Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
There are many options to choose from if you're trying for an ADHD medication that isn't containing stimulants. Some of them are available in generic form, which means they're typically less expensive.
Stimulants are drugs that raise the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. They are used to treat ADHD in children as well as adults. However, they can cause side effects or even not work at all times.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication that is that is used to treat hyperactivity disorder in adults as well as children. It blocks the brain's chemical neurotransmitter norepinephrine from functioning. It is not as efficient as other ADHD treatments but it can be beneficial for certain 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. This means that they have strict federal rules regarding how they're made and prescribed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication has another advantage that doctors can call the pharmacy to request refills rather than prescribing a new prescription each month. This can help many people avoid the hassle of having to make the trip to their doctor's office every month.
In addition, Strattera has fewer side effects than other ADHD medications. Because it is not a stimulant, this is partly why. It could cause serious issues for those who have had heart disease or other issues in the past.
It's essential to inform your doctor about any heart conditions you have or if you're taking any other medications that affect the heart. They'll need to check your blood pressure, heart rate, and other health measurements while you're using Strattera to ensure it's working correctly.
Consult your physician If you're suffering from liver problems like jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes or skin. Tests to determine the levels of liver enzymes can help your doctor determine the appropriate dosage for you.
Strattera has been associated with strokes and heart attacks in a tiny amount of people suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, or other health problems. These risks are higher when the dose is increased or earlier in treatment.
Patients who use Strattera might also develop a rare condition called "pheochromocytoma". The symptoms can be quite severe so be sure to speak with your doctor if you are at risk.
Other adverse effects of Strattera include a decrease in appetite, nausea vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, weight loss headache and dry mouth. These effects typically go away after several weeks.
Atomoxetine
Strattera is the brand name of the non-stimulant ADHD medication Atomoxetine. It is a selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor (SNRI). It is a brain stimulant that works by increasing focus and reducing restlessness in people with hyperactive and/or impulsive issues. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other treatments for ADHD.
It was the very first non-stimulant medication to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment for adults. It is often prescribed off-label as a treatment for depression. It is an inhibitor selective of norepinephrine synthesis and targets the frontocortical system that is where ADHD symptoms develop. It also blocks serotonin transporter (SERT) and N-methyl-do-aspartate receptors, both of which are implicated in ADHD symptoms.
prescribe medication have demonstrated that atomoxetine exerts a significant impact on ADHD symptoms, particularly in children. It also had fewer side effects that immediate-release methylphenidate.
Some changes in heart rate or blood pressure could be caused by atomoxetine. The results of clinical trials have shown that around 15 to 26% of children, adolescents and 32% of adults experience some noticeable, but statistically unimportant, increases in blood pressure and heart rate.
In general, the increase is temporary and often returns to baseline. These changes should be monitored. During initial treatment and during the course of therapy blood pressure must be recorded regularly using the aid of a centile chart. Patients with hypertension should have their blood pressure checked more frequently.
Other side effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion, and sleepiness. These effects are typically temporary and disappear when you take the medication on a regular basis.
It may take a few weeks before atomoxetine provides its full benefits. Talk to your doctor If you don't experience any improvement after taking atomoxetine. It may be necessary to increase your dosage or take it more often than usual.
Do not operate or drive machines that are heavy while you take this medication in case you become drowsy and have trouble functioning. If you are pregnant or planning to have one, tell your doctor. It is also essential to keep this medication and all other medicines out of the reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine, a non-stimulant adhd medication, was approved by FDA in 2009. The medication works by altering the brain's nerve impulses to relax blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure and aids in treating ADHD symptoms, including hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
Contrary to the traditional stimulant medications, clonidine doesn't have any adverse effects or addictive properties. It can also be used to treat sleep problems.
You can purchase this medication in the form of Catapres tablet, or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets should be taken twice daily: in the morning and at the night. The medication can be taken without or with food.
If you have any questions about the best way to take this medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Make sure you follow the directions on the prescription label carefully.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure. These include alcohol, prescription drugs, and certain prescription and over-the-counter medication.
You should not use clonidine during surgery or other medical procedures. You should also avoid combining it with other medicines that can reduce your heart rate, for example, narcotics or tranquilizers.
Your doctor may want to check your blood pressure prior to and after you take clonidine. This will allow your doctor to determine if you should undergo an additional test to make sure that you don't have any underlying conditions that would be affected by this medication.
The most frequent adverse effects of clonidine include headache, drowsiness mouth, and a reduced heart rate. These effects are usually experienced after the first or second week of treatment and aren't considered life-threatening.
Speak to your doctor right away when you notice any serious side effects as a result of this medication. Some of the side effects include confusion, slower heart rate, and difficulty urinating.
Clonidine can cause adverse effects that are more likely to affect people with kidney or diabetes. Clonidine can hinder your body's ability remove blood sugar from your blood. Your doctor may recommend a lower dose of Clonidine if you have kidney disease or diabetes.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by strengthening brain areas that control executive functions. This includes working memory, impulse control, and attention. It is believed to improve connections between the prefrontal cortex and other parts of the brain.
It's available in the form of an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. Both tablets are taken at bedtime. The dosage is based on your weight, the efficacy of the drug, as well as any other medications you may be taking.
The daily dose for the first dose is typically 1 mg. However, your physician can alter the dosage to meet your needs. It is best to take this medication on a regular basis and follow the dosage guidelines carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you about any side effects that you should be aware of. These could include dry mouth, weakness, or headache.
These side effects usually become better within the first few days after beginning the medication. If they continue to bother you, consult your doctor right away.
Guanfacine should not be taken when you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. It is also not recommended to take it if taking antihistamines, barbiturates, or any other sedatives.
You should not take this medication in the event that your blood pressure is low or you have suffered an attack or stroke in the past. These can lead to severe side effects when taking the drug guanfacine.
Children and teens should take this medication very cautiously. It can cause drowsiness which makes it difficult to concentrate or think. They are also more likely to become violent or have symptoms of tics.
Guanfacine must be used with caution by older adults. This is because older adults are more vulnerable to serious adverse effects , such as falls, injuries, and accidents. They also have a greater risk of developing serious side effects from guanfacine because it is more difficult to eliminate it from their bodies.
The drowsiness associated with guanfacine could make it more difficult to drive or operate machinery. You should not drive or engage in any other activity that requires alertness until you're sure it doesn't affect your health.