Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're looking for an ADHD medication that doesn't comprise stimulants, there are a few choices. They tend to be less expensive because they're generic.
Stimulants are medicines that increase brain levels of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine. They're used to treat kids and adults who suffer from ADHD However, they can cause undesirable side effects or even not work at all.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication that is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults as well as children. It blocks the brain's chemical, norepinephrine, from working. It is not as effective as other ADHD drugs but it can be useful for some people.
One of the major advantages of using a non-stimulant ADHD drug such as Strattera is that it is less prone for abuse and dependence than stimulants. Stimulant medications are Schedule II controlled substances, which means they are subject to strict federal regulations on how they're made, prescribed and dispensed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication has another advantage that doctors can call the pharmacy to request refills instead of prescribing a new prescription each month. This could spare many from having to go to their doctor every month.
Strattera is also less likely to cause side effects than other ADHD medications. Since it's not a stimulant. This is one reason. It could cause serious issues for those who have had heart disease or other heart problems in the past.
It is important to inform your doctor if you have any heart problems you have or if you're taking any other medications that affect your heart. To make sure that Strattera is working correctly your doctor will have to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and other health indicators.
Talk to your doctor If you're suffering from liver problems such as jaundice, yellowing of the skin or eyes. Your doctor can determine the right dosage for your needs by conducting laboratory tests to measure liver enzyme levels.
A small proportion of people with high blood pressure heart disease or other health issues have developed strokes and heart attacks while taking Strattera. The risk of developing these conditions is higher when treatment is first initiated and also when the dose is changed.
Similarly, a rare condition called pheochromocytoma could be found in people who are taking Strattera. These symptoms can be very severe, so your doctor will need to 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 and dry mouth. These side effects typically disappear after several weeks.
Atomoxetine
The non stimulant ADHD medication atomoxetine sold under the brand name Strattera is a selective reuptake of norepinephrine inhibitor (SNRI). It affects the brain by increasing attention and reducing anxiety in those with hyperactive, concentration or impulse control issues. It can be used by itself 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 and is frequently used off-label as a treatment for depression. It is an extremely selective inhibitor of norepinephrine reuptake . It targets the fronto-cortical system, in which ADHD symptoms manifest. It also inhibits serotonintransporter (SERT) and N-methyl D-aspartate receptors. These are involved in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that atomoxetine has a significant effect on ADHD symptoms, especially for children. Additionally, it was associated with less side effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
Some changes in blood pressure or heart rate could be caused by atomoxetine. Data from clinical studies have shown that around 15 - 26% of children and adolescents and 27 - 32% of adults, experience some measurable however not statistically significant, rises in blood pressure or heart rate.
In general, this rise is transient and usually reverts to the baseline. It is vital to track the changes. It is vital to monitor blood pressure at the beginning of treatment as well as throughout the course of treatment. A centile chart is a good way to keep track of blood pressure. Hypertension patients should be checked for blood pressure more frequently.
The effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion and drowsiness. These effects are typically temporary and will disappear once the medication is used regularly.
It is important to keep in mind that it can take a few weeks for atomoxetine's its full effects. If you don't see improvement after taking atomoxetine talk with your doctor. You might need to increase the dose or take it more frequently.
You should not drive or operate any heavy equipment during the time you take this medication. You might feel drowsy or experience difficulty functioning. If you are expecting or planning to have a baby, tell your doctor. It is crucial to keep all medications out of reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is an anti-stimulant medication for adhd has been approved by FDA in 2009. Clonidine relaxes blood vessels by stimulating nerve impulses in the brain. This reduces blood pressure and helps to treat ADHD symptoms, such as hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Unlike traditional stimulant medications, clonidine isn't associated with any adverse effects or addictive properties. It is also used to treat sleep difficulties.
This medication is available in the form of tablets (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets should be consumed two times daily: in the morning and at night. It is possible to take this medication with or without food.
If you have questions about the best way to take this medication, speak to your physician or pharmacist. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. These include alcohol, some prescription medications, and some prescription and over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Clonidine should not be used during surgery or any other medical procedure. Also, avoid combining it with other medicines that can slow your heart rate, like tranquilizers or narcotics.
Your doctor may check your blood pressure before and after you take clonidine. This will allow your doctor to decide if you need to have an additional test to make sure that you don't have any existing conditions that would be affected by this medication.
The most common side effects of clonidine are headache, drowsiness mouth, and a lower heart rate. These adverse effects usually occur after the first dose, or over several weeks of treatment . They aren't life-threatening.
Talk to your doctor immediately when you notice any serious side effects as a result of this medication. These side effects can include slowed heart rate, confusion, or difficulty in urinating.
People suffering from kidney issues or diabetes are more susceptible to side effects from clonidine. Clonidine can hinder your body's ability to remove blood sugar from your blood. If you suffer from kidney disease, or diabetes, your doctor may recommend you take a smaller dose of clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non stimulant medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by strengthening the areas of the brain that regulate executive functions. This includes working memory, impulse control and attention. It is believed to strengthen connections between the prefrontal cortex of the brain and the other parts of the brain.
It is available in two forms: immediate-release tablets and as an extended-release tablet both of which are administered once a day at bedtime. The dosage is determined by your weight, the effectiveness of the medication, as well as any other medications you might be taking.
The initial dose is typically 1 mg per day, but your doctor may adjust the dosage if needed. It is crucial to take this medication on a regular basis and to follow the instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you of any adverse effects you need to be aware of. These may include dry mouth, weakness, or headaches.
These side effects typically get better within the first few days after beginning the medication. If they do not make a difference, you should consult your doctor right away.
Guanfacine should not be taken in the event of an allergy to it or any of the ingredients. It is also not recommended to use it if you are taking barbiturates, antihistamines, or other sedatives.
Additionally it is advised not to take this medication if you have low blood pressure or a history of stroke or heart disease. These can result in severe side effects when you take the drug guanfacine.
source web page should not be taken by teens or children. It can cause drowsiness, which can make it difficult to focus or think. Additionally, they are more likely to be violent or exhibit symptoms of tics.
Older adults should also use Guanfacine with extreme caution. This is because they are more vulnerable to serious side effects such as falls, injuries and accidents. They also have a higher risk of developing serious side effects from guanfacine due to the fact that it is more difficult to eliminate it from their bodies.
Guanfacine may make it more difficult to drive or operate machinery because of the drowsiness. It is best not to engage in any activity that requires alertness until you are sure it does not affect you.