ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD treatment, because they're the most studied and have the fastest-acting effects. However, they're not suitable for everyone.
These drugs increase the communication between nerves and the regions of the brain to reduce symptoms of ADHD. They can also have negative side effects, such as a loss of appetite and changes in heart rate or blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular drugs used to treat ADHD. They're known for enhancing the quality of attention span as well as reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, and increasing concentration and self-discipline. They also have a reputation for increasing blood pressure and heart rate which could be harmful for some people. The use of stimulants is for medical and non-medical reasons including recreational drugs, weight loss aids and illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are the two main stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. Both are available in different forms, including liquids, pills and patches for the skin. Amphetamines are among the oldest and most popular of these medications, with methylphenidates being prescribed more frequently as the years go by. These medications work by altering the way that neurotransmitters receptors, as well as other brain chemicals are utilized to reduce ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulant medicines fall under the first-line treatment category, however, some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line treatment or in conjunction with other treatments. Stimulants have the advantage of giving relief for symptoms quickly that can be felt within a few hours of taking them. However, it could take several weeks of consistent use for these drugs to be effective.
They come in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. This flexibility lets you to alter the dosage of your medication to suit your needs. The immediate-release drugs begin working immediately after you swallow them. This is an ideal option in situations where you need to manage symptoms quickly, like when you're taking a test or you're participating in a sporting event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medication is formulated to release active ingredients over a longer period of time, typically throughout the day. This allows you to keep an even level of medication in your system, which will help improve your compliance and overall adherence.
If you follow the prescriptions of your doctor and refrain from taking any other drugs or substances that are in a relationship with these medications, they are generally safe. They're mostly controlled substances because of their potential for abuse, so you'll need an appointment with your doctor before starting these medications.
medication for adhd that is sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree, as well as guanfacine, are not stimulants. Both of these drugs work by blocking the reabsorption of norepinephrine, an essential brain chemical. These medications are effective in reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity however they don't help your concentration as much as stimulants.
Always discuss your options with a physician. Every medication comes with its own side effects that affect people differently. It's important to be open and honest about your feelings regarding the medication with your doctor so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Talk to your doctor before you become pregnant or start breastfeeding as certain drugs may be absorbed through breast milk. You should also talk to your doctor if you suffer from any other health issues, such as heart conditions that could affect how well these medications work.