ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are first-choice ADHD medications, they are the ones with the most research behind them, and they are quick-acting. However, they aren't for everyone.
These medications enhance the signaling between brain regions and nerves to reduce ADHD symptoms. They can also trigger adverse effects such as the loss of appetite or changes in heart rate or blood pressure.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They're known for improving concentration, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity as well as increasing self-control and focus. They can also increase heart rate and blood pressure and can be harmful for certain people. The use of stimulants is for medical and non-medical reasons, including recreational drugs as well as weight loss aids. They also include illegal drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two most commonly prescribed stimulants to treat ADHD. They're both available in various forms, such as liquids, pills skin patches, chewable tablets. Amphetamines, which are the oldest and most commonly used of these medications, are now less prescribed. The medicines that contain these ingredients work by altering the way certain neurotransmitters and receptors work within the brain, thereby reducing symptoms of ADHD.
The majority of stimulant medications fall into the first-line treatment category, however, some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line treatment or when combined with other treatments. The benefits of stimulants are providing rapid symptom relief, which can be felt within a few hours of taking them. It could take several weeks for these medications to reach their full effectiveness.
These drugs are available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. This flexibility allows you to modify the dosage of your medication to suit your needs. The immediate-release medications begin to work as soon as you swallow them. This is an ideal option for situations where you want to treat symptoms quickly, like during a test, or if you're participating in a sporting event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medications are designed to release active ingredients over a longer time frame, typically throughout the entire day. This allows you to keep a steady amount of the medication within your body, which will increase your compliance and overall adherence to your treatment plan.
If you follow the prescriptions of your doctor and refrain from taking any other medications or substances that interact with these medications they are generally safe. They're primarily controlled substances due to their potential for abuse, which is why you'll need a prescription from your physician before starting the treatment.
The newer atomoxetine that is sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree, as well as guanfacine, are not stimulants. medication for adult add by inhibiting its absorption. They can be effective in decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, however they don't enhance concentration as much as stimulants do.
Always discuss your options with a physician. Every medication has its own set of side effects and may affect people differently. It is important to remain honest and open with your doctor about your feelings about the medication, so that you can alter your dosage if needed. Talk to your doctor when you plan to become pregnant or breastfeed in the future, as certain medications can be absorbed through breast milk. Ask your doctor about other health issues like heart disease could affect the effectiveness of these drugs.