ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medication is the first choice for ADHD medication, as they're the most studied and have the fastest-acting effects. However, they aren't for everyone.
These drugs increase the communication between nerves and the regions of the brain, thereby reducing symptoms of ADHD. They can also have negative side effects, such as a loss of appetite and changes in blood pressure or heart rate.
Stimulants
The most frequently used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They're known for enhancing concentration as well as reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and increasing self-control and focus. adhd medication side effects can also raise the heart rate and blood pressure and can be harmful for some. Stimulants have a long history of use, both for medical and non-medical uses and recreational use, such as stimulants for performance as well as weight loss aids and illicit drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine (meth) or other synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are two most popular stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They're both available in different forms, such as liquids, pills skin patches, chewable tablets. Amphetamines, the oldest and most commonly used of these medications are becoming less prescribed. The medicines that contain these ingredients work by altering the way that certain neurotransmitters and receptors work within the brain, thereby reducing 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 in conjunction with other treatments. They are a great option for offering quick relief from symptoms and can be felt within hours of taking them. However, it could take several weeks of consistent use for these drugs to reach full effectiveness.
These drugs are available in immediate-release and prolonged-release formulations. This flexibility allows for you to modify your medication intake to fit your requirements. The immediate-release drugs begin working as soon as you swallow them. This is a great option in situations where you need to control symptoms quickly, such as during a test or if you're taking part in a sporting event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medicine is designed to release its active ingredients over a long time frame, typically throughout the entire day. This helps to maintain a constant level of the medication in your body, which will increase compliance and overall adhesion to your treatment plan.
If you follow the doctor's recommendations and do not take any other medications or substances that interact with these medications they are generally safe. They are primarily controlled substances because of their potential for abuse, therefore you will have to get an appointment with your doctor before starting them.
The newer atomoxetine, sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree, and guanfacine are not stimulants. Both these medications affect the brain chemical norepinephrine through inhibiting its reabsorption. They can be effective in reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity, however they don't enhance concentration as much as stimulants do.
Be aware that not everyone will respond to non-stimulant adhd medication Always discuss your options with your doctor. Every medication has its own side effects and can affect people differently. It is important to be open and honest about your feelings about the medication with your doctor to allow you to adjust the dosage if needed. Also talk with your doctor prior to when you start to have babies or become pregnant because certain drugs may be absorbed by breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you have other health conditions like heart disease could affect the effectiveness of these medicines.