ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are drugs that help those suffering from ADHD focus and control their impulsive behaviour. They are either short-acting or long-acting and are prescribed by neurologists, paediatricians or psychiatrists (and in some cases, GPs).
Stimulants influence dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. They are controlled tightly and are only prescribed by a doctor.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is part of the stimulant family and enhances brain activity. It increases levels of certain chemicals, such as dopamine and noradrenaline. These help to regulate attention and behaviour. Methylphenidate can be used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, among other conditions. It is also prescribed to treat depression in adults, but this is not endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Methylphenidate is absorbed into the bloodstream quickly from the gut and starts working within hours. It is available as an immediate-release tablet or an extended-release chewable capsule or tablet. The doctor will recommend the most appropriate dosage based on the individual's symptoms and risk of side effects.
Side effects of methylphenidate tend to be minor and go disappear over time as the body adjusts to the drug. If they continue to bother you, talk to your doctor who will lower the dosage or recommend an alternative medication. It is crucial to take the medication exactly as directed. Don't exceed the recommended dosage. This can reduce the chance for addiction or abuse. Methylphenidate is categorized as a Schedule II drug by the US Drug Enforcement Administration, which means it has a significant risk of abuse. The stimulants can create dependence and withdrawal if not used as directed.
Inform your doctor if your child is suffering from heart issues. adhd and medication could be due to irregular heartbeats, or a history heart attack. Methylphenidate can increase the rate of heartbeat which is the reason why the doctor will examine their heart rate and blood pressure before starting treatment. Discuss with the doctor any other medications your child takes such as herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements.
The doctor will advise you how much medicine to take and how often, along with any other precautions. Methylphenidate is usually taken twice in the day, along with a meal. Certain brands of chewable methylphenidate tablets with a long-acting action (Quillichew ER, Cotempla XR-ODT and Adhansia XR) contain aspartame, which is a source of phenylalanine, and is not recommended for people suffering from phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that requires a low-protein diet to prevent severe intellectual disability).
It's important to avoid drinking alcohol or other substances when taking this medication. Some people may notice that their appetite decreases while taking methylphenidate. If your child is losing weight, try to encourage them to eat regularly and snacks. They may also need to drink lots of squash or water to stay hydrated.
More suggestions which is sold under the brand name Vyvanse, is a central nervous system stimulant that affects the chemical activity of the brain and nerves. It improves concentration and impulse control in adolescents, children and adults with ADHD. It treats binge-eating disorder (BED) as well by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This decreases the amount of food that is consumed.
Lisdexamfetamine is a member of the prodrug class which is a modified medication that is inactive until transformed in the body. It has been proven to be effective and safety in both stimulant-naive patients and stimulant exposed patients with ADHD. It is also believed to have a more lasting effect than other stimulants and may have less rebound symptoms.
In a 12-week placebo-controlled trial, Adler et al27 found significant improvements in the scores of ADHD-RS-IV. They also reported that most of patients who changed to placebo had a relapse within two weeks.28 Additionally, Brams et al29 used a novel design for an uncontrolled withdrawal study in which they followed 116 adult patients for 12 weeks after stopping treatment with lisdexamfetamine. They discovered that the majority of patients who relapsed weren't exposed to any other stimulants during the two weeks preceding.
Tell your doctor if there are any allergies you might have to this medication or any other medication. Also, let your doctor know if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or any other heart problems. Stimulants may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack or sudden death among people suffering from these conditions.
Lisdexamfetamine can be absorbed into breast milk and harm a nursing baby. It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication. This medication may cause dizziness, shakiness, or stomach upset in certain people. Lisdexamfetamine is not approved for use by children less than six years old. Lisdexamfetamine is not suitable for women who are pregnant or nursing. Even if you feel better, you should not stop taking the medication unless your doctor tells you. While you are taking this medication the doctor will check your blood pressure and pulse rate.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a non-stimulant that acts by blocking the presynaptic neuronal norepinephrine transporter. It is highly specific for this transporter and a weak affinity for other neurotransmitter transporters or receptors [115,136and 136. In a variety of placebo-controlled studies it enhanced inhibition control in ADHD patients by reducing overactivation of the right inferior frontal cortex (Chamberlain and colleagues., 2009). It was also shown to improve attention span and working memory in children suffering from ADHD. It has a slow onset of action, and it could take up to 12 weeks for its full effect to be seen. The dosage is determined by weight and should be increased gradually. A daily dose of once is common. A poor metabolizer of drug cytochrome P4502D6 (CYP2D6) has a higher exposure and a slow elimination of the drug atomoxetine. Pharmacogenetic testing should be conducted prior to prescribing atomoxetine for these individuals.
In several controlled studies it has been proven that it can be effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD. It is often used as the first-line treatment. It is generally safe and well tolerated and does not increase the risk of suicidal behaviors. It's not as efficient as stimulants in reducing tics and anxiety and does not seem to decrease sleep issues, but it has been proven to reduce aggression in children. Atomoxetine is more compatible with the antidepressant, fluoxetine. Therefore it is recommended that they not be taken in conjunction.
Clonidine (Catapres) and Guanfacine are two other medications that are available as treatments of first-line for ADHD. These drugs were initially developed to lower blood pressure in adults. These drugs are known as alpha agonists. They operate by stimulating receptors within the brain to release norepinephrine neurotransmitter which can reduce the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications take a while to work and it could take up to four weeks in the case of many children before they see any benefits. Additionally they are not recommended for use with MAOIs (e.g. phenelzine) due to the risk of serious and potentially fatal adverse reactions, such as severe hypothermia, rigidity, myoclonus and autonomic instability extreme agitation and disorientation, and delirium.
Other Stimulants
Stimulants are medications that boost activity in the central nervous system. They encompass a range of substances that are legal and illegal. They can be used for a number of purposes, such as performance enhancement, to stay alert and awake, and to treat certain medical conditions, such as ADHD, narcolepsy, and depression. Examples of prescription stimulants are amphetamines and methylphenidate. The term stimulant is also used to refer to non-prescription drugs such as caffeine and diet pills. These are utilized for a variety of reasons, but they can be harmful when used in conjunction with certain foods or medications.
They don't create a habit in the doses prescribed for people with ADHD However, they may have adverse effects. They can make people feel anxious or nervous. They can cause a tense stomach and elevate blood pressure.
Children and teens who take stimulants may experience antics or repetitive movements or sounds, such as eye blinking and throat clearing. They could also have a minor growth delay.
A doctor will determine the best stimulant for you or your child. They will consider other factors, such as age, weight, and whether you or your child suffer from any allergies. The doctor will then prescribe medications. Always follow the instructions of your doctor. Always go through the Medication Guide that is included with your prescription.
Medicines aren't the only way to improve symptoms of ADHD however they are usually the first treatment option. Psychosocial interventions like behavior modification and family therapy are also available to help people of all ages who suffer from ADHD.
People who are prescribed ADHD medication should be assessed for their risk of misuse and abuse evaluated and advised not to share their medication with anyone else. They should also be urged to keep unused medication locked away and properly disposed of. Health professionals should regularly assess and check patients for signs of abuse, misuse or addiction. The FDA has demanded that more consistent information be included on the labeling of drugs to help inform patients and their families about these serious dangers.