ADHD Medications - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?<br /><br />Stimulant medications are the first choice of ADHD medications, they with the most research-based backing behind them, and are quick-acting. However, they're not suitable for everyone.<br /><br />These medications enhance the signaling between nerves and brain regions to lessen ADHD symptoms. These medications can also trigger side-effects like a change in heart rate or blood pressure, as well as the loss of appetite.<br /><br />Stimulants<br /><br />The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are known for increasing attention span, decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity and also improving focus and discipline. They can also raise the heart rate and blood pressure which can be dangerous for some people. The history of stimulants is long of use for both medical and non-medical uses, including recreational drugs, stimulants for performance as well as weight loss aids and illicit substances like methamphetamine, cocaine (meth) or other synthetic cathinones ("bath salts") and MDMA/ecstasy.<br /><br />Amphétamines and methylphenidates are two most popular stimulant medications prescribed to treat ADHD. They're both available in different forms, such as pills, liquids, skin patches and chewable tablets. Amphetamines are the oldest and most popular of these drugs, and methylphenidates are becoming more commonplace as the years go by. These drugs alter the way neurotransmitters, receptors and other brain chemicals are used to treat ADHD symptoms.<br /><br />Most stimulant medications are considered first-line treatments, however some doctors may decide to prescribe them second-line or as a treatment combination. The benefits of stimulants are offering quick relief from symptoms and can be felt within a few hours of taking them. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/adult-adhd-medication/">Iam Psychiatry</a> can take up to several weeks to achieve to reach their full effectiveness.<br /><br />They are available in immediate-release and extended-release versions. This flexibility allows for you to alter the dosage of your medication to suit your requirements. Medications that are taken immediately start to take effect as soon as they're swallowed and have an advantage when you require quick symptom control like before an important test, or during sports or work events.<br /><br />Extended-release stimulant medicine is designed to release its active ingredients over a long time frame, typically throughout the day. This helps maintain a constant level of the medication in your body, which will increase your compliance and overall adherence to your treatment program.<br /><br />These medications are generally safe if you follow the instructions from your doctor and stay clear of other medications or substances that interact with them. They're mostly controlled substances due to their potential for abuse, therefore you will have to get a prescription from your doctor before starting these medications.<br /><br />The newer atomoxetine, sold under the brand names Clonidine XR XR and Qelbree, and guanfacine are not stimulants. Both these medications are aimed at the brain chemical norepinephrine through blocking its reabsorption. They can be effective in decreasing hyperactivity and impulsivity, but they don't help improve concentration as as stimulants do.<br /><br /><br /><br />Be aware that not all patients respond to non-stimulant medications for adhd, so always discuss your options with your physician. Every medication has its own adverse effects and can affect people differently. It is important to be open and open about your feelings about the medication with your doctor, so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Discuss with your doctor in the event that you are planning to become pregnant or breastfeed because some of these medications can be absorbed through breast milk. You should also consult your doctor if you have any other health issues, such as heart conditions that could affect how well these medications work.<br /><br />