Non Prescription ADHD Medication
For many people suffering from ADHD the first step to treat is taking medication. The use of medication can help increase focus and decrease impulsivity.
The most frequently used medication for ADHD is stimulants. They function by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They come in both short-acting as well as long-acting versions.
1. Stimulants
Many people with ADHD utilize stimulant drugs which increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. These drugs help them focus, pay attention, and control impulses. They can also help reduce the symptoms of depression or anxiety. Doctors prescribe them in various forms, from liquid or chewable tablets to extended-release capsules that can last up to 16 hours. Long-lasting medication can help prevent "ups-and-downs" throughout the day. However, some patients require supplementation with a shorter-acting medicine at the end of the day or evening.
Stimulants may cause adverse effects, like heart palpitations, changes in vision, and ringing of the ears. They also can raise blood pressure and alter appetite. They can also have longer-term impacts on the brains that are developing of teenagers and children, which is why doctors are careful about prescribing them to teenagers.
Amphetamines are an type of stimulant that is legally prescribed as ADHD medication and can help people with ADHD concentrate better. They come in the form of amphetamines and are typically taken orally in tablet or powder form however they can be smoked or injected. People who do not have ADHD can make use of them to lose weight or to boost their energy. They are more likely to be abused. Some people with eating disorders are also using them.
The NSDUH survey only asks if someone has ever engaged in non-medical use of prescription ADHD stimulants, not seeking specific kinds of drugs or brands. This could result in an underestimation of people who take substances other than the ones prescribed by doctors for ADHD. adhd medication online does not provide information about the motivation for using drugs. This is crucial.
Some people with ADHD can cut down on their non-medical stimulant usage by coordinating their time and tasks differently and ensuring they have time for family and relaxation. Other people find relief by exploring alternative therapies that are natural such as oligomeric prosanthocyanidins (OPCs). These are biochemical compounds found in plant extracts including pine bark, green tea and grape. Greenblatt has helped patients regain their ability to write after taking OPC supplements.
2. Ritalin
Ritalin, also known as methylphenidate, an stimulant for the central nervous system that is prescribed to treat ADHD in children and adults. It works by increasing levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, which helps people focus and concentrate. The medication is typically taken orally but can also be injected. The misuse of this drug could result in a severe psychological and physical dependence. Users of injections face a variety of complications, including blood-borne diseases such as HIV, the hepatitis B and C because of insoluble fillers that block small blood vessels. This drug abuse has been linked to psychotic episodes.
In general, ADHD medications work by changing the way that neurotransmitters (such as dopamine and norepinephrine) are used in the brain to lessen symptoms of the condition, such as impulsivity and hyperactivity. They can also help improve concentration and focus, decrease fidgeting and other distracting behavior and increase the capacity to adhere to an agenda or task. Doctors may prescribe one or more types of medication to manage ADHD, and they'll work with patients to determine the appropriate dosage and schedule for each patient.
Many people experience side effects from the use of stimulants to treat ADHD. These are usually mild, but can include stomach upset, headaches; fast heartbeat; trouble sleeping; dry mouth; and changes in blood pressure. The symptoms typically disappear on their own or after a couple of days as the body gets familiar with the medication. Some sufferers develop tolerance to drugs, which means that a higher dosage is needed to achieve the same effects. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms and addiction when the dose is suddenly reduced or stopped altogether.
It's important that you tell your doctor about any other medications you take particularly those that treat depression and sleep disorders. They can interact with stimulants. It is also important to provide a complete list of any drinks, foods, or herbal remedies that you take. This information will allow your doctor to choose an appropriate medication that won't affect your current treatment.
3. Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are man-made drugs that cause mild to severe depress of the nerves in the brain (central nervous system) and the sensation of sedation. They work by increasing the effect of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), the neurotransmitter used by neurons in the brain to communicate. GABA can slow down brain activity, and benzodiazepines can be effective in treating seizures and anxiety.
The medications included in this class are alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) diazepam (Valium) and clobazam (Onfi, Sympazane). These drugs are extremely addictive and could cause breathing problems that can lead to coma or death, especially if mix them with alcohol or other depressants like opioid painkillers. They can also trigger severe withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them too early. Due to their potential for misuse, it is recommended to keep benzodiazepines in a locked cabinet and only use them as directed by your physician.
These drugs are often employed "off-label" for ADHD, meaning they're not approved by the FDA to treat this condition. Studies have proven that these drugs can be effective for those who cannot tolerate stimulants or don't to find relief. They do not cause or exacerbate the tics that are associated with Tourette syndrome. They can be given to children as young as six years old.
Be aware that benzodiazepines could cause suicidal behavior or thoughts in a few teenagers, children and adults when they are receiving treatment or shortly after beginning treatment. Discuss with your doctor should you have any concerns or a family history of suicide. Be sure to inform your doctor about all medications you or your child is taking such as over-the-counter supplements and vitamins. Certain medications may cause dangerous side effects and interact with benzodiazepines. Your provider will recommend the best medication and treatment plan for you or your children. Be patient and follow the prescribed schedule. It may take some time to see results. Some patients must continue taking benzodiazepines for a long period of time. These drugs are typically employed in conjunction with other treatments to provide relief from symptoms. This is typical for adults who cannot tolerate stimulants.
4. Atomoxetine
This medication is a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor that works by increasing the amount of this brain chemical to control impulses and improve concentration. It is usually used as a part of a treatment plan for ADHD and is utilized in conjunction with other medications. It can also be effective for those suffering from co-morbid conditions such as depression or anxiety. Atomoxetine is available as liquid or capsules and should be taken every day with the aid of a glass of fluid. Children and adolescents may suffer mild side effects, such as headaches or abdominal pain. If you experience a more serious reaction, such as suicidal feelings or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical care.
It can take up to two weeks for atomoxetine to begin to work and it could be several months before the full effects are noticeable. It is usually recommended for children who are at risk of consuming stimulants as well as for people with multiple disorders. According to one study this medication is especially effective for those suffering from the inattentive type of ADHD.
It is not effective in all patients with adolescent-onset ADHD or those suffering from anxiety or tics that are co-morbid. This drug should not be taken by patients with a family history of Pheochromocytoma, which is a tumor of the adrenal glands or glaucoma. Before taking atomoxetine, it is essential to inform your doctor of any other health issues you may be suffering from.
Nonstimulant medications are a viable option for people who cannot take stimulant drugs because of glaucoma or heart conditions. According to the Child Mind Institute, these drugs alter the chemical balance in specific regions of the brain. They are approved for children from the age of 6 to teens and adults. Some of these medications are clonidine ER (Kapvay) and Guanfacine E.R. (Intuniv).
These medications may cause adverse effects, such as an increase in blood tension and sinus tachycardia. Additionally, they may interact with other medications your child is taking. They may also interact with certain medication for anxiety and depression.