Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're in search of an ADHD medication that doesn't contain stimulants, you have several options. Certain of them are offered in generic forms, so they're typically less expensive.
Stimulants are medications that increase the levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine within your brain. They are used to treat ADHD in children as well as adults. However, they can 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 blocks the brain's chemical norepinephrine working. Although it's not as effective and efficient as other ADHD medications, it can still be beneficial for some people.
Strattera, a non-stimulant ADHD drug offers the benefit of being less addictive and dependent than stimulants. Stimulant drugs are Schedule II controlled substances, which means that they're subject to strict federal regulations on how they're manufactured, prescribed and dispensed.
Another benefit of a non-stimulant ADHD medication is that doctors can bring it to the pharmacy and make refills, rather than writing a new prescription each month. This can spare many people from having to travel to their doctor every month.
Strattera is also less likely to cause adverse effects than other ADHD medications. Since it's not a stimulant. This is partly why. However, it can cause serious heart problems in some patients with a history of heart disease or a defect.
As a result, it's essential to inform your doctor that you're suffering from any heart conditions or if you're taking any other medications that affect the heart. They'll have to examine your blood pressure, heart rate and other health indicators when you're taking Strattera to ensure that it's functioning properly.
Also, you should consult with your doctor if you have any liver issues, such as jaundice or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Testing for liver enzyme levels can help your doctor determine the appropriate dosage for you.
Strattera has been associated with strokes and heart attacks in a small percentage of people with 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 could also be affected by a rare disease called "pheochromocytoma". The symptoms can be quite severe so be sure you check with your physician if are at risk.
Strattera can cause nausea and stomach pains constipation, weight loss and stomach pain. These side effects typically disappear after several weeks of use.
Atomoxetine
Strattera is the brand name used for the non-stimulant ADHD medication Atomoxetine. It is a selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor (SNRI). It works in the brain by increasing focus and reducing anxiety in those with hyperactive, concentration or impulse control issues. It is a great option to use in conjunction with other ADHD treatments.
It was the first non-stimulant drug to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment in adults . It is often prescribed off-label as a treatment for depression. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine uptake and targets the frontocortical area which is where ADHD symptoms are developed. It also blocks serotonin transporter (SERT) and N-methyl D-aspartate receptors. These are implicated in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that atomoxetine has a significant effect in the symptoms of ADHD particularly for children. Additionally, it was associated with less adverse effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
Some changes in heart rate or blood pressure may be caused by atomoxetine. Clinical studies have shown that around 15 - 26 percent of children and adolescents and 27 to 32 percent of adults, experience some measurable, but not statistically significant, rises in heart rate or blood pressure.
The increase is usually temporary and it will eventually return to baseline. These changes should be monitored. It is vital to monitor blood pressure during the initial treatment and throughout the course of treatment. A centile chart is a good way to keep track of blood pressure. People with a history hypertension should be monitored for blood pressure more often.
Side effects of atomoxetine also include dizziness, confusion and sleepiness. These side effects are usually temporary and go away when you take the medicine regularly.
It may take a few weeks before atomoxetine gives its full benefits. If you do not notice improvement after taking atomoxetine talk with your doctor. You may need to increase your dose or take it more frequently.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this medicine because you could become sleepy and have difficulty functioning. It is important to inform your doctor that you are pregnant or plan to have children. It is crucial to keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is a non stimulant adhd medication that was approved by the FDA in 2009. This medication works by affecting nerve impulses in the brain to relax blood vessels. This reduces blood pressure and aids in treating ADHD symptoms, such as hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Clonidine isn't addictive nor does not cause any adverse side effects unlike other stimulant medications. It can also be used to treat sleep issues.
You can purchase this medication as a Catapres tablet or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). most effective adhd medication for adults should be taken two times daily: in the morning and at the night. The tablets can be taken without or with food.
Ask your physician or pharmacist if you have questions about how to take this medication. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. These include alcohol, prescription drugs, and certain over-the-counter and supplement medication.
You should not use clonidine during your surgery or other medical procedures. It is also recommended to avoid mixing it with other drugs that can slow your heart rate, like tranquilizers or narcotics.
Your doctor might want to test your blood pressure before and after you take clonidine. This will allow your doctor to decide if it is necessary to have an additional test to ensure that you don't have any underlying conditions that could be affected by this medication.
The most common adverse effects of clonidine include drowsiness, headache, dry mouth, and a reduced heart rate. These side effects are typically observed after the initial or second week of treatment and are not considered life-threatening.
Consult your physician immediately when you notice any serious side effects from this medication. These side effects include confusion slowing of heart rate, as well as difficulty in urinating.
Clonidine may cause side effects that are more likely to affect people with kidney or diabetes. Clonidine can hinder your body's ability to remove blood sugar from your blood. If you suffer from kidney disease, or diabetes your doctor may suggest you take a smaller dose of Clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non-stimulant medicine, is used to treat the condition known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It helps to strengthen the areas of the brain that regulate executive functions. These include working memory, impulse control and attention. It is believed to improve connections between the prefrontal cortex and the other regions of the brain.
It is available in two forms: immediate-release tablets and as an extended-release tablet, both of which are administered daily at bedtime. The dosage is determined by your weight, the effectiveness of any other medications you are taking.
The recommended daily dose for the initial dose is usually 1 mg. However, your physician may adjust the dosage to suit your requirements. It is essential to take this medication on a regular basis and to follow the instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you about any potential side effects you should be aware of. This could include dry mouth, weakness or headache.
These side effects typically get better within a few days of starting the medication. If they are still present, you should consult your doctor right away.
Guanfacine should not to be taken if you have an allergy to it or any of its ingredients. It should not be used in conjunction with antihistamines, barbiturates or other sedatives.
You should not take this medication when your blood pressure is low or if you have suffered a stroke or heart attack in the past. These can result in severe adverse effects when you take the drug guanfacine.
This medication should not ever be used by children or teens. It may cause drowsiness and can make it difficult for you to concentrate or think clearly. They could also be more likely to have antics or be violent.
Guanfacine should be used with caution by people who are older. This is because older people are more prone to serious adverse effects , such as falls, injuries and accidents. It can also be more difficult to remove Guanfacine out of their bodies, which increases the chance of suffering from serious adverse side effects.
The drowsiness associated with guanfacine could make it more difficult to operate machinery or drive. You should not drive or do anything that requires you to be alert until you are certain that it won't affect you.