ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants can help people suffering from ADHD control their impulsive behavior and focus. They can be either long- or short-acting and are prescribed by psychiatrists, paediatricians or neurologists (and doctors in certain situations).
Stimulants influence dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They are tightly regulated and can only prescribed by a physician.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a drug that belongs to the family of stimulants. It stimulates the activity of certain regions of the brain. It boosts levels of certain chemicals, such as dopamine and noradrenaline, which aid in controlling attention and behavior. Methylphenidate can be used to treat ADHD and the condition known as narcolepsy. It is also prescribed for depression in adults. However, it is not regulated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Methylphenidate is absorbed by the gut into the bloodstream rapidly and is effective within a matter of hours. It is available as a chewable or immediate-release tablet. The doctor will prescribe a formulation that is suitable for the patient's condition and the side effects.
The adverse effects of methylphenidate are typically mild and disappear over time, as the body becomes accustomed to the medication. Talk to your doctor if they persist. He can lower the dosage or even try a different medication. It is important to take this medication as prescribed and not exceed the recommended dose. This can reduce the chance for addiction or abuse. Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II drug by the US Drug Enforcement Administration, meaning it has a high potential for abuse. The stimulants can lead to dependence and withdrawal when not taken as prescribed.
It is important to inform the doctor that your child is suffering from heart issues, such as an irregular heartbeat or history of heart attack. Methylphenidate may increase the rate of heartbeat which is the reason why the doctor will examine their heart rate and blood pressure before they start treatment. Inform the doctor about any other medications your child takes for health reasons, such as herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements.
The doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often, as well any other precautions. Methylphenidate is typically taken twice in the day, along with a meal. Certain brands of methylphenidate with long-acting tablets (Quillichew ER; Cotempla XR -ODT; and Adhansia XR), contain aspartame. Aspartame is a source Phenylalanine and should not be consumed by people suffering from phenylketonuria.
It is essential to avoid alcohol and other drugs while taking this medication. Some people may find their appetite declines when they take methylphenidate. If your child is losing weight, try to encourage them to eat regularly and snacks. You may need to remind them to drink a lot of squash or water in order to stay well-hydrated.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine, available under the brand name Vyvanse, is a central nervous system stimulant that acts on chemicals in the brain and nerves. It enhances impulse control and concentration in adolescents, children and adults suffering from ADHD. It also treats binge eating disorder (BED) by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, and reducing instances of eating disorders that are uncontrolled.
Lisdexamfetamine belongs to the prodrug class that is a modified drug that is inactive until it's processed in the body. It has been proven to be effective and safety in both stimulant-naive patients as well as patients exposed to stimulants with ADHD. It is also believed to have a greater lasting effect than other stimulants and may have fewer rebound symptoms.
In a 12-week trial that was controlled by placebo, Adler et al27 found significant improvements in ADHD-RS-IV scores. They also noted that the majority of those who switched to placebo relapsed after 2 weeks.28 Additionally, Brams et al29 used an innovative design for an uncontrolled withdrawal study in which they followed 116 adults for 12 weeks after stopping the lisdexamfetamine treatment. They found that most of the patients who relapsed were not exposed to any other stimulants during the past two weeks.
Tell your doctor if you have any reactions you may have to this medication or other medications. Also, let your doctor know if you have high blood pressure, heart disease or any other heart-related issues. Certain stimulants can increase the risk of stroke heart attack, stroke, or sudden death in people with these conditions.
Lisdexamfetamine could be absorbed into breastmilk and cause harm to a nursing infant. It is not recommended to take this medication while breastfeeding. This medication may cause dizziness, shakiness or stomach upset in certain individuals. Lisdexamfetamine has not been approved for use by children less than six years of age. Lisdexamfetamine cannot be used by women who are nursing or pregnant. It is not recommended to stop taking this medication unless your physician tells you to stop even if you feel better. Your doctor will probably want to monitor your blood pressure and heart rate while you are taking this medication.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, is a nonstimulant that blocks the presynaptic receptors of norepinephrine. It has a high affinity for this transporter, but has a low affinity for other neurotransmitter receptors and transporters [115,136]. In multiple placebo-controlled studies, it improved inhibitory control in ADHD patients by inhibiting overactivation of the right inferior frontal cortex (Chamberlain et al. 2009). It was also shown to improve working memory and attention span in children suffering from ADHD. It is slow in the onset of action, and may take up to 12 weeks for the full effect to be observed. The dosage is based on weight and should be gradually increased. A daily dose of one hour is common. The drug's poor metabolizers cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) have greater exposure and slower elimination of atomoxetine, so it is recommended to conduct a pharmacogenetic test prior to prescribing atomoxetine to these individuals.
In a number of controlled studies it has been proven that it is effective in decreasing symptoms of ADHD. It is typically utilized as the first line treatment. It is generally safe and well-tolerated and does not increase the risk of suicidal behaviour. It isn't as efficient in reducing anxiety and tics as stimulants, and does not seem reduce sleep disorders. However it has been proven to increase aggression in some children. Atomoxetine interacts more with the antidepressant the fluoxetine. Therefore, they should not be taken together.
Two other drugs that are frequently prescribed as a first-line treatment option for ADHD are Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). These drugs were originally created to reduce high pressure in adults. They are referred to as alpha agonists and work by stimulating certain receptors in the brain to release the neurotransmitter neopinephrine which reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. adhd medication pregnancy take a while to take effect and it could take up to four weeks in the case of many children before they can see any benefit. Additionally, they are not recommended for use with MAOIs (e.g. Phenelzine is not recommended due to the risk of serious and possibly fatal adverse events, such as extreme hypothermia and rigidity, myoclonus and autonomic instabilities.
Other Stimulants
Stimulants are medications that boost activity in the central nervous system. They include a wide variety of drugs, some legal and others illegal. They can be used to enhance performance, remain alert and alert, and treat certain medical conditions such as ADHD or narcolepsy, as well as depression. Examples of stimulants prescribed by a doctor are amphetamines and methylphenidate. The term"stimulant" can also be used to describe nonprescription drugs such as diet pills and caffeine. They are used for many reasons, but they can also be dangerous when combined with certain foods or medications.
They don't create a habit in the doses used to treat those suffering from ADHD However, they may have adverse effects. They can cause some people to feel nervous or jittery. They can raise blood pressure and heart rate and can cause stomach upset, and can lead to difficulty sleeping.
Some teenagers and children who take stimulants may have tics or repeated sounds or movements, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. They could also experience a minor delay in growth.
A doctor will determine the best stimulant for your child or you. They will take into consideration other aspects, like age, weight and if your child or you have any allergies. The doctor will then prescribe medication. Always follow the doctor's prescriptions. Always review the Medication Guide that is included with your prescription.
adhd medication pregnancy for treating ADHD is generally medication. This isn't the only option, but it is the most commonly used. Psychosocial interventions such as family therapy and behavior modification are also available to help people of all ages with ADHD.
Patients who are prescribed ADHD medication should have their risk of misuse and abuse assessed and advised not to give their medication to others. Additionally they should be urged to store any medication they do not use in a secure location and dispose of them in a safe manner. Health professionals must also frequently check and examine patients for signs of abuse, misuse or addiction. The FDA has mandated that more consistent information be provided on drug labeling to help educate families and patients about the dangers of these drugs.