Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're searching for an ADHD medication that doesn't contain stimulants, you have a few choices. They are often cheaper because they're generic.
Stimulants are medications that increase the neurotransmitters in the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine. These medications are used to treat ADHD in children as well as adults. However, they could cause side effects or even not work at any time.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an anti-stimulant medication, is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It is a medication that blocks the action of a chemical in the brain called norepinephrine. It is not as effective as other ADHD drugs however, it can be useful for some people.
One of the primary benefits of using a non-stimulant ADHD medication like Strattera is that it has a lower risk for dependence and abuse than stimulants. Schedule II controlled substances are stimulant drugs. This means that they have strict federal regulations regarding how they're made and prescribed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication has another advantage doctors can contact the pharmacy to order refills instead of writing a new prescription every month. This can save many people from having to go to their doctor every month.
Strattera is also less likely to cause adverse effects than other ADHD medications. Because it is not a stimulant, this is one reason. However, it can cause serious heart issues in people who have a history of heart disease or a defect.
It's crucial to inform your doctor about any heart-related conditions you suffer from or if you're taking other medications that affect your heart. To ensure Strattera is working properly your doctor will have to keep track of your blood pressure, heart rate and other health indicators.
Also, you should talk to your doctor if you suffer from liver issues, such as jaundice or yellowing of the eyes or skin. Your doctor will determine the right dosage for you based on lab testing to determine liver enzyme levels.
Strattera has been associated with strokes and heart attacks in a small amount of people suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease or other health problems. These risks are greater when the dose is increased or earlier in treatment.
People who use Strattera could also be affected by a rare disease called "pheochromocytoma". These symptoms can be extremely severe so make sure to check with your doctor if you are at risk.
Strattera can cause nausea vomiting, stomach pains constipation, and weight loss. These effects typically go away after a few weeks.
Atomoxetine
The non-stimulant ADHD medication atomoxetine that is sold under the brand name Strattera is a selective reuptake of norepinephrine inhibitor (SNRI). It is a brain stimulant that works by increasing attention and reducing restlessness in people with hyperactive, concentration or impulse control issues. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with other treatments for ADHD.
It was the very first non-stimulant medication to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment in adults and is often prescribed off-label as a treatment for depression. It is an extremely selective inhibitor of norepinephrine reuptake that targets the fronto-cortical subsystem, the area where ADHD symptoms begin to manifest. It also inhibits serotonintransporter (SERT) and N-methyl D-aspartate receptors. These are involved in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have proven that atomoxetine has a significant effect in the symptoms of ADHD especially for children. In addition it has been associated with fewer side effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
However, atomoxetine can be linked to some changes in blood pressure and heart rate. The results of clinical trials have indicated that approximately 15-26 percent of children and teenagers, and 27 - 32% of adults, experience some measurable but not statistically significant, rises in heart rate or blood pressure.
In general, this rise is temporary and typically returns to baseline. The changes must be monitored. During initial treatment and during the course of therapy it is recommended that blood pressure be recorded regularly using the aid of a chart that shows the centile. Hypertension patients should be monitored for blood pressure more often.
Side effects of atomoxetine also include dizziness, confusion and tiredness. These effects are typically temporary and disappear when you use the medicine regularly.
It can take several weeks before atomoxetine gives its full benefits. Talk to your doctor in the event that you don't notice any improvement after taking atomoxetine. It may be necessary to increase your dose or take it more often than you normally.
Avoid driving or operating machinery that is heavy while taking this medication as you could become sleepy and have difficulty functioning. nhs adhd medication should inform your doctor if or are planning to have children. It is also important to keep this medication and all other medicines out of the reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is a non stimulant adhd medication that was approved by the FDA in 2009. Clonidine helps relax blood vessels by stimulating nerve impulses in the brain. This medication reduces blood pressure and helps treat ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and inattention.
Clonidine isn't addictive nor has no side effects, unlike other stimulant medications. It is also used to treat sleep disorders.
The medication is available in the form of tablets (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets are usually taken twice a day, in the morning and at bedtime. You can take this medication with or without food.
If you have any questions about how to take this medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Follow the instructions on the prescription label.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure. These include alcohol, prescription drugs, and some other over-the counter medications and supplements.
Clonidine is not a good choice while you are having surgery or other medical procedures. It is crucial to not combine clonidine and other medication that could slow your heart rate, for example tranquilizers or the use of narcotics.
Your doctor may check your blood pressure prior to and after you take clonidine. This will allow your doctor to decide if it is necessary to have an additional test to ensure that you do not have any other conditions that could be affected by this medication.
The most frequent adverse effects of clonidine include headache, drowsiness mouth, and a reduced heart rate. These side effects usually occur after the first dose, or over several weeks of treatment and aren't life-threatening.
Speak to your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects from this medication. The side effects can include confusion, slowing of heart rate, as well as difficulties in urinating.
Clonidine can cause side effects that are more likely to affect those with kidney or diabetes. This is because clonidine could decrease your body's ability remove blood sugar from the blood. Your doctor may recommend a lower dose of Clonidine if you have kidney disease or diabetes.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine, a non-stimulant medication is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It helps to strengthen brain areas that control executive functions. These include working memory, impulse control, and attention. It is believed to enhance connections between the prefrontal cortex as well as other areas of the brain.
It is available as an immediate-release tablet and as an extended-release tablet, both of which are taken daily at bedtime. The dosage is based upon your weight, the efficacy of the drug, and any other medications you may be taking.
The dosage for the daily initial dose is usually 1 mg. However, your physician can alter the dosage to meet your needs. It is best to take this medication regularly and follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you of any adverse effects you need to be aware of. This could include dry mouth, weakness or headache.
These side effects usually go away within a few days following beginning the medication. If they do not notify your doctor immediately.
Guanfacine should not be taken in case you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. You should not also use it if taking barbiturates, antihistamines, or any other sedatives.
It is not recommended to take this medication when your blood pressure is low or if you have suffered an attack or stroke in the past. These could cause serious adverse reactions when you are taking Guanfacine.
Children and teens should take this medication very cautiously. It can cause drowsiness, which can make it difficult to concentrate or think. They may also be more likely to have violent tics or tics.
Seniors should also use Guanfacine in a cautious manner. This is because older adults are more prone to serious side consequences such as falls injuries, and accidents. It can also be more difficult for them to eliminate guanfacine from their bodies, which can increase their chance of suffering from serious adverse side effects.
Guanfacine may make it more difficult to operate machinery due to fatigue. You should not operate machinery or drive any vehicle that requires you to be alert until you are certain that it will not impact you.