Non-stimulant drugs can be equally effective in certain instances. FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medication includes viloxazine and atomoxetine, both of which are available in the form of Qelbree. Clonidine ER or guanfacine can be prescribed for children aged 6-17 years old. These medications boost certain brain chemicals that increase attention span, working memory and impulse control.
Many doctors prescribe additional medications to treat ADHD in addition to these drugs. Most often, these are antidepressants or other medicines that alter brain chemical. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that helps some people with ADHD and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a different stimulant medication frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition.
These medications can be found as capsules, tablets, liquid, or patches. It is important to take the time to read the label thoroughly to ensure that you or your child is taking the right dosage. Also, make sure to tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal remedies. Some can interact with ADHD medications and trigger unwanted adverse side effects.
Natural remedies for ADHD may help some people but they don't have the same research basis as medications that have been 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 suggest for ADHD. However the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is little evidence that supports its effectiveness.
Over-the-counter ADHD medications aren't a substitute for medical attention. Consult your physician when you or your child is showing symptoms of the disorder. Then, if you decide that prescription medicine is the best option for you or your child talk to your doctor about the best treatment options. The doctor will take into consideration your family's lifestyle, as well as any other medications that you or your child taking in addition to your medical history, to find the best medication.