What is ADHD medication?
ADHD medications can reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattentiveness, and hyperactivity in adults and children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, formerly called ADD. However, ADHD medications don’t cure ADHD. Your symptoms will return if you stop taking your medication. These medications can have side effects and risks but are not the only option to manage your symptoms.
It’s essential that you, as a parent or a patient, understand the facts regarding ADHD medications so you can make an educated decision on what is best for your child or yourself.
Understanding medication for ADHD
What ADHD medication can and cannot do is the first thing you need to know.
ADHD medication can help you improve your concentration, control impulses, and plan ahead. It is not a miracle pill that can solve all your problems or your child’s.
Some symptoms can persist even when the medication works. For example, a child with ADHD may still have emotional issues, social awkwardness, and forgetfulness. An adult with ADHD could also struggle with disorganization and distractibility. It’s also important to make lifestyle changes that will help you manage your symptoms. This includes regular exercise, healthy eating, and enough sleep.
Remember that everyone responds differently to ADHD medications. It’s important to remember that what works for someone else may not work for your child or you. The effectiveness of the medication can also vary. Some people see dramatic improvements, while others only experience modest or minimal changes.
Finding the proper medication for ADHD can be overwhelming. You may need to be patient and do some trial-and-error with your doctor to find the best drug and dosage for your child or yourself.
As the effects of ADHD medications can vary, their use should be tailored to each patient and closely monitored by the doctor. If the drug for ADHD treatment is not closely monitored, the medication may be less effective or more dangerous.
Stimulant medication for ADHD
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulants. The most effective treatment for ADHD, they have been around the longest and are backed up by the most research. Inspirations include widely prescribed drugs like:
Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)
Adderall is a combination of dextroamphetamine (dextroamphetamine) and amphetamine.
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
Dexedrine, ProCentra, Zenzedi (dextroamphetamine)
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)
Evekeo, Adzenys, Dyanavel (amphetamine)
What stimulant medication does
It is believed that stimulants work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, is associated with motivation and pleasure. It also helps to regulate attention, movement, and attention. Stimulant medications can help people with ADHD improve their concentration and focus while reducing hyperactive or impulsive behavior.
Short-acting vs. long-acting stimulants
Both short-acting and long-acting stimulants are available for ADHD. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and must be taken twice a day. Long-acting stimulants or those with an extended-release last for 8-12 hours and are taken only once per day.
People with ADHD have a hard time remembering to take the medication. It is easier to take one dose per day.
Side effects of stimulant medication
Side effects of stimulants can include:
Restless and nervous feeling
Sleeping difficulties
Loss of appetite
Headaches
Unrest in the stomach
Irritability and mood swings
The following are some of the ways to reduce your risk:
Dizziness
Racing heartbeat
Some stimulant medications can also affect personality. Some people may become more withdrawn, listless, or rigid. Others might be less talkative and spontaneous. Others develop obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Many experts are concerned about the long-term effects of these ADHD medications, as stimulants can increase blood pressure and heart rates.
Safety concerns regarding stimulant medications
There are several safety concerns with stimulant medication for ADHD.
Effect on developing brain. It is still unknown what the long-term effects of ADHD medications on the developing brains of young children and adolescents will be. Researchers are concerned about the possible impact of stimulant drugs on normal brain development in adolescents and children.
Heart-related problems. ADHD stimulant medication has been linked to sudden death among children and adults who have heart problems. American Heart Association recommends all people, including children, undergo a cardiac evaluation before starting stimulants. If the person has had heart problems, an electrocardiogram may be recommended.
Psychiatric disorders. Stimulants for ADHD may trigger or worsen symptoms such as aggression, hostility, anxiety, depression, and paranoia. Suicide, depression, or bipolar disorders are particularly dangerous for people with a history. They should be closely monitored when they take stimulants.
