Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
Medicines treat ADHD by targeting brain chemicals that influence the ability to focus and impulse control. adhd medications for adults in various forms including tablets that can be swallowed or chewed to patches and liquids.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate, which is also known under the brand names Ritalin or Concerta stimulate the activity in the brain areas that regulate attention. There are also longer-acting versions of these medications that release drugs continuously throughout the day, helping reduce symptoms.
Non-stimulant medications
Many people use medications to boost their attention and control of impulses. These medications may be addictive however they are the most effective. If your doctor thinks that stimulants aren't effective or have unpleasant side effects, they could suggest switching to non-stimulant medications. These drugs require longer to work, but can improve symptoms. These medications are also more effective when they are combined with other treatments.
The two main categories of ADHD medications are stimulants and non-stimulant medicines. The stimulants most frequently used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidate. These medications are available in different forms that include immediate-release versions as well as long-acting ones. Instant-release stimulants can be taken when needed, and are usually taken before the start of the day. Long-acting stimulants are usually taken once a day in the morning. They last between six and sixteen hours. Most people who use these drugs take a combination of immediate-release and long-acting medication to control their symptoms throughout the day.
There are two types of non-stimulant drugs used to treat ADHD: norepinephrine modulators and alpha agonists. Norepinephrine moderators include atomoxetine, (Stattera), and guanfacine (Tenex or Intuniv). Clonidine (Catapres Kapvay), and Guanfacine Tenex (Intuniv) are alpha agonists used to treat ADHD. Teenagers who suffer from substance abuse issues or addiction to drugs could be at risk of being affected by stimulant drugs. Non-stimulant medications can be a good alternative for this population since they don't carry the same risk of addiction or side effects.
Many people find that their initial ADHD medication isn't effective or causes troublesome adverse side effects. It is important to speak with your doctor about this and test new medications if you need to. Your doctor can help you figure out the extent to which your current medication is causing an effect by looking for specific side effects such as heart rate fluctuations or ringing in the ear or an increase in blood pressure. It is also important to discuss any other medications or supplements that your child or you are taking, regardless of whether they are prescribed or available over the prescription.
Antidepressants
Stimulant medication is the most popular type of treatment for ADHD. They activate the central nervous system, increasing alertness and reducing distractibility. They also help improve concentration, and they have the added benefit of helping people be more in control of their behavior and emotions. Most people can tolerate these medications well, however there are some side effects. Some people experience a decrease of appetite or drowsiness. others experience an increased heart rate or sleepiness. People with a history or depression or bipolar disorders are more likely to develop psychosis while taking stimulant medications.
Certain stimulant medications can make people feel angry or aggressive, particularly when they first begin to take the drug. If these symptoms continue, patients should consult their physician to alter the dosage or try another medication. The stimulants can also raise blood pressure, and high doses of the drug may lead to seizures in some people. Some sufferers may experience a decrease in sexual desire or delayed ejaculation while taking the medication.
Certain antidepressants, such as serotonin-boosting medications, can hinder the effectiveness of certain ADHD medication. This can lead to the loss of effectiveness and therefore it is essential for those suffering from both ailments to discuss their needs for medication with their physicians.
Certain ADHD medications can adversely interact with depression or anxiety in children and adults. Anyone suffering from both ailments should be open to discussion with their doctors as they might be able to discover medications that treat all of their symptoms together.
Antidepressants are well-tolerated by adolescents and teens, but suicidal thoughts should be monitored closely. If your thoughts of suicide are intense or persistent, you should seek medical attention immediately. Contact 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.
Certain antidepressants can increase feelings of guilt and despair. This is especially true of tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor). These drugs are typically prescribed off-label to treat ADHD, but they can be helpful in treating ADHD when other treatments have failed.
Blood pressure medication
The medications that lower blood pressure can help in controlling ADHD symptoms, including anxiety and sleep issues. Clonidine (Catapres) Guanfacine long-acting (Intuniv), and atomoxetine(Atomoxetine) belong to a class of drugs known as alpha agonists. These drugs are approved for treating high blood pressure, however they have been used to treat ADHD "off label" since many years. These medications help to sleep better, decrease tics and improve attention. They also decrease heart rate and blood-pressure, making them safer than stimulants.
It's not clear whether these drugs affect the long-term development of brain cells in children and teenagers. Researchers are also unsure if they have a lasting impact on heart-related problems in these individuals, so some experts are wary of their use. Certain individuals may be at increased risk of seizures when taking these medications. The American Heart Association recommends people with a past of heart disease, stroke or other cardiovascular problems to have a cardiac assessment prior to starting these medicines.
Stimulant ADHD medications can be habit-forming, and they can increase blood pressure and heart rate. It can also have negative effects on appetite and sleep. It's not safe for children or infants. It could also have negative effects on the brains of children, which could result in drug abuse.
The FDA warns teens and adults with ADHD, who are suffering from anxiety or depression but haven't been treated for it, to avoid stimulant drugs. These people should consider psychosocial treatment, which involves behavioral therapy to teach positive coping skills and improve social interactions.
Most prescription ADHD medicines can trigger side effects, such as headaches, stomach upsets and trouble sleeping. If the adverse effects are severe your doctor might reduce the dosage or switch you to a different drug. If you suffer from a serious side effect like hallucinations or heart palpitations consult your physician immediately.
Even if they claim they do that they are, most over-the-counter medications and supplements aren't effective in treating ADHD. Many vitamins and supplements have no scientific basis and may interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all supplements and medicines you take including those that are sold over-the-counter.
Other medicines
The use of stimulants is considered to be one of the best treatment options for ADHD according to the majority of guidelines for clinical practice. Non-stimulant medications are equally effective in some cases. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medications, and Guanfacine ER and Clonidine is ER are available to children between the ages of 6 and 17. These drugs increase certain brain chemicals that improve attention span, impulse control, and working memory.
In addition to these drugs, many doctors prescribe other medications to treat ADHD. Most often, these are antidepressants, or other medications that affect brain chemicals. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that can help people suffering from ADHD and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a different stimulant medication often used off-label to treat the condition.
The medications are available in capsules, liquids, patches, or tablets. It's important to study the labels carefully to make sure you or your child is taking the right dose. Also, make sure to inform your doctor of any other supplements or medications you take, including over-the-counter medicines and herbal remedies. Certain supplements can interact with ADHD medications and trigger unwanted adverse effects.
Natural remedies for ADHD can benefit a small number of people however they do not have the same scientific backing as medications 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 people suggest for ADHD but the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is no evidence to suggest that it works as treatment.
Over-the-counter ADHD medication is not an alternative to medical treatment. If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of the disorder, talk to your doctor about the medications. Then, if you decide that prescription medication is right for you or your child talk to your doctor about the best treatment options. He or she will consider the lifestyle of your family and any other medications that you or your child taking, as well as your medical history, to find the best medication.