Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication
Medicines are used to treat ADHD by targeting brain chemicals that influence the ability to focus and impulse control. They are available in various forms, from tablets that can be swallowed or chewed to liquids and patches.
Stimulants, such as methylphenidate also known by the brand names Ritalin or Concerta boost the activity in the brain areas that regulate attention. There are also long-acting versions of these drugs that release medications continuously throughout the day, helping to minimize symptoms.
Non-stimulant medicines
Many people take medication to improve attention and impulse control. These drugs can be addictive however they are the most effective. If you feel that stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant side effects, your physician might suggest switching to a non-stimulant medication. These drugs take longer to work but can alleviate symptoms. They could also work better when used in conjunction with other treatment options.
Non-stimulant and stimulant drugs are the two major kinds of ADHD medication. Amphétamines and methylphenidate are the stimulants most commonly utilized in the treatment of ADHD. There are several different forms of these medications, including immediate-release and long-acting versions. Immediate-release stimulants can be taken whenever needed and are usually given at the start of the day. Long-acting stimulants are taken once each morning and typically last from six to 16 hours. Most people who take these medications use a combination of immediate-release and long-acting medication to control their symptoms throughout the day.
There are two types of non-stimulant medications used to treat ADHD: norepinephrine modulators and alpha agonists. Moderators of norepinephrine include atomoxetine (Stattera), and guanfacine, (Tenex or Intuniv). Clonidine (Catapres Kapvay) and Guanfacine Tenex (Intuniv) are alpha agonists that are used to treat ADHD. Stimulant medication can be risky for adolescents with drug abuse issues or an history of substance abuse. Non-stimulant medication is an option for this type of person because it doesn't have the same risk of addiction or adverse negative effects.
Many people discover that their initial ADHD medication doesn't work or causes negative side effects that are uncomfortable. It's important that you speak to your doctor and test various medications if needed. Your doctor can tell if the medication you are taking is working by checking for specific side effects such as heart rate changes, ringing ears, or a change in blood pressure. It's also an excellent idea to discuss other supplements and medications you or your child are taking, whether prescribed or over-the-counter.
Antidepressants
Stimulant medication is the most commonly used type of treatment for ADHD. They stimulate the central nervous system that increase alertness and decrease distraction. They can also improve your concentration and have the added benefit of being able to aid in feeling more in control of your mood and behavior. They are generally well-tolerated by most people, but there are some side effects. Some people experience a decrease of appetite or drowsiness, while others experience an increase in heart rate or insomnia. People with an history of depression or bipolar disorder are at greater chance of developing psychosis taking stimulant medication.
Some stimulant drugs can cause people to feel extremely angry or aggressive initially, particularly when they are taking them for the first time. If the symptoms persist and they are not getting better, they should speak to their doctor about adjusting the dosage or attempting another medication. Stimulants may also increase blood pressure and trigger seizures in certain individuals. The medications can also alter sexual function, with some experiencing delayed ejaculation as well as a less desire to sexual intimacy.
In addition, some antidepressants can increase the activity of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, and these medications can affect the effectiveness of some ADHD medications. This could result in a loss of effectiveness, therefore it is essential that people with both conditions discuss their treatment requirements with their physician.
Certain ADHD medications can interact negatively with anxiety or depression in adults and children. People with both conditions should have an open discussion with their doctor, as they might be able to find medications that address all of their symptoms together.
Antidepressants are usually well-tolerated by adolescents and teens however, they should be closely monitored for suicidal thoughts. In the event of extreme or persistent suicidal thoughts, a medical professional should be immediately contacted. This can be done by dialing 911 or by contacting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
watch this video may increase feelings of guilt and hopelessness. This is especially true for tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl, Pamelor). These medications are usually prescribed off-label to treat ADHD however they can be helpful in treating ADHD when other treatments have not worked.
Blood pressure medication
Medications that lower blood pressure can aid in controlling symptoms of ADHD such as sleep issues and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres), guanfacine long-acting (Intuniv) and atomoxetine(Atomoxetine) belong to a class of drugs called alpha agonists. These drugs are approved for treating high blood pressure, but they have been used to treat ADHD "off label" for many years. These medications reduce the tics as well as improve sleep and attentiveness. They can also trigger an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, so they are safer as opposed to stimulants.
It's not clear whether these drugs affect the long-term development of brain cells in teenagers and children. Certain experts aren't sure whether these drugs have a long-term impact on heart health issues in teenagers and children. Certain people could be more susceptible to seizures when they are taking these drugs. The American Heart Association recommends that people with an history of stroke, heart disease or other cardiovascular issues undergo a cardiac evaluation before starting these medications.
Stimulant ADHD medications can be habit-forming, and they can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can also have an adverse effect on appetite and sleep. It's also not safe for children or infants. It also has negative effects on the brains of children, which may lead to the use of 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 need to seek psychosocial therapy. This includes a behavioral therapy that teaches positive coping skills and helps improve social interactions.
Some prescription ADHD medications can trigger side effects such as stomach upset, headaches, and difficulty sleeping. If the adverse effects are severe, your doctor may lower your dose or switch you to a different medication. If you notice any serious side effects, like heart palpitations or hallucinations, contact your doctor immediately.
Over-the-counter medications and supplements aren't helpful for treating ADHD even if they claim to help. Many supplements and vitamins have no scientific basis and may even interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all supplements and medicines you take including those that are sold over-the-counter.
Other medication
Stimulant drugs are considered to be the first-choice treatment options for ADHD by the majority of guidelines for clinical practice. Non-stimulant medications can be equally effective in some cases. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved nonstimulant ADHD medication, as are clonidine ER and guanfacine ER can be prescribed to children ages 6 to 17. These medications increase certain brain chemicals which improve the ability to focus and impulse control as well as working memory.
Many doctors prescribe additional medication to treat ADHD in addition to these medications. Most often, these are antidepressants or other medicines that alter brain chemical. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant which can help patients with ADHD, and tetrahydrozoline methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is another stimulant medication commonly prescribed off-label to treat the condition.
These medications may be available as capsules, tablets, liquid, or patches. It is important to be sure to read the label carefully to ensure that you or your child are taking the right dosage. Inform your doctor if are taking any other medication or supplements, including herbal remedies and over-the-counter drugs. Certain medications can trigger unwanted side effects and interact with ADHD medication.
Natural remedies for ADHD could help a small number of people, but they do not have the same scientific backing as FDA-approved medications. 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 some recommend for ADHD. However, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is little evidence to support its effectiveness.
Over-the-counter ADHD medication is not an alternative to medical treatment. Consult your physician when you or your child is showing symptoms of the disorder. Discuss with your doctor the best treatment options if you or your child decide that prescription medication is the best option. The doctor will take into consideration your family's lifestyle, other medication your child takes, and your medical history to find the best medication for you.