Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're looking for an ADHD medication that doesn't contain stimulants, you have a few choices. They're typically less expensive due to the fact that they're generic.
Stimulants are medications that increase the neurotransmitters in the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine. They're used to treat some adults and children with ADHD, but they can cause negative side effects or even not work at all.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is non-stimulant medicine is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It blocks the brain's chemical neurotransmitter norepinephrine from working. While it's not as effective and efficient as other ADHD medications, it can still be beneficial for certain people.
Strattera, an unstimulant ADHD drug, has the advantage of being less addictive and less dependent than stimulants. Stimulant drugs are Schedule II controlled substances, which means that they're subject to strict federal regulations regarding how they are made and prescribed, as well as how they are dispensed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication has another benefit: doctors can call the pharmacy to request refills instead of writing a new prescription every month. This can spare many the headache of having to make a a trip to their doctor's office each month.
Additionally, Strattera has fewer side adverse effects than other ADHD medications. This is partly because it's not a stimulant. It can cause serious problems for people who have had heart disease or other defects in the past.
It's essential to inform your doctor about any heart problems you have or if you are taking any other medications that affect your heart. To make sure that Strattera is working as it should your doctor will have to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate as well as other health measures.
Also, you should consult with your doctor if you have any liver issues like jaundice or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Your doctor can determine the best dosage for your needs by conducting tests in the lab to determine liver enzyme levels.
Strattera has been associated with strokes and heart attacks in a tiny percentage of people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or other health problems. The risk of developing these is greater when the dose is increased or earlier in treatment.
Additionally, a rare disorder known as pheochromocytoma is a possibility for people who take Strattera. These symptoms can be extremely severe, so your doctor must ensure that you are not at risk.
Strattera can also cause nausea vomiting, stomach pains constipation and weight loss. These effects typically go away after some time.
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 decreasing anxiety in individuals with hyperactivity and/or impulsive issues. It can be used on its own or in combination with other treatments for ADHD.
It was the first non-stimulant drug to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment in adults and is frequently prescribed off-label for treatment for depression. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine synthesis and targets the frontocortical area in which ADHD symptoms develop. It also blocks the serotonin transporter (SERT), and N-methyl-d–aspartate receptors. Both are involved in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have proven that atomoxetine has a substantial effect on ADHD symptoms, particularly in children. Additionally it was associated with less side effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
However, atomoxetine can be linked with changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Clinical trials have demonstrated that between 15 and 26% of children, adolescents and 32% of adults experience some tangible, but statistically insignificant, increases in blood pressure and heart rate.
In general, this increase is temporary and generally returns to baseline. The changes must be monitored. When starting treatment and during the course of therapy it is recommended that blood pressure be continuously monitored with the aid of a centile chart. People with a history hypertension should have their blood pressure checked more frequently.
The side effects of atomoxetine include confusion, dizziness and sleepiness. These side effects are usually temporary and go away when the medication is used regularly.
It could take several weeks before atomoxetine provides its full benefits. Consult your physician in the event that you don't notice any improvement after taking atomoxetine. You may need to increase your dose or take it more frequently.
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking this medication because you could become sleepy and have difficulty functioning. If you are pregnant or plan to have one, tell your doctor. It is important to keep all medicines away from the 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 nerve impulses in your brain. This reduces blood pressure and assists in treating ADHD symptoms, including hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Clonidine does not cause addiction or has no adverse effects, unlike other stimulant drugs. It is also used to treat sleep disorders.
This medication is available in the form of tablets (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets should be taken two times daily in the morning and at the night. You can take this medication with or without food.
Ask your physician or pharmacist for advice on how to take this medication. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure. This includes alcohol, certain prescription drugs, and a few over-the-counter medications and supplements.
It is not recommended to use clonidine when you are undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. Also, avoid combining it with other medications which can slow your heart rate, such as narcotics or tranquilizers.
Your doctor might ask you to test your blood pressure before and during treatment with clonidine. This will allow your doctor to determine if you need an additional test to ensure that you don't have any existing conditions that could be affected by this medication.
The most commonly reported adverse effects of clonidine include headache, drowsiness mouth, and a slower heart rate. These adverse effects are typically felt after the first or second week of treatment, and are not considered life-threatening.
However, if you experience serious side effects while using this medication, talk with your doctor right away. These side effects can include a slower heart rate, confusion, or difficulty in urinating.
People who suffer from kidney problems or diabetes could be at greater risk of side effects from Clonidine. This is because clonidine could hinder your body's ability to remove blood sugar from your blood. If you suffer from diabetes or kidney disease or diabetes, your doctor may suggest taking a lower dose of Clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a medication that is not stimulant, is used to treat the condition known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by enhancing brain regions that regulate executive functions, which include working memory as well as impulse control and attention. It is believed to improve 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 administered each night before bed. The dosage is determined by your weight, effectiveness of any other medications you may be on.
The dose daily for the initial dose is usually 1 mg. However, your doctor may adjust the dosage to suit your requirements. It is recommended to take this medication on a regular basis and follow the dosage guidelines carefully.
Your doctor will also tell you about any side effects that you should watch for. medication for adhd in adults may include dry mouth headaches, weakness, or dry mouth.
These side effects usually become better within a few days of starting the medication. If they persist, consult your doctor right away.
Guanfacine should not be taken if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. It should not be taken if you are on antihistamines, barbiturates, or other sedatives.
In addition you should avoid taking this medication if you suffer from low blood pressure or an existing history of heart disease or stroke. These can result in severe side effects when you take the drug guanfacine.
This medication should not be taken by children or teens. It can cause drowsiness , which can make it difficult for you to concentrate or think clearly. They could also be more likely to experience antics or be violent.
Guanfacine is to be used with caution for older adults. This is because they are more vulnerable to serious side effects , such as falls, injuries and accidents. They also have a greater chance of developing serious side consequences from guanfacine as it is more difficult to eliminate it from their bodies.
Guanfacine can make it more difficult to drive or operate machinery due fatigue. You should not drive or do anything that requires your attention until you are sure that it doesn't impact you.