Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're looking for an ADHD medication that doesn't comprise stimulants, there are several options. They are often cheaper because they are generic.
Stimulants are medications that increase the neurotransmitters in the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine. They are used to treat certain children and adults with ADHD However, they can cause negative side effects or not work at all.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and children. It blocks the brain's chemical norepinephrine functioning. Although it is not as effective and effective as other ADHD drugs, it may still be helpful for some people.
One of the main benefits of using a non-stimulant ADHD drug like Strattera is that it has a lower potential for abuse and dependence than stimulants. Schedule II controlled substances are stimulant drugs. add medication adult are subject to strict federal regulations concerning how they're produced and prescribed.
Another benefit of a non-stimulant ADHD medication is that doctors can bring it into the pharmacy and order refills, rather than writing monthly prescriptions. This can spare many the hassle of having to make the trip to their doctor's office every month.
Additionally, Strattera has fewer side negative effects than other ADHD medications. This is due to the fact that it's not an stimulant. However, it could cause serious heart problems in some people with a history of heart disease or a heart defect.
In this regard, it's important to tell your doctor that you're suffering from any heart-related issues or you're taking other medications that affect your heart. To ensure that Strattera is working correctly your doctor will have to keep track of your blood pressure, heart rate and other health measures.
Talk to your doctor If you are suffering from liver issues like jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes, or skin. Your doctor will determine the right dosage for your needs by conducting tests in the lab to determine liver enzyme levels.
A small proportion of people who suffer from high blood pressure heart defects, or other health conditions have developed strokes and heart attacks when taking Strattera. These risks are higher when the dose is increased or earlier in treatment.
Patients who take Strattera might also develop a rare condition called "pheochromocytoma". These symptoms can be severe and your doctor must make sure you're not at risk.
Other adverse effects of Strattera include a decrease in appetite nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, constipation, weight loss headache, dry mouth and headache. These side effects typically disappear after just a few weeks of usage.
Atomoxetine
Strattera is the brand name of the non-stimulant ADHD medication Atomoxetine. It is a selective norepinephrine inhibitor (SNRI). It works in the brain to boost concentration and reduce restlessness in those with hyperactive and/or concentration or problems with impulse control. It may be used alone or in conjunction with other therapies for ADHD.
It was the very first non-stimulant medication to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment in adults . It is often prescribed off-label as a treatment for depression. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine synthesis and targets the frontocortical area that is where ADHD symptoms are developed. It also inhibits the serotonin transporter, (SERT) and N-methyl-d–aspartate receptors. These are both implicated in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have proven that atomoxetine can provide significant improvement in the symptoms of ADHD especially for children. In addition, it was associated with less adverse effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
However, atomoxetine might be associated with some changes in blood pressure and heart rate. The results of clinical trials have shown that 15 to 26% of children, adolescents and 32% of adults experience some measurable, but statistically insignificant increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
This is typically temporary and it will eventually return to the baseline. It is important to monitor these changes. It is vital to monitor blood pressure during initial treatment and throughout the course of therapy. A chart of the centile can be used to monitor blood pressure. Hypertension patients should have their blood pressure checked more frequently.
Side effects of atomoxetine also include confusion, dizziness and drowsiness. These side effects are usually temporary and go away when the medication is taken on a regular basis.
It can take several weeks before atomoxetine is able to provide its full benefits. If you don't see improvements after taking atomoxetine, consult your doctor. You might need to increase the dosage or take it more frequently.
Do not drive or operate machinery that is heavy while taking this medication as you could become drowsy and have trouble functioning. It is important to inform your doctor if you have or are planning to have children. It is also crucial to keep this medication and all other medicines out reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine, a non-stimulant adhd medication was approved by FDA in 2009. This medication affects the brain's nerve impulses to relax blood vessels. This medication reduces blood pressure and helps treat ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Clonidine isn't addictive and has no side effects, unlike other stimulant medications. It can also be used to treat sleep problems.
This medication is available as a tablet (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets should be consumed two times a day in the morning and at evening. It is possible to take this medication with or without food.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on how to use this medication. Be sure to follow instructions on the prescription label with care.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. This includes alcohol, certain prescription medications, and some prescription and over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Clonidine is not recommended to be used in conjunction with surgery or any other medical procedure. It is essential to not combine clonidine with any other medication that could slow down your heart rate, such as tranquilizers or opioids.
Your doctor might want to check your blood pressure prior to and after you take clonidine. This will enable your doctor to determine whether you require an additional test to ensure there aren't any underlying conditions that could be affected by this medication.
Clonidine can cause headaches, drowsiness mouth, and a decrease in heart rate. These adverse effects are typically noticed after the first or second week of treatment and are not considered to be life-threatening.
Consult your physician immediately if you experience any serious side effects from this medication. The side effects can include confusion, slower heart rate, and difficulty in urinating.
People who suffer from kidney problems or diabetes are at a higher risk of adverse effects resulting from the clonidine. This is because clonidine could decrease your body's ability remove blood sugar from your blood. If you have kidney disease, or diabetes your doctor may suggest taking a lower dose of Clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a medication that is not stimulant is used to treat ADHD. (ADHD). It helps to strengthen brain regions that control executive functions, which include working memory, impulse control, and attention. It is believed that it will strengthen connections between the prefrontal cortex and the other regions of the brain.
It is available in two forms: immediate-release tablets and as an extended-release tablet both of which are taken daily at bedtime. The dosage is determined by your weight, the effectiveness of any other medication you are taking.
The first dose is usually 1 mg per day but your doctor may alter the dosage, if necessary. It is recommended to take this medication frequently and follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also tell you about any possible side consequences you should be looking out for. These can include: dry mouth, weakness, or headache.
The side effects usually fade within a few days of starting the medication. If they don't notify your doctor immediately.
Guanfacine is not recommended if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. You should not use it if taking antihistamines or barbiturates or other sedatives.
It is not recommended to take this medication when your blood pressure is low or you have had heart attack or stroke in the past. They can cause serious side effects with the guanfacine.
This medication should not ever be used by children or teens. It may cause drowsiness and can make it difficult for you to concentrate or think clearly. They may also be more likely to be violent or exhibit tics.
Older adults should also use Guanfacine with caution. This is due to the fact that older adults are more susceptible to serious adverse effects such as falls, injuries and accidents. They also have a higher risk of developing serious side effects from guanfacine since it is more difficult to eliminate it from their bodies.
Guanfacine's drowsiness may make it harder to drive or operate machinery. You should not drive or engage in any other activity that requires you to be alert until you're sure that it doesn't affect your health.