5 Lessons You Can Learn From Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD medication, as they are the most researched and have the fastest-acting effects. However, they're not suitable for everyone.
These medications boost the communication between brain regions and nerves to decrease ADHD symptoms. They can also cause side effects like a loss of appetite and changes in blood pressure or heart rate.
Stimulants
The most frequently used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are known for enhancing attention span, decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and increasing concentration and discipline. They also can increase blood pressure and heart rate which can be dangerous for some people. Stimulants are used for both medical and non-medical reasons, including recreational drugs as weight loss aids, and illegal drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates are the two most popular stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. Both are available in different forms like liquids, pills and patches for the skin. Amphetamines are the earliest and most well-known of these medications, with methylphenidates becoming more commonplace as the years go by. These medications work by altering the way that neurotransmitters receptors, brain chemicals are used to reduce ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulant medications fall into the category of first-line treatment, although some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line treatment or when combined with other treatments. They are a great option for providing rapid symptom relief and can be felt within a few hours of taking them. It can take up to several weeks for these medications to reach their full efficacy.
These drugs are available in immediate-release and long-release formulations. This flexibility allows for you to adjust your medication intake to fit your needs. The medications that you take immediately begin to take effect immediately after they're taken in and can be beneficial when you require immediate control of symptoms, such as before an important test, or during sporting events or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medications are formulated to release their active ingredients over a prolonged duration, typically throughout the day. This helps maintain a constant level of the medication in your body, which will increase compliance and overall adhesion to your treatment plan.
If you follow your doctor's instructions and avoid taking other drugs or substances that interact with these medications they are generally safe. They're primarily controlled substances because of their potential for abuse, therefore you will have to get a prescription from your doctor before starting the treatment.
The medications that aren't considered stimulants include the more recent atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and Guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both of these drugs are effective in preventing the reabsorption of norepinephrine an essential brain chemical. These medications are effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity however they don't enhance your concentration as effectively as stimulants.
Be aware that not all people respond to non-stimulant adhd medication So, always discuss your options with your doctor. Every medication has its own side effects and may affect people differently. It's essential to remain honest and open with your doctor about how you feel about the medication so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Discuss with medications for adhd www.iampsychiatry.uk if you plan to become pregnant or breastfeed in the future, as certain drugs can pass through breast milk. You should also talk to your doctor if you suffer from any other health constraints, such as heart conditions which could affect the effectiveness of these medications.