ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are first-choice ADHD drugs, have the most research behind them, and are fast-acting. But they're not for everyone.
These medications increase the signaling between nerves and the regions of the brain to lessen symptoms of ADHD. adult add medication can also cause adverse effects such as a change in blood pressure or heart rate as well as a loss of appetite.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs used to treat ADHD. They are renowned for increasing the amount of time spent in school, decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and increasing focus and discipline. They are also known for increasing blood pressure and heart rate which could be harmful in some people. The history of stimulants is long of use, both for medical and non-medical reasons such as recreational drugs, performance enhancers, weight loss aids, and illicit drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine (meth) or other synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two most popular stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. Both are available in a variety of forms like liquids, pills and patches on the skin. Amphetamines are the most renowned and most well-known of these drugs, are becoming less prescribed. Medications containing these ingredients work by altering the way that certain neurotransmitters and receptors are used within the brain to reduce symptoms of ADHD.
The majority of stimulant medicines are considered first-line treatments, though some doctors may choose to prescribe them second-line or as a combination treatment. The stimulants can provide quick relief of symptoms that is felt in just hours after having taken them. It may take several weeks for these drugs to reach to achieve their full effectiveness.
They come in immediate-release and extended-release versions. This flexibility allows you to alter the dosage of your medication to meet your needs. The immediate-release medications start working as soon as you swallow them. This is a great choice for situations where you want to treat symptoms quickly, like during a test, or if you're taking part in a sporting event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medications are designed to release the active ingredients over a long period of time, usually throughout the entire day. This allows you to maintain the same amount of medication in your system, which will help increase your adherence and overall compliance.
These medicines are generally safe to take provided you follow the prescriptions from your doctor and avoid other medications or substances that interact with them. They're mostly controlled substances because of their potential for abuse, which is why you'll need a prescription from your doctor before you begin taking the treatment.
Medications that aren't classified as stimulants include the newer atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both drugs target the brain chemical norepinephrine through stopping its absorption. They are effective in reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity, but they don't help improve concentration as as stimulants do.
Always discuss your options with a doctor. Every medication has its own side effects and can affect people differently. It is important to be open and honest about your feelings regarding the medication you are taking with your doctor, so that you can alter the dosage as needed. Talk to your doctor before you begin to become pregnant or begin breastfeeding because certain drugs may be absorbed through breast milk. You should also consult your doctor if you have any other health issues, such as heart conditions that could affect how well these medications work.