ADHD Treatment Medication
Stimulants, the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD, appear to regulate brain chemicals and increase their levels. However, they cannot solve the problem and will only help with symptoms as long as they're taken regularly.
The side effects of ADHD medication may include changes in heart rate and blood pressure, upset stomach as well as anxiety and tics. Some children and teens who take stimulant medications experience a slight reduction in their growth.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant and is the most widely prescribed medication for ADHD. It comes in a variety of forms including liquid, chewable tablet as well as a long-acting oral disintegrating tablet and an extended-release pill. The drug increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This helps to improve concentration. It may also reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Methylphenidate is a proven treatment for ADHD when combined with other treatments, like behavioural therapy.
Methylphenidate blocks transporters that eliminate these neurotransmitters naturally from the brain. The drug may cause an increase in blood pressure or heart rate. People who suffer from diabetes should be aware of this medication as it could cause rapid increases in blood sugar. Speak to your doctor when you notice any of these signs. Methylphenidate is also known to cause a condition known as Raynaud's phenomena that causes numbness as well as pain in the fingers and toes. This is a rare side effect, but it is important to tell your doctor if you have these symptoms.
There is some concerns that methylphenidate may slow children's growth, however it hasn't been proved to be the case. If you have a child receiving treatment with methylphenidate ensure that you monitor the child's weight and height closely. If your child is taking a tablet containing methylphenidate that contains phenylalanine, it can be dangerous to children with Phenylketonuria. If you have PKU, consult your physician about other formulations of methylphenidate.
Certain people have issues with stimulants, which are the first option for treating ADHD. In these instances, doctors may prescribe other medications that work similarly. Besides methylphenidate, there are other stimulants, such as dexamfetamine and Lisdexamfetamine. These are more potent than methylphenidate, and they can last longer. The typical dosage is twice or three times daily however some individuals might be able to take them more frequently. Psychological treatments are also available for treating ADHD however they are less likely to be beneficial than stimulants.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera and is a non-stimulant ADHD medication that improves concentration while reducing hyperactivity and impulsiveness. It belongs to a class called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. It works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine two chemical messengers that control the brain's activity. It is a popular choice for children and adults who prefer a different type of medication than stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse.
It is important to remember that atomoxetine is not effective instantly and it could take up to six weeks for the effects of the drug to become apparent. You may also experience adverse effects like drowsiness and nausea. However, the benefits of atomoxetine surpass the risks for many patients.
The efficacy of atomoxetine was confirmed in a multisite double-blind placebo-controlled trial with 297 ADHD patients aged 12 to 18. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either atomoxetine in a daily dose of 0.6 mg/kg or 1.2 mg/kg or a placebo over 9 weeks. In both atomoxetine as well as placebo groups depression symptoms were reduced. The atomoxetine group experienced greater improvements in ADHD symptoms than the placebo group. However the improvement was not as dramatic (Michelson et al 2001).
In a follow-up open trial, 10 ADHD patients who were not responding to stimulants received the treatment of atomoxetine for eight weeks. The group receiving atomoxetine had improved ADHD symptoms compared to the placebo group with scores on the Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale Investigator Rated Screening version as well as the Clinical Global Impressions of Severity scale improving significantly. One patient had to withdraw due to an rash. Three patients also reported transient digestive symptoms, and one patient reported increased fatigue.
Before beginning treatment with atomoxetine to your doctor about your health history as well as any other medications or supplements that you are taking. This includes herbal remedies as well as over the counter medicines. Discuss with your doctor if any of the following conditions exist: narrow-angle glaucoma; a thyroid or adrenal gland tumour; high blood pressure; heart disease or a history sudden death. You should also avoid atomoxetine if taken an MAO inhibitor like isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection rasagiline, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Bupropion
Bupropion is a nonstimulant that can improve the symptoms of ADHD. It can also decrease impulsivity, and increase focus. However it doesn't affect the brain in the same way that stimulants do. Only prescriptions are accepted. Your doctor will determine the best dose for you. Bupropion comes in tablets and extended-release capsules. It is important to follow the prescriptions. You might experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop abruptly.
The usual dosage is two or three doses per day, separated by four to six hours. The dosage can range from 100mg two or three times per day to 150mg three or four time every day. The drug is in the digestive system and excreted into urine. It is not able to enter breast milk. However, it could get into the bloodstream and cause harm to other organs. Bupropion may increase blood pressure, making it important to monitor it frequently.
In addition to helping improve the symptoms of ADHD Bupropion can also reduce depression. It is also used to treat bipolar disorder. It is a method of blocking dopamine receptors in your brain. This blocks the neurotransmitter dopamine from reaching your brain, which helps stabilize your mood.
Bupropion may interact with other drugs It's therefore important to inform your doctor of any other medications you're taking. It's also important to find out if you have any allergies. You should also avoid caffeine or other stimulants, as they can make the side effects worse.
Numerous studies have compared bupropion to placebos in adults suffering from ADHD. These studies had mixed results, and many were poorly designed. Many of these studies did not include participants with psychiatric co-morbidity. However, adhd medication uk suggests that bupropion may have a small effect on ADHD. Further research is needed to determine positive outcomes for patients, such as the improvement in their quality of living. Additionally, a more precise understanding of the molecular subtypes of ADHD is required before effective treatment can be created. This requires a deeper understanding of the relationship between the various molecular pathways. It's also important to understand the way that anti-ADHD medications work in combination with psychotherapy.
Tricyclic antidepressants
When the stimulants prescribed to children with ADHD do not work or cause adverse side effects, doctors might turn to antidepressants as a treatment. These drugs, like imipramine and Nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor), increase the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which helps people concentrate. These are older drugs which can cause serious adverse reactions, and are usually only used when other medications have failed.
The first choice for depression-related antidepressants is typically an inhibitor of serotonin reuptake (SSRI), such as fluoxetine, sertraline, or citalopram. Tricyclic antidepressants are still being used in some cases, despite their long history. These medications are also effective in treating neuropathic pain. They have an additional pain-relieving effect that is distinct from their antidepressant properties. They potentiate the noradrenephrine receptor through blocking its reuptake. They also function as descending modulators for pain pathways in spinal cord.
SSRIs have a lower risk of toxicity, and less serious side effects than tricyclic antidepressants. They are also safer during pregnancy and do not appear to be teratogenic for humans or animals. But they can have significant withdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped. To reduce the risk of these adverse effects, your physician may suggest reducing the dose gradually over a period of time.
While not officially approved by the FDA as a medication for adhd bupropion is commonly prescribed antidepressant that is off-label for ADHD. It is believed to increase neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which improves concentration. It's also known to relieve anxiety, and it can be used in conjunction with stimulants to get faster and lasting results.
There are no FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medications, however many people find relief from herbal remedies and supplements to their diets. A diet low in fat and sugar can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Some people might benefit from avoiding caffeine. It is important to inform your doctor about all medications you or your child uses, including prescription drugs and herbal remedies. This will help minimize unwanted side effects and prevent interactions. ADHD medications can affect every person differently, and it's often a trial and error to discover the right drug and dosage for your child or yourself.