Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're looking for an ADHD medication that doesn't contain stimulants, you have several options. Some are available in generic form, which means they're often cheaper.
Stimulants are medications that increase the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. They're used to treat some kids and adults who suffer from ADHD however, they may cause bad side effects or not work at all.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an anti-stimulation medication that is that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and children. It works by blocking the action of a substance in the brain called norepinephrine. It is not as effective as other ADHD drugs however, it can be beneficial for certain people.
Strattera is an unstimulant ADHD drug has the benefit of being less addictive and dependent than stimulants. Schedule II controlled substances are stimulant drugs. This means that they are regulated by the federal government regarding how they're made and prescribed.
Another benefit of a non-stimulant ADHD medication is that doctors are able to call it to the pharmacy and make refills, rather than writing monthly prescriptions for a new one. This could save many people the hassle of having to make an appointment with the doctor's office each month.
Additionally, Strattera has fewer side consequences than other ADHD medications. This is partly because it's not a stimulant. However, it could cause serious heart problems for people with a history of heart disease or defect.
It is important to inform your doctor if there are any heart-related conditions you suffer from or if you take any other medications that may affect the heart. They'll have to examine your blood pressure, heart rate as well as other health-related measurements while you're taking Strattera to ensure it's working correctly.
Discuss with your doctor if you have liver problems like jaundice or yellowing of the skin, or eyes. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you by conducting lab testing to determine liver enzyme levels.
A small proportion of people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or other health conditions have had heart attacks while taking Strattera. These risks could be greater during the initial treatment phase and after the dose is changed.
People who take Strattera could also develop a rare disease called "pheochromocytoma". These symptoms can be very severe, so your doctor must confirm 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 a few weeks.
Atomoxetine
Strattera is the brand name of the non-stimulant ADHD medication Atomoxetine. It is a selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor (SNRI). It works in the brain to boost focus and decrease restlessness among those with hyperactive and/or concentration or issues with impulse control. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with other therapies 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 production and targets the frontocortical part of the brain in which ADHD symptoms develop. It also blocks the serotonin-transporter (SERT), and N-methyl-d–aspartate receptors. Both of these are implicated in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have shown that atomoxetine can have a significant impact on ADHD symptoms, especially in children. Additionally, it was associated with less adverse effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
Certain changes in blood pressure or heart rate may be caused by atomoxetine. Clinical studies have revealed that about 15-26 percent of children and teenagers and 27 - 32 percent of adults, experience some measurable but not statistically significant, increases in blood pressure or heart rate.
In general, this rise is temporary and generally returns to baseline. The changes that occur should be monitored. In the beginning of treatment and throughout the course of treatment it is recommended that blood pressure be recorded regularly using the aid of a chart that shows the centile. Patients who have a history of hypertension should have their blood pressure monitored more frequently.
Other side effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion, and dizziness. These side effects are usually short-lived and will go away when you take the medicine regularly.
It is important to keep in mind that it could take a few weeks for atomoxetine to produce full-on benefits. Consult your physician If you don't experience any improvement after taking atomoxetine. You might need to increase the dosage or take it more frequently.
You are not allowed to operate any heavy equipment while taking this medication. You may feel tired or have trouble functioning. If you are pregnant or planning to have one, 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 works by affecting the brain's nerve impulses to relax blood vessels. This medication reduces blood pressure and helps treat ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Contrary to the traditional stimulant medications, clonidine isn't associated with any side effects or addictive properties. It can also be used to treat sleep problems.
This medication is available as tablets (Catapres) 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 without or with food.
If you have questions regarding the proper use of this medication, ask your physician or pharmacist. Be sure to follow the directions on the prescription label with care.
Clonidine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. These include alcohol, prescription medications, and some available over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
It is not recommended to use clonidine during surgery or other medical procedures. It is important to not combine clonidine with other medications that slow your heart rate, such as tranquilizers or narcotics.
Your doctor may request you to test your blood pressure prior to and during the clonidine treatment. This will allow your doctor to decide if it is necessary to undergo an additional test in order to ensure you don't have any existing conditions that could be affected by this medication.
The most commonly reported adverse effects of clonidine include headache, drowsiness and dry mouth, and a slower heart rate. These side effects usually occur after the first dose, or over several weeks after treatment and are not life-threatening.
Speak to your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects as a result of this medication. These side effects could include slowed heart rate, confusion or having trouble urinating.
Patients with kidney problems or diabetes are more susceptible to side effects from Clonidine. Clonidine is known to affect your body's ability remove blood sugar from your blood. If you have diabetes or kidney disease the doctor might suggest you take a smaller dose of clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non-stimulant drug, is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by strengthening brain regions that regulate 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 parts.
It is available in two forms: immediate-release tablets and as an extended-release tablet, both of which are taken each night before bed. The dosage is determined by your weight, effectiveness of the medication and any other you might
