Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
The drugs treat ADHD by targeting the brain chemical that affects attention and impulse control. They're available in a variety of 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 responsible for attention. They're also available in long-acting versions that release medications throughout the day and help minimize ups and downs in symptoms.
Non-stimulant medicines
Many people take medications to improve their attention and control of impulses. These medications can be addictive, but they are the most efficient. If you feel that stimulants don't work or have unpleasant side effects, your physician might suggest switching to a medication that isn't stimulant. These drugs can help improve symptoms, but they take longer to kick in. These medications can also be more effective when paired with other treatments.
The two main categories of ADHD medication are stimulants and non-stimulant medications. The stimulants most frequently used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate and amphetamines. There are several different versions of these drugs, including immediate-release and long-acting versions. Instant-release stimulants can be taken as needed, and are usually taken before the start of the day. Long-acting stimulants can be taken each morning and typically last between six and 16 hours. The majority of people who use these medications combine long-acting medication with immediate-release medication in order to control their symptoms throughout the day.
There are two types of non-stimulant medications that are used to treat ADHD such as norepinephrine modulators and alpha agonists. Norepinephrine moderators include atomoxetine, (Stattera), and guanfacine (Tenex or Intuniv). The alpha agonists that are used to treat ADHD are clonidine (Catapres Kapvay, Catapres) and Guanfacine (Tenex and intuniv). A stimulant can be dangerous for adolescents with drug abuse problems or an history of substance abuse. Non-stimulant medication can be a good alternative for this population because they don't have the same risk of addiction or side effects.
Many people discover that their initial ADHD medication doesn't work or has undesirable side effects. It's crucial to talk to your doctor and test different medications if necessary. Your doctor will be able to tell you whether the medication you're taking is working by looking for specific side effects such as heart rate fluctuations, ringing ears, or a change in blood pressure. It's also an excellent idea to discuss the other supplements and medications that you or your child is taking whether they are prescription or over-the counter.
Antidepressants
Stimulant medications are the most popular kind of treatment for ADHD. They stimulate the central nervous system, which increases alertness and decreasing distraction. 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 tolerate these medications well, but there are some adverse effects. Some people experience a decrease of appetite or drowsiness. others develop an increased heartbeat or insomnia. People with a history or bipolar disorder or depression are more likely to suffer from psychosis when taking stimulant medication.
Certain stimulants can make people feel incredibly angry or aggressive at first, especially when they're taking them for the first time. If the symptoms persist you should consult their doctor about changing the dosage or trying another medication. The stimulants can also raise blood pressure, and high doses can lead to seizures in some people. The medications can also affect sexual performance, with some experiencing delayed ejaculation as well as a decreased desire to have sexual activity.
In addition, some antidepressants may increase the activity of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, and these drugs may affect the effectiveness of some ADHD medications. This could result in a loss of effectiveness, so it's important for those suffering from both conditions to discuss their treatment needs with their doctor.
Certain ADHD medications can negatively interact with anxiety or depression in adults and children. Those with both conditions should have an open discussion with their doctors and may be able to discover medications that treat all of their symptoms together.
Antidepressants are generally well-accepted by adolescents and teens however suicidal thoughts must be monitored closely. If there is a significant or persistent suicidal thoughts a medical professional should be immediately contacted. Call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.
Certain antidepressants can increase feelings of guilt and despair. This is particularly true for tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor). These medications are often prescribed for ADHD off-label, but can be helpful when other treatments have failed.
Blood pressure medications
The drugs that lower blood pressure can help in controlling ADHD symptoms, including problems with sleep and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres) and long-acting Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Atomoxetine (Atomoxetine) belong to a class of drugs known as alpha agonists. They are approved to treat high blood pressure, but have been used "off label" for a long time to treat ADHD. These medications improve sleep reduce tics, and increase attention. They can also lower blood pressure and heart rate making them more secure than stimulants.
It's unclear whether these medications will have a lasting effect on the development of brain cells in children and adolescents. Researchers also don't know whether they have an lasting impact on heart-related problems in these individuals, so some experts are skeptical of their use. These drugs can also increase the risk of having seizures in some individuals. The American Heart Association recommends that those with an history of stroke, heart disease or other cardiovascular problems have an evaluation of their heart before beginning them.
Stimulant ADHD medication can create a habit and can cause a rise in heart rate and blood pressure. It can also have an adverse effect on appetite and sleep. It's not safe for infants or children. It could have long-term negative effects on children's brains, which may cause addiction to drugs.
The FDA warns teens and adults with ADHD, who are suffering from anxiety or depression but have not been treated for it, to avoid stimulant drugs. These people need to seek psychosocial therapy. This is a form of therapy that teaches positive coping strategies and can help improve social interactions.
Some prescription ADHD medications can cause side effects such as stomach upset, headaches, and difficulty sleeping. If the side effects are severe, your doctor may lower your dose or switch you to a different medication. If you experience a serious side effect, such as hallucinations or heart palpitations call your doctor right away.
Even if they claim to be, over-the-counter supplements and medications are not effective in treating ADHD. Many supplements and vitamins have no scientific basis, and some may interact with certain medications. It's important to tell your doctor about all of the medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter ones.
Other medications
The majority of guidelines for clinical practice recommend stimulant drugs as the first choice for treatment for ADHD. But they don't work for all people, and there's evidence that non-stimulant medicines can be equally effective for certain people. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medications, and the clonidine ER and guanfacine is ER are available to children ages 6 to 17. These medications boost certain brain chemicals which improve the ability to focus, impulse control, and working memory.
In addition to these medicines doctors may prescribe other drugs to treat ADHD. They are usually antidepressants or other medicines that alter brain chemical. medication for adult add (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that helps some people suffering from ADHD and tetrahydrozoline-methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a different stimulant medication frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition.
These medications may be available in the form of tablets, capsules, liquid, or patches. It's important to study the labels carefully to make sure that you or your child are taking the right dose. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications or supplements, such as herbal remedies and prescription drugs. Some may interact with ADHD medication and cause undesirable side effects.
Natural treatments for ADHD can benefit a small number of people, but they don't have the same research basis as medications that have been 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. medication for adult adhd is another herbal supplement that people suggest for ADHD, but the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is no evidence to suggest that it can be used as treatment for ADHD.
Over-the-counter ADHD medication isn't a replacement for medical treatment. Talk to your doctor when you or your child is showing symptoms of the disorder. Consult your physician about the best treatment options if you or your child decide that a prescription medication is appropriate. He or she will consider the lifestyle of your family, any other medication your child is taking, as well as your medical history to determine the right medication.