ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are first-choice ADHD drugs, are the ones with the most research-based evidence behind them, and are quick-acting. But they aren't right for everyone.
These medications enhance the signaling between brain regions and nerves to decrease ADHD symptoms. iampsychiatry can also have negative side effects, such as an appetite loss and changes in heart rate or blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common medications used to treat ADHD. They are renowned for increasing attention span, decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and increasing focus and discipline. They are also known for raising blood pressure and heart rate, which can be dangerous in certain people. The history of stimulants is long of use for both medical and non-medical uses such as recreational drugs, enhancement of performance, weight loss aids, and illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine (meth) or other synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates are the two main stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They are both available in various forms like liquids, pills and patches for the skin. Amphetamines are the most renowned and most common of these drugs, are becoming less prescribed. Medications containing these ingredients work by changing the way certain neurotransmitters and receptors are used in the brain to lessen symptoms of ADHD.
Most stimulant medications fall under the first-line treatment category, however, some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line therapy or in combination with other treatments. Stimulants have the advantage of giving relief for symptoms quickly, which can be felt within a matter of hours after taking them. It can take up to several weeks for these medications to reach their full effectiveness to be realized.
These medications are available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. This flexibility lets you adjust the dosage of your medication to meet your needs. The medications that you take immediately begin to take effect immediately after they're taken in and can be beneficial when you require quick symptom control like before an important test or during sporting events or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medications are formulated to release their active ingredients over a prolonged period, typically throughout the day. This allows you to maintain a constant level of medication in your system, which will help improve your adherence and overall compliance.
If you follow the doctor's recommendations and do not take any other medications or substances which interact with these medications, they're generally safe. They're primarily controlled substances due to their potential for abuse, so you will have to get a prescription from your physician prior to starting these medications.
The medications that aren't considered stimulants include the atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both of these drugs work by blocking the reabsorption process of norepinephrine a chemical in the brain. These medications can be effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity however they don't enhance your concentration as much as stimulants.
Keep in mind that not everyone will respond to non-stimulant medications for adhd So, 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 to your doctor to allow you to modify the dosage if necessary. Also, talk with your doctor prior to when you become pregnant or start breastfeeding, since some of these drugs can be absorbed by breast milk. Consult your doctor if any other health issues, such as heart problems that could impact the effectiveness of these drugs.