adhd in adults medication - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant drugs are the most popular ADHD treatment, because they are the most researched and have the fastest-acting effects. But they're not for everyone.
These medications boost signaling between nerves and the regions of the brain to lessen symptoms of ADHD. They can also trigger negative side effects, such as the loss of appetite or changes in blood pressure or heart rate.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are known for increasing the duration of attention span, reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity and increasing focus and discipline. They are also known for raising heart rate and blood pressure which could be harmful in some people. Stimulants are used for both medical and non-medical reasons, including recreational drugs, weight loss aids and illicit drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates are the two most popular stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. Both are available in different forms including pills, liquids and patches on the skin. Amphetamines, which are the oldest and most commonly used of these medications, are now less prescribed. These medications work by altering the way that neurotransmitters, receptors and other brain chemicals are used to decrease ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulant medications fall into the first-line treatment category, although some doctors may prescribe them as a second-line treatment in conjunction with other treatments. Stimulants provide rapid symptom relief that can be felt within a few hours after having taken them. However, it can take several weeks of continuous use for these medications to be effective.
These drugs are available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. This flexibility allows for you to modify your medication intake to fit your needs. The immediate-release medications start working immediately after you swallow them. This is a great option for situations where you want to treat symptoms quickly, such as during a test, or if you're involved in a sports event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medications are formulated to release their active ingredients over a prolonged duration, typically throughout the day. This allows you to maintain a constant level of medication in your system, which can help increase your adherence and overall compliance.
If you follow the prescriptions of your doctor and refrain from taking any other medications or substances which are in a relationship with these medications, they're generally safe. They're mostly controlled substances because of their potential for abuse, which is why you will have to get an appointment with your doctor prior to starting these medications.
The medications that aren't classified as stimulants include the more recent atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both of these drugs work by blocking the reabsorption of norepinephrine a chemical in the brain. They're effective for decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, but they don't help improve concentration as as stimulants do.
Always discuss your options with your doctor. Each medication can have its own side effects that may affect people differently. It is essential to be honest and honest about your feelings about the medication with your doctor, so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Talk to your doctor in the event that you are planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding in the future, as certain medications can pass through the breast milk. Consult your doctor if any other health issues, such as heart problems, can affect the effectiveness of these medications.