Non Prescription ADHD Medication
For many people suffering from ADHD, the first step towards treatment is taking medication. The use of medication can help increase focus and decrease the likelihood of being impulsive.
The most common medication used for ADHD is stimulants. They are used to increase the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They are available in short-acting and long-acting versions.
1. Stimulants
Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulants which increase dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels in the brain. These medications improve their ability to focus and pay attention as well as control impulses. They may also help decrease the symptoms of depression or anxiety. Doctors prescribe them in a variety of forms, from liquid or chewable tablets to extended-release capsules that can last up to 16 hours. Long-lasting medicines can prevent "ups-and-downs" throughout the day. However, some people require supplementation with a shorter-acting medicine at the end of the day or evening.
Stimulants may cause side effects like heart palpitations changes in vision and ringing in the ears. They can also alter appetite and raise blood pressure. They may also have long-term effects on developing brains of adolescents and children and that is why doctors should be cautious when prescribing them.
Amphetamines are a type of stimulant that can be legally prescribed as ADHD medications. They can also help some people with ADHD focus better. They are a form of amphetamines and are typically taken orally in powder or tablet form, but they can also be injected or smoked. People who do not have ADHD may take them to reduce weight or to boost their energy. They are more likely to be used for abuse. People with eating disorders may also utilize them to aid with their condition.
The NSDUH survey does not ask for specific brands or kinds, but rather if a person has ever used prescription ADHD stimulants in a non-medical manner. This could underestimate the amount of people who have used other substances than those prescribed for ADHD. Also, it doesn't capture information about motivation for the use of drugs that is essential to understand.
Some people with ADHD are able to reduce their use of non-medical stimulants by changing how they manage their time and work and making sure they make time for relaxation and family. Some people experience relief after learning about natural alternatives to medicines such as oligomeric prosanthocyanidins. They are biochemical compounds that can be found in plant extracts including pine bark, green tea and grape. Greenblatt has seen patients regain their ability to write after taking OPC supplements.
2. Ritalin
Ritalin (methylphenidate) is an stimulant for the central nervous system that is prescribed to treat attention-deficit disorder among children and adults. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that aid people to concentrate, focus and think clearly. The medication is usually taken orally, but it can be administered. In the wrong hands, this drug can result in severe physical and psychological dependence. Users of the drug are susceptible to a variety of problems, such as blood-borne illnesses like HIV Hepatitis B and C because of the insoluble fillers which can block small vessels. The use of this drug has also been associated with psychotic episodes.
Most ADHD medications help to reduce symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. This is done by changing the way neurotransmitters are utilized by the body. They can also improve concentration and focus, decrease fidgeting, and other distracting behaviors and increase the capacity to adhere to the plan or task. Doctors can prescribe a variety of medications to treat ADHD. They will consult with their patients to determine which dosage and timeframe is most suitable for them.
Side effects are common when stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD. They are typically minor, but may include stomach upsets, headaches and a rapid heartbeat; difficulty sleeping; dry mouth; and changes in blood pressure. Symptoms generally go away by themselves or after a couple of days as the body adapts to the medication. adult add medications develop tolerance to the drug which means they require a higher dose to achieve the same effect. This could lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms when the dose is suddenly reduced or stopped altogether.
When taking stimulants, it's important to tell your doctor about any other medicines you are taking, especially those that treat sleep disorders or depression because they may interact with this group of medications. You should also share a complete list of any foods, beverages and herbal remedies that you take. This information will help your doctor to select an appropriate medication that won't affect your current treatment.
3. Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, manufactured by humans, cause mild to severe neurodepression in the brain (central nervous systems) and sedation. They increase the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a neurotransmitter used by nerves in the brain to communicate. GABA can slow down brain activity and benzodiazepines are effective in treating seizures and anxiety.
The medications that fall under this category include alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) diazepam (Valium), and Clobazam (Onfi, Sympazane). These drugs can be highly addictive and cause breathing problems that could lead to a coma or even death. This is especially true if they are combined with alcohol or other depressants, such as opioid painkillers. If you stop taking them before they could also trigger severe withdrawal symptoms. Due to their potential for misuse, you should keep benzodiazepines in a locked cabinet and only use them as directed by your physician.
These medications are "off-label" which means they're not FDA approved to treat ADHD. However, studies have shown that they are effective for certain people who don't get relief from stimulants or don't take these drugs well. They don't cause or worsen the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome. They may be given to children as young as 6.
Be aware that benzodiazepines can increase suicidal thoughts or actions in a few teenagers, children and adults when they are receiving treatment or shortly after beginning treatment. Discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns or a family history of suicide. Tell your provider all medications you or your child is taking including vitamins and other over-the-counter supplements. Some medications can have dangerous adverse effects and can interact with benzodiazepines. Your provider will recommend the appropriate medication and treatment plan for your child or you. Follow the schedule and be patient -- it may take a while to see improvements. Some patients need to continue taking benzodiazepines for an extended period of time. Medications in this class are typically used in combination with other treatments to improve symptom relief. This is especially common for people who are not able to tolerate stimulants.
4. Atomoxetine
This medication is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It helps by increasing the natural brain chemical that helps control impulses and improve focus. It is prescribed as part the treatment program for ADHD. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with other medication. It is also beneficial for those suffering from co-morbid conditions such as anxiety or depression. Atomoxetine can be purchased as liquid or capsules and should be taken every day with a glass of water. Children and adolescents may experience mild side effects, such as a headache or abdominal pain. If you experience a more serious reaction like suicidal thoughts or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical care.
It can take up to two weeks for atomoxetine begin to work and it could be several months before the full effect becomes noticeable. It is typically prescribed to children at risk of stimulant abuse and adults with multiple comorbidities. According to a review the medication has been found to be particularly effective for people with the inattentive type of ADHD.
However, it's not effective for all patients with adolescent onset ADHD or those with an anxiety disorder or tics that are comorbid. Patients with a family history of pheochromocytoma or glaucoma (a tumor that affects the adrenal glands) are not advised to take this drug. Before taking atomoxetine, it is crucial to inform your doctor about any other health conditions you may be suffering from.
Nonstimulant drugs are a choice for people who cannot take stimulant drugs because of heart disease or glaucoma. According to the Child Mind Institute, these drugs alter the chemical balance in specific parts of the brain. These medications are approved for adolescents and children as young as 6. Some of these medications include clonidine ER (Kapvay) and guanfacine E.R. (Intuniv).
These medications can cause adverse effects, such as an increase in blood pressure and sinus tachycardia (irregular, fast heartbeat) or interfere with other medications your child is taking. These medications can also interact negatively with certain medicines used to treat anxiety and depression.