Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
There are a variety of options if you're trying for an ADHD medication that doesn't include stimulants. They're typically less expensive due to the fact that they're generic.
Stimulants are medications that increase brain levels of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine. They are used to treat certain kids and adults who suffer from ADHD however, they may cause negative side effects or not work at all.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an anti-stimulant drug is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. It does this by blocking the actions of a chemical within the brain called norepinephrine. It is not as effective as other ADHD drugs but it can be helpful for certain people.
Strattera, a non-stimulant ADHD drug offers the benefit of being less addictive and less dependent than stimulants. Stimulant drugs are Schedule II controlled substances, that means they're subject to strict federal regulations regarding how they're manufactured and distributed, and how they're prescribed and administered.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication has another advantage doctors can contact the pharmacy to order refills rather than prescribing a new prescription each month. This can save many people from having to visit their doctor each month.
In addition, Strattera has fewer side consequences than other ADHD medications. This is due to the fact that it's not an stimulant. However, it can cause serious heart problems in some people with a history of heart disease or a defect.
In this regard, it's imperative to inform your doctor if there are any heart-related issues or you're taking any other medications that 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.
Consult your physician If you are suffering from liver issues such as jaundice, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Your doctor can determine the most effective dosage for you based on tests on the liver to determine enzyme levels.
Strattera has been linked to strokes and heart attacks in a small number of people who have high blood pressure, heart disease, or other health problems. These risks are more likely early in treatment and when the dose is changed.
Similar to this, a rare condition called pheochromocytoma could be found in people who are taking Strattera. These symptoms can be extremely severe, so your doctor should be sure that you're not at risk.
Strattera can also cause nausea vomiting, stomach pains, nausea constipation and weight loss. These side effects usually disappear after some weeks of treatment.
Atomoxetine
The non stimulant ADHD medication atomoxetine, which is sold under the brand name Strattera is a selective reuptake of norepinephrine inhibitor (SNRI). It helps the brain by increasing focus and reducing restlessness in people with hyperactive and/or impulsive issues. It can be used by itself or in combination with other treatments for ADHD.
It was FDA approved as an ADHD medication in adults. It is typically employed off-label to treat depression. It is an inhibitor selective of norepinephrine-related uptake and targets the frontocortical area where ADHD symptoms are developed. It also blocks the serotonin transporter, (SERT), and N-methyl-d–aspartate receptors. Both are implicated in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have shown that atomoxetine produces significant improvement in the symptoms of ADHD especially in children. In addition it was associated with less adverse effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
However, atomoxetine can be linked to some changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Clinical studies have shown that around 15-26 percent of adolescents and children and 27 to 32 percent of adults are experiencing some measurable, but not statistically significant, increases in blood pressure or heart rate.
This is typically temporary and will return to the baseline. The changes that occur should be monitored. It is essential to keep track of blood pressure at the beginning of treatment as well as throughout the course of therapy. A chart of the percentile can be used to monitor blood pressure. Patients with hypertension should have their blood pressure checked more frequently.
Other side effects of atomoxetine can include dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, and a loss of coordination. These side effects are usually temporary and go away when the medication is used regularly.
It can take several weeks before atomoxetine can provide its full benefits. If you do not see improvements after taking atomoxetine, consult your doctor. It may be required to increase the dosage or take it more often than you normally.
Avoid driving or operating large machinery while taking this medication as you could be drowsy and experience difficulty functioning. If you are pregnant or are planning to have a baby, tell your doctor. It is also essential to keep this medication and all other medicines out reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is a non-stimulant adhd medication that was approved by the FDA in 2009. This medication affects the brain's nerve impulses to relax blood vessels. This medication lowers blood pressure and treats ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Contrary to the traditional stimulant medications, clonidine doesn't have any harmful side effects or addictive characteristics. It can also be used to treat sleep issues.
You can purchase this medication as a Catapres tablet or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets are typically used twice a day, in the morning and at bedtime. The tablets can be taken with or without food.
If you have questions about the best way to take this medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Be sure to follow the instructions on the prescription label carefully.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. These include alcohol, prescription medications, and some prescription and over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
You should not use clonidine during surgery or other medical procedures. It is also advised to avoid combining it with other medications 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 the course of clonidine. This will enable your doctor to determine if you need an additional test to confirm you don't have any underlying conditions that could be affected by this medication.
The most frequently reported adverse effects of clonidine include headache, drowsiness and dry mouth, and a lower heart rate. These effects typically occur after the first dose, or over several weeks of treatment . They aren't life-threatening.
However, if you experience any serious adverse reactions while taking this medication, speak to your doctor immediately. These side effects include confusion slowed heart rate, and difficulty in urinating.
People with kidney problems or diabetes may be at greater risk of adverse effects from the clonidine. Clonidine can reduce the body's ability remove blood sugar from your blood. If you suffer from kidney disease, or diabetes, your doctor may recommend taking a lower dose of Clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a medication that is not stimulant, is used to treat ADHD. (ADHD). It helps to strengthen the brain regions that control executive functions. This includes working memory, impulse control, and attention. It is believed to strengthen connections between the prefrontal cortex in the brain and other brain regions.
It is available in two forms: an immediate-release tablet as well as an extended-release tablet, both of which are given once a day at bedtime. The dose is based on your weight, the efficacy of the drug, and any other medications you may be taking.
The initial dose is typically 1 mg per day but your doctor may alter the dosage if needed. It is best to take this medication regularly and follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also tell you about any possible side effects that you should watch for. This could include dry mouth, weakness, or headache.
The side effects usually fade within a few weeks after beginning the medication. If they persist, consult your doctor right away.
Guanfacine should not be taken when you are allergic to it or any of the ingredients. It should not be used if you are on antihistamines or barbiturates as well as other sedatives.
It is not recommended to take this medication when your blood pressure is low or if have had heart attack or stroke in the past. These can lead to severe adverse effects when you take the drug guanfacine.
This medication should not be used by teenagers or children. add adult medications can cause drowsiness , which can make it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. They may also be more likely tics or become violent.
Guanfacine should be handled with caution for older adults. This is because they are more likely to have serious adverse reactions, such as falls, accidents, or injuries. They also have a higher risk of developing serious side effects from guanfacine because it is more difficult to get rid of it from their bodies.
Guanfacine can make it difficult to drive or operate machinery because of the drowsiness. You shouldn't operate machinery or perform any other task that requires your attention until you are certain that it won't affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.