Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
The medications are used to treat ADHD by targeting brain chemicals that affect the ability to focus and impulse control. They're available in various forms, from tablets that can be swallowed or chewed to patches and liquids.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate, also known by the brand names Ritalin or Concerta, increase activity in brain areas that regulate attention. They're also available in long-acting versions that release medications throughout the day to minimize ups and downs in symptoms.
Non-stimulant medicines
Many people take medications to improve their attention and impulse control. These drugs are addictive but they are also the most efficient. If you feel that stimulants don't work or have undesirable adverse effects, your doctor may suggest switching to a non-stimulant drug. These medications are more difficult to use but can alleviate symptoms. medication for adhd can also be more effective when paired with other treatments.
The two main categories of ADHD medication are stimulants and non-stimulant medications. Amphétamines and methylphenidate are two of the stimulants most commonly utilized in the treatment of ADHD. These drugs come in a variety of forms including immediate-release ones and long-acting ones. Immediate-release stimulants may be taken whenever needed and are usually taken at the beginning of the day. Long-acting stimulants can be taken once a day in the morning. They last anywhere between six and sixteen hours. The majority of people who use these drugs combine long-acting medications with immediate-release medications to control their symptoms throughout the day.
Alpha antagonists and norepinephrine moderators are both non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat ADHD. Norepinephrine modulators include atomoxetine (Stattera) and Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). The alpha agonists that are used to treat ADHD are clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) and guanfacine (Tenex, intuniv). Teenagers with substance abuse issues or addiction to drugs could be at risk of being affected by stimulant drugs. Non-stimulant medication are a viable alternative for this population since they don't have the same potential for addiction or dangerous side effects.
Many people find that their first ADHD medication doesn't work or has unpleasant side effects. It is important to speak with your doctor about this and to try new medications as needed. Your doctor can tell whether the medication you're taking is working by looking for specific side effects like heart rate fluctuations as well as ringing in your ears or a change in blood pressure. It's also a good idea to discuss any other supplements or medications you or your child is taking in addition to prescription or over-the-counter.
Antidepressants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulant medication. They activate the central nervous system which increase alertness and reduce distraction. They can also improve concentration, and have the added benefit of helping people feel more at ease with their emotions and behaviors. These medications are typically well-tolerated by the majority of people, however there are some adverse effects. Some sufferers experience a reduction of appetite or drowsiness while others develop an increased heartbeat or sleepiness. People who have a history of depression or bipolar disorders are more likely to suffer from psychosis when taking stimulant medication.
Certain stimulant medications can cause people to feel angry or aggressive, especially when they first begin taking the medication. If the symptoms persist you should consult their doctor about adjusting the dosage or trying an alternative medication. The stimulants can also raise blood pressure, and high doses can cause seizures in some individuals. Some sufferers may experience a decrease in sexual desire and delayed ejaculation after taking the drugs.
Additionally, certain antidepressants can boost the activity of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin, and these medications can affect the effectiveness of some ADHD medications. This could result in the loss of effectiveness, which is why it's crucial that people with both conditions discuss their requirements with their physician.
Many people, including children, who suffer from ADHD are also suffering from depression or anxiety, and these conditions can interact negatively with certain ADHD medications. Those with both ailments should be open to discussion with their doctor as they might be able to discover medications that treat all of their symptoms together.
Antidepressants are generally well-accepted by teens and teenagers however they should be monitored for suicidal thoughts. In the event of extreme or persistent suicidal thoughts, a medical professional should be contacted immediately. This is done by calling 911 or by contacting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Certain antidepressants can cause feelings of guilt, agitation, and despair. This is especially true for tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor). These medications are often prescribed for ADHD off-label, but can be beneficial if other treatments have not worked.
Blood pressure medications
The drugs that lower blood pressure may aid in controlling ADHD symptoms, including problems with sleep and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres) and long-acting guanfacine (Intuniv) and Atomoxetine (Atomoxetine) belong to a group of drugs called alpha agonists, which are approved to treat high blood pressure, but have been employed "off label" for a long time to treat ADHD. These drugs reduce the tics as well as improve sleep and concentration. They can also trigger a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate which is why they are more secure as opposed to stimulants.
It's not clear if these medications have a long-term impact on the development of brain cells in children and teens. Researchers also don't know whether they have an lasting impact on heart-related issues in these people, which is why some experts are wary of their use. These drugs can also increase the risk of having seizures in some individuals. The American Heart Association recommends people with a past of stroke, heart disease or other cardiovascular problems to have a heart exam prior to taking these medicines.
Stimulant ADHD medication can cause habit-forming and can raise the heart rate and blood pressure. It can also negatively impact appetite and sleep. Additionally it's not recommended for infants and children. It could also have long-lasting negative effects on the brains of children and brains, which could cause addiction to drugs.
The FDA warns adults and teens with ADHD, who are suffering from anxiety or depression, but have not been treated with stimulant medication, to stay clear of them. These people should consider psychosocial treatment, which is counseling for behavior to teach positive strategies for coping and improve social interactions.
Some prescription ADHD medications can cause negative side effects, such as headaches, stomach upset and trouble sleeping. If the effects are severe, a physician may reduce your dose or switch to a different medication. If you have a serious side-effect, such as hallucinations or heart palpitations contact your doctor immediately.
Even if they claim to be that they are, most over-the-counter medications and supplements aren't effective in treating ADHD. Many minerals and vitamins have no scientific backing and some may interact with certain medications. It's important to tell your doctor about all the medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter ones.
Other medications
Stimulant drugs are considered to be the first-choice treatments for ADHD by the majority of guidelines for clinical practice. Non-stimulant medications are equally effective in certain instances. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medications, and clonidine ER and guanfacine are both available to children between the ages of 6 and 17. These drugs boost certain brain chemicals that improve working memory, attention span and impulse control.
In addition to these medicines there are many doctors who prescribe other drugs to treat ADHD. They are usually antidepressants or other drugs that alter brain chemicals. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant which can help people with ADHD and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is a different stimulant medication frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition.
These medications are available as capsules or liquids, patches or tablets. You should take the time to read the label thoroughly to ensure that you or your child are taking the correct dosage. Also, ensure that you inform your doctor of any other drugs or supplements you take, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal remedies. Certain supplements can interact with ADHD medications and trigger unwanted adverse side effects.
Natural remedies for ADHD can help a small number of people but they don't have the same research basis as medications that have been 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 people recommend for ADHD however, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there isn't enough evidence to prove that it is effective as a treatment.
Over-the-counter ADHD medication isn't a replacement for medical attention. If you or your child is suffering from symptoms of the disorder, speak with your doctor about the medications. Discuss with your doctor the best treatment options if you or your child decide that a prescription medication is the best option. He or she will consider the lifestyle of your family, any other medications you or your child takes, and your medical history to find the appropriate medication.