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ADHD Medications – Stimulant Or Non Stimulant? For a lot of people stimulant medication is the first choice for treating ADHD. But for some patients, they trigger side effects or don't help. Doctors often prescribe non-stimulant ADHD medications instead, or in addition to stimulants. These medicines include ones that treat high blood pressure, like Clonidine and Guanfacine hcl (Tenex). They also include others that act to promote wakefulness. Benefits The first drug doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. They improve communication between nerves in the brain. These medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) dopamine and norepinephrine which help improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are available in different forms, but they all belong to two categories of drugs amphetamines or methylphenidates. They are controlled substances because of the possibility of misuse. The dosage, distribution and usage of these medications are tightly controlled. Doctors can prescribe a mixture of nonstimulant and stimulant drugs. They may do this due to a stimulant not functioning properly, because of side effects that are too extreme, or because the person suffers from a mental health issue that needs to be treated. Combination treatments are commonplace in children and adults. Nonstimulant medicines include atomoxetine viloxazine, and guanfacine. These medications are generally well-tolerated and don't pose the same danger of addiction or abuse as stimulants do. They may take longer to get started and they don't last as long as stimulants, however they're often effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD. The majority of people who use non-stimulant ADHD medication report mild to moderate side effects, including headaches, stomach upsets, dry mouth and insomnia. Some people may struggle to stay awake when taking these medications, but this tends to be less of a problem for children than adults. If you're thinking about taking the use of medication to treat your child's ADHD, talk to your doctor about it. They will explain the different medications with regards to their benefits and potential risks and how to get started. natural adhd medication 'll also help you select the best dosage and medication for you. It may take a few attempts to determine the appropriate dosage and medication. The aim is to manage your ADHD symptoms with the least amount of adverse effects. Once you've found the right medication, it is best to keep it in place. If you stop taking it your symptoms will come back. The majority of people suffering from ADHD will need to take these drugs for the rest of their lives. Dosage Stimulant medications like Adderall (methylphenidate/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate) increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which boosts communication between nerves. This improves focus, concentration and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is the first type that doctors prescribe for ADHD. However, it doesn't work for everyone and may cause undesirable side effects. FDA-approved non-stimulant medications like Strattera (atomoxetine), and Intuniv(guanfacine), can be used to treat ADHD among adults. They reduce symptoms by acting directly on the prefrontal cortex of the brain, creating an euphoric effect. They are usually employed in conjunction with stimulant medication or when the stimulant medication fails to work for you. Both atomoxetine (also known as guanfacine) and guanfacine belong to the class of alpha-2-adrenergic antagonists drugs. This means that they work by blocking receptors which transmit dopamine from one cell to the next. This permits other chemicals in the brain, such as norepinephrine, to enter the brain and produce a calming effect, which enhances attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. While the methylphenidate and amphetamine classes of medications are very efficient in cutting down or eliminating ADHD symptoms however, they also carry the risk for misuse, addiction and overdose. They're classified as controlled substances and have “boxed warnings” which warn users of the risks. These drugs are also susceptible to shortages. Short-acting stimulants begin to work within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. They can be taken as frequently as three times a day. Long-acting and intermediate stimulants are more difficult to activate however they can relieve symptoms for between 8 and 16 hours. They can be taken just once a day and are a good option if you have trouble remembering to take your medication at the same time each day. As the medication wears off some people suffer from a rebound effect. This means that their symptoms will return to their previous levels. This can result in short-lasting depression, fatigue and a heightened hunger. This can be prevented by adjusting the dosage, when it is taken, or the kind of medication. If you're experiencing this type of problem consult your physician about the best way to make adjustments to your medication. Side effects Stimulant ADHD medication increases dopamine levels in brain cells, which promotes concentration and decreases impulse-driven behavior. They can also improve memory and decrease aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These drugs are usually taken orally in capsule form but some children take them as chewable tablets or drops. Stimulants can cause side effects like dry mouth, decreased appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In some cases these effects are not serious and disappear as the medication wears off. In other instances these effects may be serious and need medical attention. Non-stimulant medications help manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters inside the brain. They may also have a lower dependency or dependency risk than stimulants. Common side effects of these medications include drowsiness and loss of appetite and dizziness. Drowsiness can be minimized by taking the medication earlier in the day, eating meals prior to when the medication starts to work and avoiding caffeine-rich beverages. A lot of people are more responsive to extended release drugs. These formulations are slowly absorbed within the body and decrease the chance of wearing out too quickly, causing symptoms to worsen. They also help you remember to take your medication, especially if either you or your child have difficulties keeping track of multiple pill bottles. Most children and adults who take medication to treat ADHD will experience some adverse effects. These side effects can be controlled by monitoring the reactions of your child or yourself, adjusting the dosage and taking the medication as prescribed. If you or your child is experiencing unpleasant or potentially dangerous side effects, consult with an expert in mental health regarding the possibility of switching to another type of medication. It can take a while to determine the most effective treatment for a person with ADHD. In addition, it's not uncommon for a doctor to switch you or your child between the two categories of medications—stimulant and non-stimulant—because one isn't effective or causes intolerable side effects. Monitoring The most important thing to keep in mind about ADHD medication is that it can assist you to manage your symptoms however it's not a cure. Your doctor can alter the dosage to control your symptoms while minimizing any adverse effects. Medication is typically just one part of the treatment program for ADHD, along with therapy and support from family and teachers. The most popular ADHD medication is stimulant. They work by increasing brain chemicals that improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. They can trigger a range of adverse effects, such as the loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, stomachaches, headaches, increased heart rate, jitteriness and, occasionally, shaking hands. It may take some time to determine the appropriate dosage and medication for you or your child's requirements. It may take several weeks or months for the benefits of a particular drug to be apparent. During this period, it is important to follow the doctor's prescriptions and report any adverse effects. While stimulants have the advantage of being fast-acting, they also have a higher risk of dependence and abuse. Many people, particularly young adults and children are reluctant to take them due to this. Non-stimulant drugs can be just as effective and are a great alternative for those who cannot take the adverse effects of stimulants. Non-stimulant medications include atomoxetine, dextroamphetamine and guanfacine. These drugs are endorsed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for other conditions, but can also be used to treat ADHD “off-label”. A recent study found that long-term use of ADHD medications is associated with a higher risk of CVD. The risk was increased with the dosage of the medication and was higher in both genders. Researchers recommend that patients be monitored closely and regularly undergo health screenings. This is especially true for those suffering from high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease. This is particularly true if there is a family history of cardiovascular disease.