ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are first-choice ADHD drugs, have the most research behind them, and are quick-acting. However, they're not for everyone.
These drugs increase the communication between nerves and the regions of the brain to reduce symptoms of ADHD. These medications can also cause side-effects like a change in heart rate or blood pressure and a loss of appetite.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular medications used to treat ADHD. They are known for improving attention span and reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and increasing focus and self-discipline. They can also raise the heart rate and blood pressure, which is dangerous for some. Stimulants are used for both medical and non-medical purposes such as recreational drugs as well as weight loss aids. They also include illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine 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 and chewable tablets. Amphetamines are the earliest and most well-known of these drugs, and methylphenidates are becoming more commonplace as time passes. These drugs alter the way that neurotransmitters receptors, as well as other brain chemicals are utilized to treat ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulant medications fall into the first-line treatment category however, some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line treatment or in conjunction with other treatments. They are a great option for giving relief for symptoms quickly that can be felt within a matter of hours after taking them. However, it may take several weeks of consistent use for these medications to achieve their full effectiveness.
These drugs are available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. This flexibility lets you alter the dosage of your medication according to your requirements. The immediate-release drugs begin working when you take them. This is a great option for situations where you want to manage symptoms quickly, for instance during a test or if you're involved in a sports event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medicines are designed to release active ingredients over a longer period, usually throughout the day. This allows you to maintain a constant level of the medication in your body, which could increase your compliance and overall adherence to your treatment plan.
If you follow your doctor's instructions and do not take any other medications or substances that interact with these medications they are generally safe. These are generally controlled substances due to their potential for abuse. You'll need a prescription before you start taking them.
Some medications that aren't considered stimulants include the more recent atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both drugs affect the brain chemical norepinephrine through inhibiting its absorption. They're effective for reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity, but they don't help improve concentration as much as stimulants do.
Always discuss your options with a doctor. Every medication has its own side effects and can affect individuals differently. It is essential to be honest and honest about your feelings about the medication with your doctor, so that you can modify the dosage if necessary. Talk to your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or breastfeeding in the future, as certain medications can pass through the breast milk. Ask how to treat adhd without medication in adults about other health issues like heart disease that could impact the effectiveness of these medications.