Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
There are a variety of options if you're trying to find an ADHD medication that doesn’t contain stimulants. Certain of them are available in generic form, which means they're often cheaper.
Stimulants are substances that boost brain levels of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine. They're used to treat some children and adults with ADHD, but they can cause adverse side effects or not function at all.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an anti-stimulant drug is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It works by blocking the action of a chemical within the brain called norepinephrine. While it's not as effective or efficient as other ADHD medications, it can still be beneficial for certain people.
Strattera, a non-stimulant ADHD drug has the benefit of being less addictive and less dependent than stimulants. The stimulant medications are Schedule II controlled substances, which means they have strict federal regulations on how they're manufactured and prescribed, as well as how they are dispensed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication comes with another benefit: doctors can call the pharmacy to request refills instead of writing a new prescription every month. This can save many people the headache of having to make a an appointment with their doctor's office every month.
Strattera is also less likely to cause adverse effects than other ADHD medications. Because it is not a stimulant, that is a major reason. It can cause serious problems for those who have had heart disease or other problems in the past.
This is why it's essential to inform your doctor that you're suffering from any heart-related issues or you're taking any other medications that affect the heart. To ensure Strattera is working correctly your doctor will have to monitor your blood pressure, heart rate as well as other health measures.
Discuss with your doctor If you're suffering from liver problems such as jaundice, yellowing of the eyes, or skin. Your doctor can determine the right dosage for you by performing tests on the liver to determine enzyme levels.
Strattera has been linked to strokes and heart attacks in a tiny percentage of people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or other health issues. These risks could be greater at the beginning of treatment and after the dose is adjusted.
Similarly, a rare condition known as pheochromocytoma may be present in people who are taking Strattera. These symptoms can be severe so be sure you check with your doctor if you are at risk.
Other adverse effects of Strattera include a decrease in appetite nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, weight loss, headache and dry mouth. 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 to boost the concentration of people and reduce restlessness in those who suffer from hyperactivity and/or concentration or trouble controlling impulses. It can be used in conjunction with other ADHD treatments.
It was FDA approved as an ADHD medication in adults. It is often used without a prescription to treat depression. It is an extremely selective inhibitor of norepinephrine reuptake . It targets the fronto-cortical system, the area where ADHD symptoms begin to manifest. It also inhibits serotonin transporter (SERT) and N-methyl D-aspartate receptors. These are involved in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that atomoxetine has a substantial impact on ADHD symptoms, especially for children. Additionally it has been associated with less side effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
Some changes in blood pressure or heart rate could be caused by atomoxetine. Clinical trials have revealed that between 15 and 26% of children, adolescents and 32 percent of adults experience tangible, but statistically insignificant increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
The increase is usually temporary and it will eventually return to baseline. It is vital to track these changes. During initial treatment and during the course of treatment the blood pressure should be recorded regularly using the aid of a chart with a centile. Patients with a history of hypertension should be monitored for blood pressure more often.
Other side effects of atomoxetine are dizziness, drowsiness, confusion dry mouth, and a loss of coordination. These side effects are usually temporary and fade when the medication is used regularly.
It is important to remember that it can take a few weeks for atomoxetine's the full benefit. If you don't notice improvements after taking atomoxetine, talk with your doctor. You may need to increase the dosage or take it more frequently.
You should not operate any heavy equipment during the time you take this medicine. You might feel sleepy or have trouble functioning. If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby, tell your doctor. It is also essential to keep this and any other medicines out of the reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine, an adhd medication that is non-stimulant has been approved by FDA in 2009. Clonidine works by relaxing blood vessels by stimulating the brain's nerve impulses. This medication reduces blood pressure and treats ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Clonidine isn't addictive nor has no side effects, unlike other stimulant medicines. It can also be used to treat sleep disorders.
This medication is available as a tablet (Catapres) or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). The tablets are typically taken twice a day in the morning and at bedtime. It is possible to take this medication with or without food.
Ask your physician or pharmacist for any questions regarding how to take this medication. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure. These include alcohol, prescription drugs, and certain over-the-counter or supplement medication.
Clonidine should not be used during your surgery or other medical procedures. Also, avoid combining it with other medicines which can slow your heart rate, such as tranquilizers or narcotics.
Your doctor may want to check your blood pressure before and after you take clonidine. This will help your doctor determine if you should have an additional test to make sure that you do not have any other conditions that would be affected by this medication.
Clonidine is known for causing headaches, drowsiness and dry mouth, and a decrease in heart rate. medication for adults with add are typically experienced after the first or second week of treatment, and are not considered life-threatening.
If you experience serious adverse effects while taking this medication, speak to your doctor right away. These side effects can include a slowed heart rate, confusion or difficulty in urinating.
Clonidine may have adverse effects that are more likely to affect people with diabetes or kidney problems. Clonidine may reduce your body's ability to eliminate blood sugar from your blood. If you suffer from diabetes or kidney disease the doctor might suggest you take a smaller dose of Clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non stimulant medication used to treat the condition of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by enhancing areas in the brain that regulate executive functions, which include working memory, impulse control, and attention. It is believed to enhance connections between the prefrontal cortex of the brain 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 taken every night at bedtime. The dosage is based on your weight, the efficacy of the drug, and any other medications you might be taking.
The initial dose is typically 1 mg per day, but your doctor may alter the dosage if necessary. It is important to take this medication on a regular basis and to follow the instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also tell you about any possible side effects that you should watch out for. These may include dry mouth headaches, weakness, or dry mouth.
These side effects typically get better within a few days after the start of the medication. If they continue to bother you, consult your doctor right away.
Guanfacine is not recommended in the event of an allergy to it or any of its ingredients. It is not recommended to use if you are on antihistamines or barbiturates as well as other sedatives.
In addition, you should not take this medication if your condition is low blood pressure or an antecedent history of heart disease or stroke. These can lead to severe side effects when you take guanfacine.
Children and teens should use this medication very cautiously. It can cause drowsiness , which can make it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. They also can be more likely to become violent or show the tics.
Guanfacine must be used with caution by people who are older. This is due to the fact that they are more likely to suffer serious side effects, such as falls, accidents or injuries. They also have a higher risk of developing serious side effects from guanfacine since it is more difficult to eliminate it from their bodies.
Guanfacine may make it more difficult to drive or operate machinery due to fatigue. You should not drive or do any other activity that requires a high level of alertness until you are certain that it won't affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.