Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're searching for an ADHD medication that doesn't comprise stimulants, there are several options. Some of them are available in generic forms, which means they're often less expensive.
Stimulants are medications that increase the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They're used to treat kids and adults who suffer from ADHD, but they can cause undesirable side effects or even not work at all.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an anti-stimulant drug, is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. adhd adults medication is a medication that blocks the action of a chemical within the brain that is known as norepinephrine. Although it is not as effective and efficient as other ADHD treatments, it can still be helpful for some people.
One of the main benefits of using a non stimulant ADHD drug like Strattera is that it is less prone for abuse and dependence than stimulants. Schedule II controlled substances are stimulant medications. This means they have strict federal rules concerning how they're produced and prescribed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication comes with another benefit doctors can contact the pharmacy to request refills, instead of writing a new prescription every month. This could spare many from having to visit their doctor each month.
Strattera is also less likely to cause side effects than other ADHD medications. Because it's not a stimulant, this is one reason. It could cause serious issues for those with heart disease or other issues in the past.
As a result, it's crucial to inform your doctor if you have any heart-related issues or you're taking other drugs that affect the heart. They'll want to check your blood pressure, heart rate and other health indicators while you're on Strattera to make sure it's working as intended.
Talk to your doctor for liver problems such as jaundice, yellowing of the eyes, or skin. Tests to determine levels of liver enzymes can help your doctor determine the right dosage for you.
Strattera has been linked to strokes and heart attacks in a tiny proportion of those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or other health problems. These risks are more likely during the initial treatment phase and after the dose is altered.
A similar condition called pheochromocytoma could be found in people who are taking Strattera. These symptoms can be very severe, so your doctor should be sure that you're not at risk.
Other side effects of Strattera include a decreased appetite, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting constipation, weight loss headache and dry mouth. These effects typically go away after some time.
Atomoxetine
The non stimulant ADHD medication atomoxetine, sold under the brand name Strattera is a selective reuptake of norepinephrine inhibitor (SNRI). It affects the brain by increasing focus and reducing anxiety in those with hyperactive, concentration or impulse control issues. It is a great option to use in conjunction with other ADHD treatments.
It was the first non-stimulant medicine to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment for adults. It is frequently used off-label as a treatment for depression. It is an inhibitor selective of norepinephrine-related uptake and targets the frontocortical subsystem in which ADHD symptoms develop. It also blocks serotonin transporter (SERT) and N-methyl D-aspartate receptors. These are involved in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have proven that atomoxetine can have a significant effect on ADHD symptoms, especially in children. Additionally it has been associated with fewer adverse reactions than immediate-release methylphenidate.
However, atomoxetine can be associated with changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Clinical trials have demonstrated that 15 to 26 percent of children, adolescents, and 32 percent of adults experience measurable, but statistically insignificant increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
In general, this rise is temporary and typically returns to the baseline. It is crucial to keep track of the changes. It is important to monitor blood pressure during initial treatment as well as throughout the course of therapy. A chart of the percentile is a good way to keep track of blood pressure. Patients with a history of hypertension should have their blood pressure monitored more often.
Other side effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness. These effects are typically temporary and disappear when the medication is used regularly.
It may take a few weeks before atomoxetine can provide its full benefits. Talk to your doctor If you don't experience any improvement after taking atomoxetine. You may need to increase your dosage or take it more frequently.
Avoid driving or operating machinery that is heavy while taking this medication, as you may get sleepy and have trouble functioning. If you are pregnant or plan to have one, consult your doctor. It is crucial to keep all medicines out of reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is an adhd medication that is non-stimulant, was approved by FDA in 2009. The medication works by altering the brain's nerve impulses to relax blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure, and helps treat ADHD symptoms, including hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Contrary to the traditional stimulant medications, clonidine doesn't have any side effects or addictive properties. It is also used to treat sleep issues.
The medication is available in the form of a tablet (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets should be taken two times a day in the morning and at evening. The tablets can be taken with or without food.
If you have any questions regarding how to use this medication, consult your physician or pharmacist. Make sure you follow the directions on the prescription label.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure. This includes alcohol, certain prescription drugs, and a few prescription and over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Clonidine shouldn't be used in conjunction with surgery or any other medical procedure. It is important to not combine clonidine with any other medication that can slow your heart rate, like tranquilizers or drugs.
Your doctor may want to check your blood pressure prior to and after taking clonidine. This will help your doctor decide if it is necessary to take a second test to ensure that you don't have any underlying conditions that could be affected by this medication.
The most frequent adverse effects of clonidine include headache, drowsiness mouth, and a reduced heart rate. These effects typically occur after the first dose, or over several weeks of treatment . They are not life-threatening.
If you experience any serious adverse effects while taking this medication, talk with your doctor immediately. These effects could include a slower heart rate, confusion, or having trouble urinating.
Patients with kidney problems or diabetes could be at greater risk of side effects from the clonidine. Clonidine can reduce the body's ability to remove blood sugar from your blood. Your doctor may recommend the use of a lower dose of Clonidine if you have kidney disease or diabetes.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non-stimulant medicine, is used to treat ADHD. (ADHD). It works by strengthening the areas of the brain that regulate executive functions. These include working memory, impulse control, and attention. It is believed that it will strengthen connections between the brain's prefrontal cortex and other brain regions.
It can be purchased in the form of an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. Both are taken before nighttime. The dosage is based on your weight, the efficacy of the medication, and any other medications you may be taking.
The initial dose is typically 1 mg per day however your doctor may alter the dosage, if necessary. It is important to take this medication regularly and follow the directions carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you about any side effects that you should be aware of. These can include: dry mouth, weakness, or headache.
These side effects usually get better within a few days of starting the medication. If they don't, contact your doctor immediately.
Guanfacine should not be taken for those who are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. It is not recommended to use it if taking antihistamines, barbiturates or other sedatives.
Additionally, you should not take this medication if your condition is low blood pressure or an antecedent history of heart disease or stroke. This can cause severe side effects when taking guanfacine.
Children and teens should take this medication with extreme caution. It can cause drowsiness which could make it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. Additionally, they are more likely to be violent or exhibit the tics.
Guanfacine is to be used with caution for older adults. This is because they are more likely to experience serious adverse effects, like falls, accidents or injuries. It is also more difficult for them to eliminate the body of guanfacine which increases the risk of serious side effects.
Guanfacine could make it more difficult to drive or operate machinery due to the effects of drowsiness. It is best not to operate machinery or drive any vehicle that requires you to be alert until you are certain that it will not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.