Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
There are plenty of options available if you're looking for an ADHD medication that doesn’t contain stimulants. Certain of them are offered in generic form, which means they're usually less expensive.
Stimulants are drugs that raise the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in some children and adults. However, they could have side effects or not work at any time.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant drug that is used to treat hyperactivity disorder in adults as well as children. It works by blocking the action of a chemical in the brain that is known as norepinephrine. While it's not as effective and efficient as other ADHD drugs, it may still be beneficial to some people.
Strattera, an unstimulant ADHD drug has the advantage of being less addictive and dependent than stimulants. Schedule II controlled substances are stimulant medications. This means that they have strict federal regulations about how they're made and prescribed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication has another benefit that doctors can call the pharmacy to order refills, instead of prescribing a new prescription each month. This can save many people the stress of making the trip to their doctor's office every month.
Strattera is also less likely to cause adverse effects than other ADHD medications. Because it's not a stimulant drug, this is one reason. However, it could cause serious heart problems in patients with a history of heart disease or a defect.
It is important to inform your doctor of any heart issues you suffer from or if you are taking any other medications that affect your heart. They'll need to check your heart rate, blood pressure as well as other health-related measurements while you're using Strattera to ensure that it's working properly.
Speak to your doctor for liver problems such as jaundice, yellowing of the eyes, or skin. adhd medication adults to measure liver enzyme levels can help your doctor determine the best dosage for you.
Strattera has been associated with strokes and heart attacks in a small number of people who have high blood pressure, heart disease or other health problems. These risks could be greater at the beginning of treatment and after the dose is changed.
Patients who take Strattera may also develop a rare disorder called "pheochromocytoma". These symptoms can be extremely severe so be sure to consult with your physician if are at risk.
Strattera can also cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, constipation and weight loss. These side effects typically go away with several weeks of use.
Atomoxetine
Strattera is the brand name for the non-stimulant ADHD medication Atomoxetine. It is a selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor (SNRI). It works in the brain to increase the concentration of people and reduce restlessness in those who suffer from hyperactivity, concentration, or issues with impulse control. It can be utilized in conjunction with other ADHD treatments.
It was the first non-stimulant medicine to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment in adults and is frequently prescribed off-label for treatment for depression. It is an extremely selective inhibitor of norepinephrine reuptake that targets the fronto-cortical subsystem, in which ADHD symptoms are developed. It also inhibits serotonin transporter (SERT) and N-methyl D-aspartate receptors. These are implicated in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have proven that atomoxetine has a significant effect in the symptoms of ADHD especially in children. In addition, it was associated with fewer adverse reactions than immediate-release methylphenidate.
However, atomoxetine can be associated with changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Data from clinical studies have revealed that about 15-26 percent of adolescents and children, and 27 - 32 percent of adults suffer some noticeable but not statistically significant, increases in heart rate or blood pressure.
In general, this rise is temporary and generally returns to baseline. It is essential to be aware of the changes. When starting treatment and during the course of treatment blood pressure must be continuously monitored with the aid of a chart that shows the centile. Hypertension patients should be checked for blood pressure more often.
The effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion and sleepiness. These effects are typically temporary and go away when you use the medication regularly.
It is important to know that it could take a few weeks for atomoxetine's the full benefit. If you do not see improvements after taking atomoxetine, consult your doctor. You may need to increase your dosage or take it more frequently.
You should not operate any heavy equipment when you are taking this medicine. You might feel sleepy or have difficulty performing. If you are pregnant or plan to have one, consult your doctor. It is also important to keep this and all other medicines out of reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is a non stimulant adhd medication that was approved by the FDA in 2009. Clonidine relaxes blood vessels by stimulating neurons in your brain. This medication lowers blood pressure and helps treat ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Contrary to the traditional stimulant medications, clonidine doesn't have any adverse effects or addictive properties. It is also utilized to treat sleep problems.
The medication is available in the form of tablets (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). Tablets should be taken twice a day: 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, 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.
You should not use clonidine when you are undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. Also, avoid combining it with other medications which can slow your heart rate, like tranquilizers or narcotics.
Your doctor might ask you to check your blood pressure before and during treatment with clonidine. This will enable your doctor to determine if you're in need of an additional test to ensure you don't have any underlying conditions that could be affected by this medication.
The most common adverse effects of clonidine include headache, drowsiness and dry mouth, and a reduced heart rate. These adverse effects usually occur after the first dose or several weeks after treatment and are not life-threatening.
However, if you experience any serious adverse reactions while taking this medication, talk with your doctor right away. Side effects include confusion, slower heart rate, and difficulties in urinating.
Patients with kidney problems or diabetes may be at greater risk of adverse effects from the clonidine. This is because clonidine may affect your body's ability remove blood sugar from the blood. If you have kidney disease, or diabetes or diabetes, your doctor may suggest you take a lower dose of clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non-stimulant drug is used to treat ADHD. (ADHD). It works by enhancing brain regions that regulate executive functions, which include working memory impulse control, working memory, and attention. It is thought to strengthen connections between the prefrontal cortex and other parts of the brain.
It is available in two forms: an immediate-release tablet as well as an extended-release tablet, both of which are taken each night before bed. The dosage is determined by your weight, the effectiveness of any other medications you might be taking.
The initial dose is typically 1 mg per day but your doctor may adjust the dosage if necessary. It is important to take this medication regularly and to follow the 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 headaches.
These side effects usually go away within a few days following taking the medication. If they are still present, you should consult your doctor right away.
Guanfacine shouldn't be taken when you are allergic to it or any of the ingredients. It should not be used if you are on antihistamines, barbiturates or other sedatives.
Additionally, you should not take this medication if your condition is low blood pressure or an antecedent history of heart disease or stroke. These could cause serious adverse reactions when you are taking Guanfacine.
Teens and children should take this medication with care. It may cause drowsiness and can make it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. They also can be more likely to become violent or display antics.
Guanfacine is to be used with caution for older adults. This is because they are more likely to experience serious side effects, such as accidents, falls or injuries. It is also more difficult for them to clear Guanfacine out of their bodies, which increases their chance of suffering from serious adverse side effects.
Guanfacine can make it more difficult to drive or operate machinery because of the fatigue. You should not conduct any driving or other activity that requires alertness until you're sure that it doesn't affect your mental state.