This Is The Non Prescription ADHD Medication Case Study You'll Never Forget
Non Prescription ADHD Medication
For many people with ADHD the first step towards treatment is medication. Medication can help improve focus and decrease the tendency to be impulsive.
The most frequently used medication for ADHD is stimulants. They function by increasing levels of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. They come in both short-acting and longer-acting versions.
1. Stimulants
Many people suffering from ADHD use stimulant medicines, which increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These medications enhance their ability to concentrate and pay attention as well as control impulses. They may also help decrease the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Doctors prescribe them in a variety of forms, ranging from liquid chewable tablets to extended-release capsules which can last for up to 16 hours. Long-lasting medications can help prevent "ups and downs" during the day, however some people find they need to supplement them with a short-acting medicine in the evening or afternoon.
Stimulants can cause adverse effects like heart palpitations changes in vision and ringing in the ears. They also can raise blood pressure and alter appetite. They also can have long-term effects on the developing brain of adolescents and children and that's why doctors are cautious about prescribing them to teenagers.
Amphetamines are a kind of stimulant, are legally prescribed as ADHD medication and can help some people concentrate better. They come in the form of amphetamines and are generally taken orally in tablet or powder form however, they can also be smoked or injected. People with ADHD can take them to reduce weight or to boost their energy. They are more likely to be used for abuse. People with eating disorders may also use them to help with their illness.
The NSDUH survey does not require specific brands or types of drugs, but rather if a person has ever used prescription ADHD stimulants in a non-medical fashion. This may underestimate the number of people who have used other substances than those prescribed for ADHD. Also, it doesn't capture the motivation behind the use of drugs that is essential to understand.
Certain people with ADHD can cut down on their non-medical stimulant usage by coordinating their time and tasks differently and ensuring they are able to spend time with family and rest. Some people find relief when they learn about natural alternatives to medications like the oligomeric prosanthocyanidins. They are biochemical compounds that can be that are found in plant extracts such as pine bark, green tea and grape. Greenblatt has seen patients with handwriting that is difficult to read regain the ability to write after taking OPC supplements.
2. Ritalin
Ritalin, methylphenidate, is an agonist of the central nervous system that is prescribed to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that help people concentrate and focus their attention. The medication is usually taken orally but can be injected. Misuse of the drug can cause severe physical and psychological addiction. Users of injections face a variety of complications, such as bloodborne diseases such as HIV, the hepatitis B and C, due to insoluble fillers which can block small blood vessels. Abuse of this medication has also been associated with psychotic episodes.
The majority of ADHD medications work to reduce symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. This is done by altering the way that neurotransmitters are utilized by the body. They can also improve concentration and focus, reduce fidgeting and other distracting behaviours, and increase the ability of following an agenda or a task. Doctors may prescribe a variety of medication to treat ADHD and will work with patients to determine the most appropriate dosage and schedule for each patient.
The risk of side effects is common when stimulants are used to treat ADHD. These effects are usually mild but can include headaches, stomach upset, fast heartbeat, trouble sleeping, and changes in blood pressure. The symptoms generally disappear by themselves or after a few days, as the body becomes accustomed to the medicine. Some people can develop tolerance to the drugs and a higher dose is needed to achieve the same result. This can cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms when the dosage is suddenly reduced or eliminated altogether.
When you are taking stimulants, it's important to tell your health care provider about any other medicines you are taking, especially those that treat depression or sleep disorders, as they can interact with this class of medications. You should also provide the complete list of items, drinks or herbal remedies that you take. This information will help your doctor to choose the right medication that doesn't disrupt with your current treatment.
3. Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are man-made drugs that cause mild to severe depression of the nerves in the brain (central nervous system) and sedation. They work by increasing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter neurons in your brain use to send messages to one another. GABA can reduce brain activity, and benzodiazepines can be effective in treating seizures and anxiety.
The medications in this class include alprazolam (Xanax) as well as chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), and clobazam (Onfi, Sympazane). medications for adhd can be extremely addictive and can cause a slow breathing, which may result in a coma, or even death. This is particularly true if they are combined with alcohol or other depressants such as opioid painkillers. If you stop taking them prematurely they can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Because of their high possibility of abuse, it is advised to keep benzodiazepines in a locked box and only take them as prescribed by your physician.
These drugs are used "off-label" which means they're not FDA approved to treat ADHD. However, studies have shown that they can be beneficial for those who aren't able to find relief from stimulants or don't tolerate them well. They do not cause or exacerbate the tics associated with Tourette syndrome and can be administered to children as young to 6 years old.
Be aware that benzodiazepines can cause suicidal behavior or thoughts in a few teenagers, children and adults when they are receiving treatment or shortly after beginning treatment. Discuss with your physician any concerns you have or if you have an history of suicide in your family. Be sure to tell your provider about all medications you or your child take, including over-the-counter supplements and vitamins. Some medications can have dangerous side effects and interact with benzodiazepines. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate medication and treatment plan for your child or you. Follow the schedule and be patient -- it could take some time to see improvements. Some patients require taking benzodiazepines over a long time. These medications are often used in combination with other treatments for symptom relief. This is typical in adults who cannot tolerate stimulants.
4. Atomoxetine
It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that works by increasing the amount of this brain chemical in order to control impulses and improve concentration. It is prescribed as part the treatment program for ADHD. It can be used alone or in combination with other medication. It is also beneficial for those suffering from co-morbid disorders, such as depression, anxiety or tics. Atomoxetine is available in capsules or liquid form and is recommended to take it every day with a glass water. Children and adolescents can have mild side effects like headaches or abdominal pain. If you experience a more severe reaction, such as suicidal feelings or an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical care.
It can take up to two weeks for atomoxetine to start working and it may be several months before the full effect becomes noticeable. It is usually recommended to children at high risk of abuse of stimulants as well as adults with comorbid conditions. According to a review, this medication is particularly effective for those suffering from the inattentive type of ADHD.
It is not effective in all patients with adolescent onset ADHD or those suffering from anxiety and/or tics that are comorbid. Those who have a family history of glaucoma or pheochromocytoma (a tumor of the adrenal glands) should not take this medication. Before taking atomoxetine it is crucial to inform your doctor of any other health issues you may be suffering from.
Nonstimulant medications are a viable option for those who are unable to take stimulant medications due to glaucoma or heart conditions. According to the Child Mind Institute these medications affect the way that chemicals are altered in specific brain regions. They are approved for children from the age of 6 to teenagers and adults. Clonidine ER, (Kapvay), and Guanfacine (Intuniv) are two of these medications.
These medications can cause side effects such as increased blood tension and sinus tachycardia. Also, they may interact with other medications your child is taking. They can also interact with certain medications for anxiety and depression.