Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
Medications help treat ADHD by targeting brain chemicals that affect attention and impulse control. The medications come in many forms such as tablets that can be swallowed or chewed, along with patches and liquids.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate, also known by the brand names Ritalin or Concerta stimulate the activity of brain regions that regulate attention. There are also longer-acting versions of these medications that release drugs continuously throughout the day, helping lessen symptoms.
Non-stimulant medications
Many people take medication to improve their attention and control of impulses. These medications are addictive however they are the most effective. If your doctor feels that stimulants aren't effective or have unpleasant side effects, they could suggest switching to non-stimulant drugs. These drugs are more difficult to use but they can help alleviate symptoms. They can also be more effective when they are combined with other treatments.
The two main categories of ADHD treatments are stimulants as well as non-stimulant medications. Amphétamines and methylphenidate are two of the stimulants most commonly used in the treatment of ADHD. There are a variety of forms of these medications that include immediate-release and long-acting versions. Immediate-release stimulants are taken when needed, and are usually taken at the beginning of the day. Long-acting stimulants are administered once each morning and typically last from six to 16 hours. The majority of people who take these medications use a combination of long-acting and immediate-release medication to manage their symptoms throughout the day.
Alpha antagonists and norepinephrine modulators are both non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat ADHD. Norepinephrine moderators include atomoxetine (Stattera), and guanfacine, (Tenex or Intuniv). The alpha agonists used to treat ADHD are clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Tenex Intuniv, Tenex). A stimulant can be dangerous for teens with substance abuse problems or an history of substance abuse. Non-stimulant medications is an option for this particular group since it doesn't have the addiction potential or side negative effects.
Many people discover that their first ADHD medication isn't working or causes troublesome adverse effects. It is important to speak to your doctor and try different medications if you need to. Your doctor can help figure out the extent to which your current medication is having an effect by checking for specific side effects, such as heart rate fluctuations, ringing in the ears or a change in blood pressure. It's also a good idea to discuss the other supplements and medications that you or your child is taking in addition to prescription or over-the-counter.
Antidepressants
Stimulant medication is the most common type of medication used to treat ADHD. They stimulate the central nervous system, thereby increasing alertness and decreasing distractibility. They also help improve concentration, and they have the added benefit of helping people to feel more at ease with their behavior and emotions. The majority of people take these drugs well, but there are some negative side effects. Some people experience a decrease of appetite or drowsiness while others experience an increased heart rate or sleepiness. People who have a history of depression or bipolar disorders are more likely to experience psychosis after taking stimulant medication.
Certain stimulants can cause people to feel unusually angry or aggressive, especially when they first begin to take the drug. If these symptoms persist you should consult their physician about adjusting the dosage or trying another medication. Stimulants may also increase blood pressure and cause seizures in some individuals. Some sufferers may experience a decrease in sexual desire as well as delayed ejaculation after taking the drugs.
how to treat adhd without medication in adults , like serotonin-boosting drugs, may interfere with the efficacy of some ADHD medications. This could result in a loss of efficacy, so it is important for those suffering from both ailments to discuss their needs for medication with their physicians.
Many people, including children, who suffer from ADHD also suffer from anxiety or depression and these disorders can affect certain ADHD medications. It is crucial to discuss both conditions with your doctor, since you may be able find a medication that addresses all of your symptoms.
Antidepressants are generally well-accepted by adolescents and teens however suicidal thoughts must be closely monitored. In the event of extreme or persistent suicidal ideas, a medical professional should be immediately contacted. This can be done by calling 911 or contacting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Certain antidepressants can cause feelings of guilt and despair. This is especially true for tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor). These drugs are typically prescribed for ADHD off-label, but they can be beneficial if other treatments have failed.
Blood pressure medication
Medicines that lower blood pressure can also aid in controlling symptoms of ADHD which include sleep issues and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres), long-acting Guanfacine (Intuniv) and atomoxetine (Atomoxetine) belong to the group of medications known as alpha agonists. They are approved to treat high blood pressure, but have been used "off label" for a number of years to treat ADHD. These medications reduce anxiety as well as improve sleep and concentration. They also decrease heart rate and blood-pressure, making them safer than stimulants.
It's not known if these medications impact the long-term development of brain cells in teenagers and children. Researchers are also unsure whether they have an lasting impact on heart-related issues in these people, which is why some experts are skeptical of their use. Certain people could be at increased risk of seizures while taking these medications. The American Heart Association recommends that people with a history of heart disease, stroke or other cardiovascular issues have a cardiac evaluation before starting the medication.
Stimulant ADHD medication can cause habit-forming and can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It also has an adverse effect on appetite and sleep. In addition, it's not safe for babies and young children. It could also have long-lasting negative effects on the brains of children, which may result in drug abuse.
The FDA warns that adults and teens with ADHD, who are suffering from anxiety or depression, but have not received treatment, should avoid stimulant medications. These people need to seek psychosocial therapy. This includes a behavioral therapy that helps develop positive coping skills and assists in improve social interactions.
Some prescription ADHD medications can trigger negative side effects, such as stomach upset, headaches, and difficulty sleeping. If the effects are severe, a doctor may decrease your dosage or switch to a different drug. If you notice any serious side effects, like heart palpitations or hallucinations, call your doctor right away.
Even if they claim they do, over-the-counter supplements and medications are not helpful in treating ADHD. Many supplements and vitamins aren't backed by scientific evidence and may interact with certain medications. Discuss with your doctor all supplements and medications you take including those sold over-the-counter.
Other medications
Most clinical guidelines recommend stimulant medication as the first option for treatment for ADHD. But they're not for everyone, and there is evidence that non-stimulant drugs are equally effective for some people. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medication, as are the clonidine ER and guanfacine is ER are available to children between the ages of 6 and 17. These medications increase certain brain chemicals that enhance the ability to focus and impulse control as well as working memory.
In addition to these medications, many doctors prescribe other drugs to treat ADHD. They are usually antidepressants or other drugs that alter brain chemical. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that can help patients with ADHD and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a different stimulant medication often used off-label to treat the condition.
The medications are available in the form of tablets, capsules liquid, patches or capsules. It is important to read the label carefully to ensure that you or your child are taking the right dosage. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications or supplements, including herbal remedies and over-the-counter drugs. Some may interact with ADHD medication and cause undesirable side effects.
Natural remedies for ADHD could help a small number of people, but they don't have the same scientific support as FDA-approved drugs. For example, the herb DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) is sometimes sold as an over-the-counter ADHD treatment, but the FDA warns that it can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to serious health problems. St. John's wort is another herbal supplement that people recommend for ADHD however, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says there isn't enough evidence to prove that it is effective as treatment.
Over-the-counter ADHD medications aren't a substitute for medical attention. If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of the disorder, speak with your doctor about the medications. Discuss with your doctor the best treatment options should you or your child decide that prescription medication is right. He or she will consider your family's lifestyle, other medications your child or you uses, as well as your medical history to identify the best medication for you.