Abuse potential. The abuse of stimulants is on the rise, especially among teenagers and young adults. Students use this drug to boost their energy levels when studying for exams or working all night. Some people abuse stimulant medications for their ability to lose weight. Check to see if your child is sharing or selling the stimulant pills.
ADHD stimulants should not be used by those who have:
Heart disease or defects of any type
High blood pressureHyperthyroidism
Glaucoma
Anxiety levels high
History of drug abuse
Red Flags for Stimulant Medication
Call your doctor immediately if you or your child experiences any of these symptoms after taking a stimulant.
ADHD medication:
chest pain
Shortness of Breath
fainting
Hearing or seeing things that are not real
suspicion or paranoia
Non-stimulant medication for ADHD
Many non-stimulant medications can be used to treat ADHD. These include Strattera (Qelbree), Intuniv, and Kapvay.
Some doctors prescribe other medications “off-label” to treat attention deficit disorder. (These drugs are prescribed for purposes that the FDA has not approved). Atypical antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and tricyclics are also used.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are often considered when stimulants don’t work or cause intolerable side effects. Non-stimulant ADHD medication tends to have a lower rate of addiction or abuse. While they are less likely than stimulants to cause agitation and insomnia, all medicines carry some risk of side effects.
Strattera for ADHD
Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree, and Viloxazine are antidepressants in selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs) that are FDA-approved for ADHD treatment. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (Viloxazine) are non-stimulant medications approved by the FDA for ADHD treatment. Unlike stimulants that affect dopamine levels, Strattera/Qelbree increases norepinephrine.
Qelbree, which is approved for children 6-17 years old, can also be prescribed to adults. Strattera, Qelbree, and other stimulant drugs have a longer-acting effect. They have a long-lasting impact, lasting over 24 hours. This makes them an excellent option for people who struggle to get up in the morning. It is also a good option for people with anxiety or depression. It also doesn’t worsen tics or Tourette Syndrome.
On the other hand, Strattera does not appear to be as efficient as stimulant medications in treating hyperactivity symptoms.
SNRI side effects
Strattera, Qelbree, and their side effects are common in both adults and children.
Sleepiness
Headaches
Dizziness
Many people experience a stomachache or pain.
Nausea or vomiting
Swings in mood
Straterra and Qelbree may also cause insomnia or appetite suppression. However, these side effects tend to be more familiar with stimulants.
Straterra can also cause sexual side effects in adults, including erectile problems. It can sometimes cause liver problems, high blood pressure, and elevated heart rates.
Strattera and Qelbee: Suicide Risk for Children
Strattera, Qelbree, and other SNRIs may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in some people. This is especially true for children and young adults with bipolar disorder, depression, and ADHD.
If your child is agitated, irritable, or shows suicidal thoughts or behaviors, call the doctor right away.
Unusual changes in behavior
High Blood Pressure Medication for ADHD
Two blood pressure medications, Qelbree and Straterra, have been approved for ADHD by the FDA:
Kapvay (clonidine)
Intuniv (guanfacine)
Intuniv and Kapvay are extended-release versions (Catapres) of the medications prescribed for ADHD off-label.
These medications, designed to treat hypertension, can have a calming effect, which may be helpful for ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and aggression. They may not be as effective in treating problems with focus and attention.
Side effects of Intuniv and Kapvay
Common side effects include:
Sleepiness and fatigue
Headache
Dizziness
Dry Mouth
Loss of appetite
Nausea, stomach pain, vomiting
Changes in heart rhythm or a dangerous fall in blood pressure are less common but can be more serious.
Wellbutrin (bupropion), for ADHD
Wellbutrin (bupropion) is the most commonly prescribed antidepressant “off-label” for treating ADHD. It is also particularly suitable for people with ADHD, depression or anxiety. Your doctor may prescribe Wellbutrin if stimulants are not working, causing severe side effects, or if you have an addiction disorder.
Wellbutrin can improve concentration by targeting two neurotransmitters: norepinephrine and dopamine.