Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're in search of an ADHD medication that doesn't contain stimulants, you have a few choices. Certain of them are offered in generic form, which means they're often less expensive.
Stimulants are substances that boost the neurotransmitters in the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine. They are used to treat ADHD in some children and adults. However, they could cause adverse reactions or not work at all times.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine), non-stimulant medicine is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It is a medication that blocks the action of a substance in the brain that is known as norepinephrine. It is not as effective as other ADHD medication however it could be beneficial for certain people.
Strattera, a non-stimulant ADHD drug, has the advantage of being less addictive and dependent than stimulants. The stimulant medications are Schedule II controlled substances, that means they're subject to strict federal regulations regarding how they're made and prescribed, as well as how they are dispensed.
Another benefit of a non stimulant ADHD medication is that doctors can simply call it into the pharmacy and ask for refills instead of writing a new prescription each month. This can spare many people from having to travel to their doctor every month.
Additionally, Strattera has fewer side effects than other ADHD medications. Because it is not a stimulant drug, this is partly why. However, it could cause serious heart problems in some patients with a history of heart disease or defect.
It's crucial to inform your doctor about any heart problems you have or if you take any other medications that affect your heart. To ensure that Strattera is working as it should the doctor will need to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and other health measures.
Also, you should talk with your doctor if have any liver problems like jaundice or yellowing of the eyes or skin. Tests to determine liver enzyme levels can help your doctor determine the best dosage for you.
A small proportion of people with high blood pressure heart defects, or other health conditions have suffered heart attacks while taking Strattera. These risks are more likely early in treatment and when the dose is adjusted.
Patients who take Strattera could also be affected by a rare disease called "pheochromocytoma". The symptoms can be quite severe, so your doctor must confirm that you're not at risk.
Other adverse effects of Strattera include a decrease in appetite nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, constipation, weight loss dry mouth and headache. These side effects typically disappear after several weeks.
Atomoxetine
Strattera is the brand name for the non-stimulant ADHD medication Atomoxetine. It is a selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor (SNRI). It affects the brain by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in people with hyperactive, concentration or impulse control issues. It can be used in isolation or in combination with other treatments for ADHD.
It was FDA approved as an ADHD medication in adults. It is often prescribed off-label for treating depression. It is a highly selective inhibitor of norepinephrine and reuptake that targets the frontocortical area, the area where ADHD symptoms manifest. It also blocks serotonin transporter (SERT) and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors, which are involved in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that atomoxetine exerts a significant impact on ADHD symptoms, especially in children. Additionally it was associated with less adverse effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
However, atomoxetine can be linked with changes in blood pressure and heart rate. 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, rises in blood pressure or heart rate.
The increase is usually temporary and will return to the baseline. The changes in blood pressure should be tracked. It is essential to keep track of blood pressure during initial treatment as well as throughout the course of treatment. A chart of the percentile can be used to record blood pressure. People with a history hypertension should be monitored for blood pressure more frequently.
The side effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion, and sleepiness. These side effects are usually temporary and go away when the medication is used regularly.
It is important to know that it could take a few weeks for atomoxetine's full benefits. If you don't notice improvements after taking atomoxetine, consult your doctor. You may need to increase the dose or take it more frequently.
You should not drive or operate any heavy equipment while you are taking this medicine. You may feel tired or experience difficulty functioning. If you are expecting or planning to have a baby, tell your doctor. It is important to keep this medication and all other medicines out reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine, an anti-stimulant medication for adhd has been approved by FDA in 2009. The medication works by altering nerve impulses in the brain to relax blood vessels. This medication reduces blood pressure and helps treat ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Unlike traditional stimulant medications Clonidine doesn't cause side effects or addictive properties. It is also utilized to treat sleep issues.
You can purchase this medication in the form of Catapres tablet, or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets should be taken two times daily in the morning and at evening. You can take this medication with or without food.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice on how to make use of this medication. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Avoid taking other drugs that can cause dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure while you are taking clonidine. This includes alcohol, prescription drugs, and certain over-the-counter and supplement medication.
It is not recommended to use clonidine while you are having surgery or other medical procedures. It is also recommended to avoid mixing it with other drugs that may slow your heart rate, such as narcotics or tranquilizers.
Your doctor might ask you to test your blood pressure prior to and during treatment with clonidine. This will allow your doctor to decide if you're required to undergo an additional test in order to make sure that you do not have any other conditions that could be affected by this medication.
Clonidine is known for causing headaches, drowsiness and dry mouth, and a reduction in heart rate. These side effects are usually noticed after the first or second week of treatment and are not considered life-threatening.
Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects from this medication. These effects could include a slow heart rate, confusion or difficulty in urinating.
People suffering from kidney issues or diabetes could be more susceptible to side effects from Clonidine. This is because clonidine could affect your body's ability remove blood sugar from the blood. If you suffer from diabetes or kidney disease or diabetes, your doctor may suggest that you take a lower dose of Clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non stimulant medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It helps to strengthen the brain regions that control executive functions. adhd medication adults includes working memory, impulse control and attention. It is believed to improve connections between the prefrontal cortex of the brain and the other parts of the brain.
It is available in the form of an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. Both are taken at bedtime. The dosage is determined by your weight, the effectiveness of the medication, and any other medications you may be taking.
The dose daily for the first dose is typically 1 mg. However, your doctor might alter the dosage to meet your requirements. It is recommended to take this medication on a regular basis and follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you about any side effects you should be aware of. These may include dry mouth, weakness, or headaches.
These side effects usually go away within a few days after starting the medication. If they do not, contact your doctor immediately.
Guanfacine should not to be taken if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. It should not be taken when you are taking antihistamines, barbiturates, or other sedatives.
In addition you should avoid taking this medication if your condition is low blood pressure or a history of heart disease or stroke. These can result in severe side effects when taking guanfacine.
This medication should not ever be used by teens or children. It can cause drowsiness which makes it difficult to focus or think. They may also be more likely tics or become violent.
Older adults should also take Guanfacine in a cautious manner. This is due to the fact that they are more prone to serious adverse reactions, such as falls, accidents or injuries. They also have a greater risk of developing serious side effects from guanfacine due to the fact that it is more difficult to eradicate it from their bodies.
Guanfacine's drowsiness can make it difficult to operate machinery or drive. It is best not to drive or do anything that requires alertness until are sure it does not impact your health.