8 Tips To Boost Your ADHD Stimulant Medication Game
ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants assist people with ADHD manage their impulsive behavior and focus. They are either short-acting, or long-acting and are prescribed by neurologists, paediatricians, or psychiatrists (and in some cases, GPs).
Stimulants affect dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. They are tightly controlled and can only prescribed by a doctor.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate belongs to the family of stimulants and boosts brain activity. It boosts levels of certain chemicals, such as dopamine and noradrenaline that help to regulate attention and behaviour. Methylphenidate can be used to treat ADHD and the condition known as narcolepsy. It may also be prescribed to treat depression in adults, although this is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Methylphenidate is absorbed by the gut into the bloodstream quickly and can be used within a few hours. It is available as a chewable tablet or an immediate-release tablet. The doctor will prescribe a dosage that is most appropriate for the patient's condition and side effects.
The effects of methylphenidate are likely to be mild and go in time as the body becomes accustomed to the medicine. Talk to your doctor should you experience any issues. He can lower the dosage or try another medication. It is essential to take this medication exactly as prescribed and not exceed the recommended dose. This can reduce the chance for abuse or addiction. The US Drug Enforcement Administration has classified the drug methylphenidate as a Schedule II substance, which means it is highly susceptible to abuse. Stimulants can cause dependence and withdrawal when not taken in the manner prescribed by a doctor.
It is important to inform the doctor that your child is suffering from heart problems, such as an irregular heartbeat or history of heart attack. Methylphenidate may increase heart rate, which is why the doctor will check their blood pressure and heart rhythm before starting treatment. It is also essential to inform the doctor if your child is taking any other medicines, such as herbal remedies or vitamins and supplements.
The doctor will inform you how much medication to take and how often, in addition to any other precautions. Methylphenidate is recommended to be taken twice a day, with meals. Certain brands of chewable tablets that methylphenidate is long-acting (Quillichew ER, Cotempla XR-ODT and Adhansia XR) contain aspartame which is a major source of phenylalanine and should not be consumed by those suffering from Phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that requires a low-protein diet to prevent severe intellectual impairment).
It's important to avoid alcohol and other drugs while taking this medication. Some people might notice their appetite declines when they take methylphenidate. If your child is losing weight, you should encourage them to eat a regular diet and snacks. You may have to encourage them to drink plenty of water or squash to ensure they are hydrated.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is sold under the brand name Vyvanse is a stimulant for the central nervous system that affects the chemical activity of the brain and nerves. It improves concentration and impulse control in children, adolescents and adults with ADHD. It also treats the disorder of binge eating (BED) by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, and reducing instances of eating disorder that is uncontrolled.
Lisdexamfetamine is part of the prodrug class of medications, which are modified to make them inactive until they are metabolized the body.27 It has been proven to be safe and well-tolerated by a variety of placebo-controlled trials and has shown efficacy for both stimulant-naive and those exposed to stimulants with ADHD. It is also thought to have a longer-lasting effect than other stimulants, and could have less rebound symptoms.
In a 12-week placebo-controlled trial, Adler et al27 found significant improvements in the ADHD-RS-IV scores. They also found that the majority of patients who were switched to placebo relapsed after 2 weeks.28 In addition, Brams et al29 used an innovative design for an uncontrolled withdrawal study in which they followed 116 adults for 12 weeks after stopping lisdexamfetamine treatment. They discovered that the majority of patients who relapsed weren't exposed to any other stimulants during the previous two weeks.
Tell your doctor if you have any allergies you may have to this medication or to other medications. Also inform your doctor that you have high blood pressure, heart disease or any other heart problems. The use of stimulants can increase the risk of having a stroke heart attack, stroke, or sudden death for those with these conditions.
Lisdexamfetamine can be absorbed into breast milk and harm a nursing infant. It is not recommended to feed your baby while taking this medication. Some sufferers might experience shakiness, dizziness or stomach upset when taking this medication. Lisdexamfetamine is not approved for children younger than six years of age. Lisdexamfetamine is also not approved for use by women who are breastfeeding or pregnant. You should not stop taking this medicine unless your doctor advises you to stop, even if you are feeling better. While you are taking this medication, your doctor will likely check your blood pressure and pulse rate.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a nonstimulant that blocks the presynaptic norepinephrine-transporter. It is highly specific for this transporter and minimal affinity for other neurotransmitter transporters and receptors [115,136and 136. In multiple placebo-controlled trials, it enhanced the inhibitory control of ADHD patients by reducing the overactivation on the right inferior cortex (Chamberlain and coworkers, 2009). It was also found to increase working memory and attention span in children with ADHD. It can take as long as 12 weeks before you can see the full effects. The dosage is based on weight and should be gradually increased. A daily dose of once is common. People who are not metabolizers of the drug the cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) have greater exposure and a slower elimination of atomoxetine. it is recommended to conduct a pharmacogenetic test prior to prescribing atomoxetine for these people.
It has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of ADHD in a variety of controlled studies, and is frequently employed as a first-line treatment. It is generally well tolerated and is safe, and does not increase the risk of suicidal behavior. It isn't as efficient as stimulants in reducing tics and anxiety, and it does not seem to reduce sleep problems, but it has been proven to decrease aggression in children. Atomoxetine is also more likely to interact with the antidepressant fluoxetine, so it is not recommended to take them together [115, 37.
Two other medications that are often prescribed as a first-line treatment for ADHD are Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). These drugs were originally created to lower high pressure in adults. They are referred to as alpha agonists. They function by stimulating specific receptors within the brain to release the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which can reduce the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications have a long duration of action and many children will require between two and four weeks before they see any benefits from them. They are not recommended for use with MAOIs, e.g. Phenelzine is not recommended due to the possibility of serious and potentially fatal adverse reactions, including severe hypothermia and rigidity, myoclonus and autonomic instability.
Other Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system. They comprise a variety of substances - some legal, and others illegal. They are used to improve performance, stay alert and alert, and treat certain medical conditions, such as ADHD or narcolepsy, as well as depression. Amphetamines, methylphenidate, and other prescription stimulants are available. The term stimulant is also used to describe nonprescription drugs like caffeine and diet pills. They are utilized for a variety of reasons, but they can also be dangerous when taken in conjunction with certain food items or medications.
concerta adhd medication don't cause habit-forming doses prescribed for patients with ADHD However, they may cause side effects. Some sufferers may feel jittery, or shaky. They can cause an upset stomach and raise blood pressure.
Children and teens who are taking stimulants may experience tics or repeated sounds or movements, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. They could also experience a minor slowing in growth.
A doctor will determine the most effective stimulant for you or your children. They will also consider other factors, such as weight, age, and whether you or your child has any allergies. They will then prescribe the medication. Always follow the doctor's prescriptions. You should always go through the Medication Guide that is included with your prescription.
The first treatment for ADHD is usually medication. This is not the only option, but it is the most popular. All ages of people are able to benefit from psychosocial interventions, like family therapy and behavior modification.
Patients who are taking prescription ADHD medication should be evaluated for the risk of abuse and misuse, and advised to avoid sharing their medication with anyone else. Additionally they should be urged to keep any medications they no longer use in a secure place and dispose of them appropriately. Health professionals must also frequently check and check patients for signs of misuse, abuse or addiction. The FDA is requiring more consistent information to be placed on drug labels to educate patients and their families about the dangers of these drugs.