Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
The medications treat ADHD by targeting brain chemicals that affects attention and impulse control. They are available in a variety of forms including tablets that can be chewed or swallowed to liquids and patches.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate, also known by the brand names Ritalin or Concerta boost the activity in the brain areas that control attention. There are also long-acting versions of these drugs that release medications continuously throughout the day, helping minimize symptoms.
Non-stimulant drugs
Many people take medication to improve their attention and impulse control. These drugs can be addictive, but they are the most effective. If you feel that stimulants don't work for you or have unpleasant side effects, your doctor might suggest switching to a non-stimulant medication. These drugs can help improve symptoms, but they take longer to start working. They may also work better when combined with other treatment options.
Stimulants and non-stimulant medications are the two primary types of ADHD medications. Amphétamines as well as methylphenidate are the stimulants most commonly used in treating ADHD. These medications are available in various forms that include immediate-release versions as well as long-acting ones. Immediate-release stimulants are taken whenever required, and are typically taken at the start of the day. Long-acting stimulants are taken once every morning and last between six and 16 hours. The majority of people who take these medications combine long-acting medication with immediate-release medications to manage their symptoms throughout the day.
Alpha antagonists and norepinephrine moderators are both non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat ADHD. Norepinephrine moderators include atomoxetine, (Stattera) and guanfacine (Tenex or Intuniv). Clonidine (Catapres Kapvay), and guanfacine Tenex (Intuniv) are alpha agonists for treating ADHD. Teenagers with substance abuse issues or addiction to drugs could be at risk of taking stimulant medication. Non-stimulant medication can be a good alternative for this population since they don't have the same potential for addiction or dangerous side effects.
Many people discover that their first ADHD medication doesn't work or has unpleasant adverse effects. It is important to speak to your doctor and try various medications if needed. Your doctor will be able to tell you if the medication you are taking is effective by looking for specific side effects like heart rate fluctuations or ringing in the ears, or a change in blood pressure. It's also recommended to talk about any other supplements or medications you or your child are taking whether they are prescription or over-the counter.
Antidepressants
Stimulant drugs are the most popular kind of medication used to treat ADHD. They activate the central nervous system that increase alertness and decrease distraction. They also help improve concentration, and have the added benefit of helping people feel more at ease with their moods and behaviors. Most people tolerate these medications well, but there are some side effects. Some people experience a decrease of appetite or drowsiness. others develop an increased heartbeat or insomnia. People who have a history of depression or bipolar disorders are more likely to suffer from psychosis when taking stimulant medication.
Some stimulant drugs can make people feel incredibly angered or even violent initially, particularly when they are taking them for the first time. If these symptoms continue patients should talk to their physician to alter the dosage or consider an alternative medication. The stimulants can also raise blood pressure and trigger seizures in certain individuals. The drugs can also affect sexual function, with some people experiencing delayed ejaculation as well as a decreased desire to have sexual intimacy.
Some antidepressants, including serotonin-boosting drugs, can also affect the effectiveness of some ADHD medication. adhd depression medication could result in an impairment in effectiveness which is why it is crucial for those suffering from both conditions to discuss their medication needs with their physicians.
Certain ADHD medications can interact negatively with anxiety or depression in both children and adults. People with both conditions should have an open discussion with their physician, as they might be able find medications that address all of their symptoms together.
Antidepressants are generally well-accepted by adolescents and teens however, they should be monitored for suicidal thoughts. If there is a significant or persistent suicidal ideas, a medical professional should be contacted immediately. Contact 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.
Certain antidepressants can trigger feelings of guilt, agitation, and hopelessness. This is particularly the case with tricyclics, such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl or Pamelor). These medications are usually prescribed off-label to treat ADHD however they can be helpful in treating ADHD when other treatments have been unsuccessful.
Blood pressure medication
The use of medications that lower blood pressure can 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 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 improve sleep reduce tics, and increase the focus of attention. They also decrease heart rate and blood-pressure, making them safer than stimulants.
It's not known if these drugs affect the long-term development of brain cells in adolescents and children. Researchers aren't sure if they have a lasting impact on heart-related issues in these individuals, so certain experts are cautious about their use. Certain individuals may be at a higher risk of seizures when they are taking these drugs. The American Heart Association recommends people who have a history of stroke, heart disease or other cardiovascular problems to have a heart exam prior to taking these medicines.
Stimulant ADHD medications can become habit-forming and increase blood pressure and heart rate. It also has a negative impact on sleep and appetite. It's also not safe for infants or children. It can also have negative long-term effects on youngsters' brains, which may lead to drug abuse.
The FDA warns teens and adults with ADHD who suffer from anxiety or depression, but haven't been treated with stimulant medication, to stay clear of them. They should think about psychosocial treatment, which involves counseling for behavior to teach positive coping skills and improve social interactions.
Some prescription ADHD medications can cause negative side effects, such as headaches, stomach upset and trouble sleeping. If the side effects are severe, your doctor may decrease your dosage or switch to a different medication. If you experience a serious side effect, such as hallucinations or heart palpitations, contact your doctor immediately.
Even if they claim it, over-the-counter supplements and medications aren't effective in treating ADHD. A lot of vitamins and supplements aren't backed by scientific evidence and may even interact with certain medications. Discuss with your doctor all supplements and medications you take including those that are sold over-the-counter.
Other medications
The majority of guidelines for clinical practice recommend stimulant medication as the first choice of treatment for ADHD. But they don't work for all people, and there's evidence that non-stimulant drugs are equally effective for some people. FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medication includes viloxazine as well as Atomoxetine, both of which are available in the form of Qelbree. Clonidine ER or guanfacine may be prescribed for children 6-17 years old. These drugs increase certain brain chemicals that enhance attention span as well as impulse control and working memory.
Many doctors prescribe additional medications to treat ADHD in addition to these drugs. These are typically antidepressants or other drugs that alter brain chemicals. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant which can help people suffering from ADHD, and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a stimulant drug often used off-label to treat the condition.
These medications are available in capsules or liquids, patches or tablets. You should read the label carefully to ensure that you or your child is taking the right dosage. Also, be sure to inform your doctor of any other supplements or medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal remedies. Some can interact with ADHD medication and cause undesirable adverse effects.
Natural treatments for ADHD can benefit a small number of people, but they don't have the same scientific support as the medications 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 that some recommend for ADHD. However, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there isn't enough evidence to support its effectiveness.
Over-the-counter ADHD medication isn't a replacement for medical attention. Talk to your doctor if you or your child displays symptoms of the disorder. Consult your physician about the best treatment options if you or your child decide that prescription medication is the best option. The doctor will take into consideration the lifestyle of your family, any other medications your child or you takes, and your medical history to determine the best medication for you.