ADHD Medication - The Difference Between Stimulant and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can improve your child's concentration, impulse control and ability to complete tasks. But it's not a cure-all.
Stimulants improve the communication between nerves in the brain, which reduces impulsiveness and excessive activity. Medications include short-acting stimulants that require multiple times throughout the day, and long-acting stimulants that work up to 12 hours a day.
Stimulants
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated first with stimulant medication. They increase levels of dopamine which improve concentration and reduces impulsive behavior. The drugs are most effective when they are used regularly. However, they can also trigger side effects, such as anxiety, insomnia and a rapid heart rate. They may also turn into a habit. buy adhd medication uk is why it's important to consult with your doctor when starting or stopping medication, and always adhere to their recommendations regarding dosage, frequency and usage.
Stimulant medications are available in both short-acting and long-acting forms. The short-acting stimulants are peaking in a short time and must be taken twice a day. Meanwhile, the long-acting drugs - Ritalin (methylphenidate), Concerta(methylphenidate), Adderall(amphetamine), and Vyvanse(lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) can last for up to eight hours. Long-acting drugs can cut down on the need to take additional doses throughout the day. However it can be difficult to remember.
Because stimulants are considered controlled substances in the majority of jurisdictions and require a prescription to get them. You'll also be subject to strict rules when it comes to refilling or switching doctors. The good news is that there are other options that provide similar advantages without the risk of addiction or abuse. These medications include:
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to begin working and you may not experience the full benefits until you've been using them regularly for three to four weeks. If you're struggling to get motivated, are sensitive to the effects of side effects, or cannot take stimulants because of a family history of heart problems or addiction, these medicines could be the right choice for you.
Drugs like Strattera (atomoxetine), Kapvay (clonidine hydrochloride) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are designed to increase the amount of norepinephrine in your brain, which can improve concentration and control impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are prescribed "off-label", meaning that they are not FDA approved for ADHD. However they have been used to treat other disorders for years and have shown to be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Vyvamind, a natural alternative for prescription ADHD medication that combines cognitive support ingredients, is a fantastic choice. It provides real-world improvement in mental endurance and agility. It is designed to combat mental fatigue, which can be a hindrance for those suffering from ADHD. It also boosts mood and resilience to stressful situations. These are important aspects of managing ADHD symptoms.
Antidepressants
Although stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication for adults, they're not appropriate or safe for everyone. Other adverse effects include headaches, less appetite and insomnia. This is why some doctors opt for non-stimulant ADHD medications. These drugs work differently than stimulants and don't have the same negative side effects.
In this category, medications include atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR). Similar to stimulants, they raise levels of the chemical messengers norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. The difference is that they only do this in a specific part of the brain, that is involved in the process of focusing. These antidepressants can be prescribed to treat depression, anxiety and ADHD.
The FDA hasn't yet officially approved them for this purpose however, some doctors do prescribe them as an off-label treatment for ADHD. They are typically prescribed after other treatments, such as exercise and diet do not seem to be effective in helping. Some experts believe that antidepressants could aid in the treatment of ADHD by improving mood and decreasing anxiety and irritability. These could affect how a person concentrates.
They are also less likely to be abused and do not impact weight growth or gain. They also reduce the frequency of tics, like eye blinking and throat clearing, but may make them more apparent. They could increase heart rate, which could be dangerous for those with heart issues or those who have a history of heart issues.
Research shows that mixing stimulants and these medications can make them both more effective than on their own. Before trying this combination, it's important to consult your physician.
Children younger than 12 years old age are not advised to consume stimulants. They might cause long-term changes in the brains of teenagers and young kids which can be detrimental for their mental health in later life. They can also cause weight loss and decrease appetite, and they may increase the risk of seizures for certain children.
While it's not uncommon however, some children suffer from severe ADHD that doesn't respond to stimulant medications. They might require another treatment, such as the atomoxetine XR or the guanfacine.
Other medications
Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD and are often the first medicine prescribed by a doctor. These drugs can help improve focus and memory but they also have negative effects such as headaches, heart palpitations, and stomachaches. Many people suffering from ADHD are seeking stimulants as an alternative to alleviate their symptoms. Some of these options include natural supplements, dietary changes, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
While some holistic methods may aid in treating ADHD symptoms, they might not be suitable for all people. These methods are most effective when combined with more traditional treatment methods, such as psychiatric therapy. Therapists, for instance, can teach patients how to manage their symptoms. They can also create an action plan.
Nonstimulant ADHD medication, such as atomoxetine (brand name Strattera discontinued in 2022) Guanfacine, atomoxetine, as well as viloxazine, are available to treat children with ADHD. Atomoxetine helps to decrease symptoms by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine, which is a neurotransmitter that controls behavior1. Similar to long-acting guanfacine, long-acting guan viloxazine are both beta agonists that were initially designed to treat high blood pressure. These drugs can help to calm the tics and improve sleep as well as decrease aggression. However they aren't as effective in boosting concentration.
They're less potent than stimulants, but can be beneficial for people who are unable to take stimulants or don't believe in their benefits. They're also less likely cause heart problems, which could be a serious issue for some children suffering from ADHD.
L-tyrosine is a different option to stimulants. This naturally occurring amino acid may enhance brain health through higher levels of epinephrine as well as dopamine. The supplement is readily available in health food stores however it is important to consult a doctor prior to taking it. In addition, melatonin can help with insomnia and sleep disorders that are related to ADHD. It is available as a sleep aid over-the-counter and has been proven to be effective in treating some individuals with ADHD. These natural ADHD treatments are worth a try for those suffering from symptoms but cannot or do not want to take prescription drugs.
Other treatment options
If your stimulant medication isn't effective or the side effects of your stimulant medication are too severe, your doctor might recommend a different drug. Non-stimulant medications have less potential for abuse or addiction but they aren't as effective at decreasing ADHD symptoms, especially for children who are young.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) was the first nonstimulant medication to be approved in treating ADHD and is often prescribed as an initial treatment. It works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine present in your brain, which aids in ensuring that nerves transmit messages more effectively between brain cells. It also reduces agitation sleep problems and fatigue however it can cause some adverse effects, such as a decrease in appetite, stomachaches and sleep problems. Atomoxetine can trigger suicidal thoughts in rare cases. Long-acting guanfacine (Intuniv) is a different option, and it increases the amount of norepinephrine that is present in your body, by blocking a mechanism that eliminates it. It is used to treat ADHD symptoms but it has also been found to aid in anxiety. Therefore, it can be prescribed to kids who have both disorders. It can raise blood pressure and heart rate which is why it is recommended that you consider having your child's blood tested.
Certain parents opt for nonstimulant medicines to minimize the adverse effects of stimulant medications including sleep issues, tics and issues with appetite. There are a variety of antidepressants prescribed for ADHD and are generally referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, also known as SNRIs. They can improve your mood and focus, and they can also assist in controlling impulses. These drugs can be used either by themselves or together with stimulants.
Behavioral therapy can assist you and your child to learn coping skills that will lessen the effects of ADHD symptoms. Ginkgo biloba and passionflower are both natural products that have been proven to reduce hyperactivity. However, it is important to consult with your physician prior to taking any supplements.
Complementary and alternative medicine is a term used to describe treatments that are outside the norm of Western medicine. These treatments include practices that focus on the mind like meditation, body-based therapies like massage, and natural products like nutritional supplements. Certain alternative treatments are being studied for their effectiveness in helping to manage ADHD however more research is needed before they're suggested as a main treatment option.