ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first-choice ADHD medication, as they're the most studied and have the fastest-acting effects. But they're not right for everyone.
These medications enhance the signaling between nerves and brain regions to decrease ADHD symptoms. These medications can also trigger negative side effects, such as a rise in heart rate or blood pressure and the loss of appetite.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular treatments for ADHD. They're known for enhancing the quality of attention span, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity and enhancing focus and self-discipline. They are also known for raising heart rate and blood pressure and can cause harm for some people. They are used for medical and non-medical purposes including recreational drugs as well as weight loss aids. They also include illegal drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
adhd medication list used stimulant drugs prescribed for ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. They're both available in various forms, such as pills, liquids, skin patches and chewable tablets. Amphetamines, the oldest and most well-known of these drugs, are becoming less prescribed. These medications work by altering the way that neurotransmitters receptors, brain chemicals are utilized to treat ADHD symptoms.
Most stimulant medications are considered first-line treatments however some doctors may decide to prescribe them as second-line treatments or as a combination treatment. The benefits of stimulants are giving relief for symptoms quickly, which can be felt within a matter of hours after taking them. However, it can take several weeks of consistent usage for these medicines to be effective.
These medications are available in immediate-release and prolonged-release formulations. This flexibility allows for you to modify your medication intake to fit your needs. The immediate-release medications start working as soon as you swallow them. This is a great choice in situations where you need to treat symptoms quickly, like during a test, or if you're participating in a sporting event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medication is formulated to release its active ingredients over a longer period of time, typically throughout the entire day. This helps maintain a constant level of the medication within your body, which will increase your compliance and overall adherence to your treatment plan.
If you follow the prescriptions of your doctor and avoid taking other medications or substances that are in a relationship with these medications, they are generally safe. They are primarily controlled substances due to their potential for abuse, so you will have to get a prescription from your doctor before you begin taking these medications.
The newer atomoxetine, sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree and guanfacine are not stimulants. Both of these drugs are aimed at the brain chemical norepinephrine by blocking its reabsorption. These medications are effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity however they don't enhance your concentration as much as stimulants.
Keep in mind that not all people respond to non-stimulant adhd medication Always discuss your options with your physician. Every medication has its own set of side effects and may affect people differently. It is important to be open and honest about your feelings about the medication with your doctor to allow you to modify the dosage if necessary. Talk with your doctor prior to when you become pregnant or start breastfeeding as certain drugs may pass through breast milk. It is also advisable to consult your doctor if you have any other health issues such as heart issues that could affect how well these medications work.