Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
The drugs treat ADHD by targeting the brain chemical that affects the ability to focus and impulse control. They are available in various forms, from tablets that can be chewed or swallowed to patches and liquids.
Stimulants, like methylphenidate (brand names Ritalin and Concerta), boost activity in areas of the brain that control attention. There are also long-acting versions of these drugs that release medications continuously throughout the day, helping lessen symptoms.
Non-stimulant medications
Many people take medication to enhance their attention and impulse control. The most effective drugs are stimulants that boost the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine However, these drugs also are also prone to becoming addictive. If your doctor feels that stimulants aren't effective or have unpleasant negative side effects, they might recommend switching to non-stimulant medication. These medications can help alleviate symptoms, but they will take longer to start working. They could also work better when combined with other treatment methods.
The two main categories of ADHD medications are stimulants and non-stimulant medications. The stimulants that are most frequently used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidate. There are many different types of these medications including immediate-release and longer-acting versions. Immediate-release stimulants are taken when needed, and are usually taken at the start of the day. Long-acting stimulants can be taken every day in the morning. They last from six to sixteen hours. The majority of people who take these drugs mix long-acting medication with immediate-release medications to control their symptoms throughout the day.
There are two kinds of non-stimulant medications used to treat ADHD: norepinephrine modulators and alpha agonists. Norepinephrine modulators include atomoxetine (Stattera) and guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). The alpha agonists that are used to treat ADHD are clonidine (Catapres Kapvay, Catapres) and Guanfacine (Tenex and intuniv). Teenagers with substance abuse issues or addiction issues could be at risk of taking stimulant medication. Non-stimulant medications could be a viable alternative for this particular group since it doesn't have the risk of addiction or adverse effects.
Many people discover that their first ADHD medication doesn't work or has undesirable side effects. It's important that you speak to your doctor and try different medications if you need to. Your doctor can tell you whether the medication you're taking is working by checking for specific side effects like heart rate changes or ringing in the ears, or a change in your blood pressure. It is also important to discuss any other supplements or medications that you or your child are taking, regardless of whether they are prescribed or over the counter.
Antidepressants
The most frequently used medication to treat ADHD is stimulant medications. They stimulate the central nervous systems, increasing alertness and decreasing distraction. They also aid in improving your focus and have the added benefit of being able help you feel more in control of your mood and behavior. These medications are typically well-tolerated by the majority of people, however there are some adverse 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 bipolar or depression disorder are at a higher risk of developing psychosis when taking stimulant medication.
Some stimulant medications can cause people to feel unusually angry or aggressive, especially when they first begin taking the medication. If these symptoms persist the patient should consult their physician to alter the dosage or try an alternative medication. The stimulants can also raise blood pressure, and higher doses of the drug can lead to seizures in some individuals. Some people may experience a reduction in sexual desire or delayed ejaculation after taking the medication.
In addition, some antidepressants may increase the activity of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, and these medications can affect the effectiveness of some ADHD medication. This could lead to a loss of effectiveness, therefore it is essential that those suffering from both conditions discuss their treatment requirements with their doctor.
Many people, including children, who suffer from ADHD also suffer from depression or anxiety and these disorders can be negatively impacted by certain ADHD medications. It is crucial to discuss both of these issues with your doctor, as you might be able to find a medication that addresses all your symptoms.
Antidepressants are well-tolerated by adolescents and teens However, suicidal thoughts must be closely monitored. In cases of severe or persistent suicidal thoughts, a medical professional should be immediately contacted. This can be done by calling 911 or by contacting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Certain antidepressants can cause feelings of guilt and hopelessness. This is especially true for tricyclics such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl or Pamelor). These drugs are typically prescribed for ADHD off-label, but they can be helpful when other treatments have not worked.
Blood pressure medications
The medications that reduce blood pressure can help in controlling ADHD symptoms, like sleep problems and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres), long-acting Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Atomoxetine (Atomoxetine) belong to the group of medications called alpha agonists, which are approved to treat high blood pressure, but have been employed "off label" for many years to treat ADHD. These medications reduce tics, improve sleep and boost the level of attention. They also can cause a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate and are therefore safer to take than stimulants.
It isn't clear if these drugs have a long-term impact on the development of brain cells among children and adolescents. Researchers are also unsure whether they will have a long-lasting impact on heart-related issues in these people, and certain experts are cautious about their use. These medications can also increase the risk of having seizures in certain people. The American Heart Association recommends that people with an history of heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular issues undergo a cardiac evaluation before starting them.
Stimulant ADHD medication is habit-forming and can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can also have negative effects on sleep and appetite. It's not safe for babies or young children. It can have long-term negative effects on children's brains that could cause addiction to drugs.
The FDA warns teens and adults with ADHD who suffer from anxiety or depression but haven't been treated for it, to avoid stimulant drugs. These people should consider psychosocial treatment, which entails counseling for behavior to teach positive strategies for coping and improve social interactions.
The majority of prescription ADHD medications can cause adverse effects, including headaches, stomach upsets and trouble sleeping. If side effects are severe, a doctor might reduce your dosage or switch to a different medication. If you have any serious side effects like heart palpitations or hallucinations call your doctor immediately.
The over-the-counter medicines and supplements aren't effective in treating ADHD even though they claim to do so. Many vitamins and supplements do not have a scientific basis and may interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all supplements and medications you use including those sold over-the-counter.
Other medicines
Most clinical guidelines recommend stimulant medications as the first choice for treatment for ADHD. But they're not for all people, and there's evidence that non-stimulant drugs can be equally effective for certain people. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medication, as are Guanfacine ER and Clonidine is ER are available to children between the ages of 6 and 17. These drugs increase certain brain chemicals that enhance concentration as well as impulse control and working memory.
In addition to these medications, many doctors prescribe other treatments for ADHD. These are typically antidepressants or other drugs that alter brain chemicals. 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.
These medications are available in capsules, liquids, patches, or tablets. You should take the time to read the label thoroughly to ensure that you or your child are taking the right dosage. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or supplements, such as herbal remedies and over-the-counter drugs. Some medications can cause unwanted side effects and interact with ADHD medications.
Natural treatments for ADHD may help only a few people however they don't have the same research basis as medications that have been that are approved by the FDA. 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 some people suggest for ADHD. However, adhd medications uk for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is little evidence to support its efficacy.
Over-the-counter ADHD medications aren't a substitute for medical attention. Speak to your doctor when you or your child exhibits symptoms of the disorder. Then, if you decide that a prescription medication is appropriate for you or your child, ask your doctor about the best treatment options. He or she will consider your family's lifestyle, any other medication your child uses, as well as your medical history to find the best medication for you.