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ADHD Medications – Stimulant Or Non Stimulant? For many people, stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD. However, for some people, they cause side effects or don't help. Some doctors prescribe stimulants along with non-stimulant ADHD medications. These include medicines that treat high blood-pressure, such as clonidine or guanfacine (Tenex). They also include other medications which help in promoting wakefulness. Benefits Stimulants are the first medication doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They work by increasing the communication between brain nerves. These medications increase levels of neurotransmitters, also known as chemical messengers like dopamine and norepinephrine. This can improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs come in various forms however they all are classified into two categories amphetamines and methylphenidates. They are controlled substances because of their potential abuse. The dosage, distribution, and use of these medications are strictly controlled. Doctors can prescribe a combination medication which includes stimulants and nonstimulants. This could be because a stimulant is not working well enough, due to side effects that are too severe, or because the person suffers from a mental health issue which needs to be treated. Combination treatments are commonplace for both adults and children. Viloxazine, Guanfacine, and Atomoxetine are medications that are not stimulants. They are generally well-tolerated and don't pose the same danger of abuse or addiction that stimulants do. They can take longer to get started and they aren't as long-lasting as stimulants do, however they're often effective in treating symptoms of ADHD. Most people who take nonstimulant ADHD medications experience moderate to minor side effects. They can experience stomach upset, headaches and insomnia. Some people may struggle to stay awake while taking these medications however this is likely to be less of a problem for children than adults. Speak to your doctor if you or your child is contemplating taking medication for ADHD. They'll explain what medication is available along with the advantages and risks of each, and how to get started. They'll also help you choose the right dosage and medication that is most suitable for you. It could take a few attempts to find the right medication and dosage. The aim is to manage your ADHD symptoms with the lowest number of side negative effects. Once you've found a suitable medication, it is best to stick with it. If you stop taking it your symptoms will recur. The majority of people with ADHD have to take these medications throughout 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 increases concentration and focus, and reduces hyperactivity and impulse control. It is the first form that doctors prescribe for ADHD. However, it doesn't work for everyone and may cause side effects that are intolerable. Non-stimulant drugs, like Strattera (atomoxetine) and Intuniv (guanfacine) are FDA-approved for treating ADHD in adults. They reduce symptoms by directly affecting the prefrontal cortex of the brain, resulting in an euphoric effect. They are often used as an adjunct to stimulant medication or if you aren't able to respond well to stimulants. Both atomoxetine and Guanfacine belong in the alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists class of medications that is, they work by blocking receptors that send dopamine to other cells. This allows other chemicals within the brain, like norepinephrine, to reach the brain and create the effect of calming, which enhances attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. The methylphenidate and amphetamine and various other classes of ADHD drugs are effective in alleviating or eliminating symptoms associated with ADHD. However they can also be misused and addictive, leading to overdose. These drugs are classified as controlled substances and have “boxed” warnings that warn patients of the risks. These drugs are also subject to shortages. Short-acting stimulants start to work within 30 minutes and last for between 3 and 4 hours. They can be taken up to three times per day. Long-acting stimulants and intermediate ones take longer to work however they can provide symptom relief for between 8 and 16 hours. These stimulants can be used daily if you find it difficult to remember to take your medication every day at the same time. When the medication wears off, certain patients suffer from a rebound effect. This means that their symptoms will return to previous levels. This can result in temporary fatigue, a negative attitude and intense hunger. This can be avoided by changing the dose, when it is taken, or the type of medication. If you're experiencing this problem consult your physician about the best way to make changes to your medication. Side effects Stimulant ADHD medication increases dopamine levels in brain cells, which promotes concentration and decreases impulse-driven behavior. They may also improve the memory and reduce aggression. Medications used for this purpose include Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) and Ritalin (methylphenidate). These drugs are typically given in capsule form, but some children can take them in drops or chewable tablets. Stimulants have the potential to cause side effects, including dry mouth, reduced appetite, and trouble sleeping. In some instances, side effects are minor and disappear once the medication wears away. In other cases, they can be serious and require medical attention. Non-stimulant medications help manage ADHD symptoms by targeting neurotransmitters inside the brain. They may also carry an lower risk of addiction or dependence than stimulants. Common side effects of these medications include drowsiness, loss of appetite and dizziness. To reduce the risk of drowsiness, take the medication earlier in your day, eat breakfast before the medication begins to work and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages. Many people respond better to extended release drugs. These formulations build up slowly within the body and decrease the chance of being absorbed too quickly and causing symptoms to get worse. They can also reduce the need to take the medication on a regular basis, especially when your child or you struggles to keep the count of multiple pill bottles. Most adults and children who are taking medication to treat ADHD will experience some side effects. These side effects can be managed by monitoring the reactions of your child or yourself, adjusting the dosage and taking the medication as prescribed. If you or your child suffers unpleasant or dangerous side effects, talk to a mental health professional about the possibility of switching to a different type of medication. Sometimes, it takes a while to determine the appropriate medication for someone 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 It's important to remember that ADHD medication can help manage symptoms, but it is not an effective cure. Your doctor may alter the dosage to help control your symptoms while minimizing any adverse effects. ADHD treatment plans typically consist of therapy, medication as well as support from family members and teachers. Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD drugs. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals that increase attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. The side effects include weight loss as well as sleeplessness or sleeping, stomachaches and headaches, jitteriness, and an increase in heart rate. It may take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and dosage for your or your child's requirements. It can take a few weeks or months for the benefits of a drug to become apparent. During this period, it is important to follow the doctor's prescriptions and report any side effects. While stimulants are beneficial due to being fast-acting, they can be more susceptible to abuse and dependence. This is the reason why many stay clear of them, especially youngsters and young adults. Non-stimulant drugs are just as effective and are better for people who are unable to tolerate the adverse effects of stimulants. There are many different kinds of non-stimulant drugs, including atomoxetine (Strattera), dextroamphetamine (Ritalin), and Guanfacine (Concerta). A number of these medications have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat various conditions, but are also used “off-label” to treat ADHD. linked webpage found that long-term use of ADHD medications is associated with an increased risk of CVD. The risk increased with the amount of medication taken and was higher in both genders. The researchers suggest that people be closely monitored and receive regular health screenings, specifically for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. This is particularly true when there is an ancestral history of cardiovascular disease.