Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
There are many options to choose from if you're trying to find an ADHD medication that doesn't include stimulants. Some of them are available in generic form, so they're usually cheaper.
Stimulants are substances that boost the levels in the brain of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. These medications are used to treat ADHD in children and adults. However, they could cause side effects or even not work at any time.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant medication that is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and children. It blocks the brain's chemical neurotransmitter norepinephrine from functioning. While it's not as effective and efficient as other ADHD medications, it can still be beneficial for certain people.
Strattera, a non-stimulant ADHD drug has the advantage of being less addictive and less dependent than stimulants. Schedule II controlled substances are stimulant medications. This means they have strict federal rules concerning how they're produced and prescribed.
Another benefit of a non-stimulant ADHD medication is that doctors can bring it to the pharmacy and request refills, instead of having to write monthly prescriptions. This could save many from having to go to their doctor each month.
Additionally, Strattera has fewer side negative effects than other ADHD medications. This is due to the fact that it's not an stimulant. It can cause serious problems for those who have had heart disease or other heart problems in the past.
It's crucial to inform your doctor if there are any heart-related conditions you suffer from or if you take any other drugs that can affect the heart. To make sure that Strattera is working properly the doctor will need to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and other health indicators.
Speak to your doctor If you are suffering from liver issues such as jaundice, or yellowing of the skin, or eyes. Testing for liver enzyme levels can help your doctor determine the right dosage for you.
A small percentage of patients with high blood pressure heart defects, or other health conditions have had heart attacks when taking Strattera. These risks could be greater during the initial treatment phase and after the dose is altered.
People who use Strattera could also be affected by a rare condition called "pheochromocytoma". These symptoms can be extremely severe so be sure to consult with your doctor if you are at risk.
Other adverse effects of Strattera include decreased appetite, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, constipation, weight loss headache and dry mouth. These side effects typically disappear after just a few weeks of usage.
Atomoxetine
Strattera is the brand name of the non-stimulant ADHD medication Atomoxetine. It is a selective norepinephrine inhibitor (SNRI). It works in the brain by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in people who have hyperactive, concentration or impulse control issues. It can be used in conjunction with other ADHD treatments.
It was FDA approved as an ADHD medication for adults. It is typically employed off-label to treat depression. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine uptake and targets the frontocortical system that is where ADHD symptoms develop. It also blocks the serotonin transporter, (SERT), and N-methyl-d–aspartate receptors. These are both implicated in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have proven that atomoxetine can have a significant effect on ADHD symptoms, particularly for children. It also had fewer side negative effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
Some changes in heart rate or blood pressure could be caused by atomoxetine. The results of clinical trials have shown that 15 to 26% of children, adolescents, and 32% of adults experience some noticeable, but statistically unimportant increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
In general, this increase is temporary and typically returns to the baseline. The changes that occur should be monitored. It is important to monitor blood pressure in the initial phase of treatment and throughout the course of therapy. A chart of the centile is a good way to keep track of blood pressure. Patients with hypertension should be checked for blood pressure more frequently.
The side effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion and dizziness. These side effects are usually short-lived and will go away when you take the medication on a regular basis.
It may take several weeks before atomoxetine gives its full benefits. Talk to your doctor in the event that you don't notice any improvement after taking atomoxetine. You may need to increase your dosage or take it more frequently.
Do not operate large machinery while taking this medicine as you could be drowsy and experience difficulty functioning. If you are pregnant or are planning to have one, consult your doctor. It is important to keep all medications away from the reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is an adhd medication that is not stimulant was approved by FDA in 2009. This medication works by affecting the brain's nerve impulses to relax blood vessels. This medication lowers blood pressure and helps treat ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
In contrast to traditional stimulant drugs, clonidine does not have negative side effects or addictive qualities. It can also be used to treat sleep problems.
The medication is available as tablets (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets are usually taken twice per day in the morning, and at night. You can take this medication with or without food.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist If you have any questions about how to take this medication. Make sure you follow the instructions on the prescription label carefully.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. This includes alcohol, certain prescription drugs, and a few prescription and over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Clonidine should not be used during surgery or any other medical procedure. It is crucial to not combine clonidine and other medications that may slow your heart rate, like tranquilizers or opioids.
Your doctor might ask you to test your blood pressure prior to and during treatment with clonidine. This will enable your doctor to determine if you need an additional test to ensure that you don't have any existing conditions which could be affected by this medication.
Clonidine can cause headaches, drowsiness, dry mouth, and a reduction in heart rate. These effects typically occur after the first dose or after several weeks after treatment and aren't life-threatening.
Talk to your doctor immediately If you experience any serious side effects as a result of this medication. These side effects could include a slowed heart rate, confusion, or difficulty in urinating.
Patients with kidney problems or diabetes may be at greater risk of side effects from the clonidine. Clonidine can reduce the body's ability to eliminate blood sugar from your blood. If you suffer from diabetes or kidney disease your doctor may suggest you take a smaller dose of clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a medication that is not stimulant is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It helps by strengthening the areas of the brain that control executive functions which include working memory, impulse control, and attention. It is believed that it will strengthen connections between the brain's prefrontal cortex and the 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, the effectiveness of the medication and any other you may be taking.
The first dose is usually 1 mg daily, however your doctor may alter the dosage if necessary. It is recommended to take this medication regularly and follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you about any adverse effects that you should watch for. These could include dry mouth, weakness, or headache.
These side effects usually disappear within a few days of starting the medication. If they don't notify your doctor immediately.
Guanfacine should not be taken if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. You should not also use it if you are taking antihistamines or barbiturates or any other sedatives.
You should not take this medication if your blood pressure is too low or you have suffered an attack or stroke in the past. These can cause severe side effects with guanfacine.
Teens and children should take this medication with extreme caution. It can cause drowsiness that can make it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. Additionally, adhd and medication are more likely to be violent or exhibit the tics.
Guanfacine should be used with caution for older adults. This is due to the fact that they are more likely to experience serious adverse effects, including falls, accidents or injuries. It can also be more difficult for them to eliminate the body of guanfacine, which can increase the risk of serious side effects.
Guanfacine can make it difficult to drive or operate machinery due to the effects of drowsiness. You should not engage in any activity that requires alertness until are certain that it will not impact your health.