ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants are medications that help people suffering from ADHD focus and control their impulsive behaviour. They can be short-acting or long-acting and are prescribed by neurologists, paediatricians or psychiatrists (and in some cases GPs).
Stimulants affect norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They are controlled tightly and only prescribed by a doctor.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a drug that belongs to the family of stimulants. It enhances activity in certain areas of the brain. It boosts levels of certain chemicals, such as dopamine and noradrenaline. These help to regulate attention and behaviour. Methylphenidate can be used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy and other conditions. It may also be prescribed to treat depression in adults, although it is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Methylphenidate is absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream rapidly and is effective within a matter of hours. It can be taken as a tablet that releases immediately or chewable extended-release capsule or tablet. The doctor will prescribe a formula that is suitable for the patient's symptoms and side effects.
The effects of methylphenidate are likely to be mild and will go disappear over time as the body becomes accustomed to the medicine. If they persist, speak to the doctor who can lower the dosage or recommend another medication. It's important to take the medication exactly as prescribed and not exceed the recommended dose. This reduces the risk for addiction or abuse. The US Drug Enforcement Administration has classified the drug methylphenidate as a Schedule II substance, which means it is extremely vulnerable to abuse. The stimulants can lead to dependence and withdrawal if not taken as prescribed.
It's important to tell the doctor whether your child has heart issues, like an irregular heartbeat or a history of a heart attack. Methylphenidate increases heart rate. The doctor will check their blood pressure before beginning treatment. Discuss with the doctor any other medications your child is taking, including herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements.
The doctor will advise you how much medicine to take and how often, as well any other precautions. Methylphenidate is typically taken twice every day, with meals. Certain brands of chewable methylphenidate tablets with a long-acting action (Quillichew ER, Cotempla XR-ODT and Adhansia XR) contain aspartame which is a source of phenylalanine, and should not be taken by people suffering from phenylketonuria (an genetic condition that requires a low-protein diet to prevent the development of severe intellectual disabilities.).
It is important to stay clear of the use of alcohol and other substances while taking this medication. Some people may find their appetite decreases while taking methylphenidate. Encourage your child to consume regular meals and snacks in case they are losing weight. You may need to encourage them to drink plenty of water or squash to keep hydrated.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a central nervous system stimulant sold under the name Vyvanse. It acts on chemicals in the brain and the nerves. It helps improve impulse control and concentration in adolescents, children and adults with ADHD. It also treats the disorder of binge eating (BED) by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, reducing instances of eating disorder that is uncontrolled.
Lisdexamfetamine is part of the prodrug class that is a modified drug that is inactive until metabolized within the body. It has shown efficacy and safety in both stimulant-naive patients and stimulant exposed patients with ADHD. It is also believed to have a greater lasting effect than other stimulants, and may be less susceptible to rebound symptoms.
In a 12-week trial that was controlled by placebo, Adler et al27 found significant improvements in the scores of ADHD-RS-IV. They also reported that most of those who changed to placebo had a relapse within 2 weeks.28 In addition, Brams et al29 used an innovative method for a randomized withdrawal study in which they followed 116 adult patients for 12 weeks after stopping treatment with lisdexamfetamine. They found that the majority of patients who relapsed weren't exposed to any other stimulants in the previous two-week period.
It is crucial to inform your doctor if you have any allergies to this medication or any other medicines. Also inform your doctor whether you suffer from high blood pressure, heart disease, or any other heart-related issues. adhd medication pregnancy may increase the risk of having a stroke heart attack, stroke, or sudden death in people with these conditions.
Lisdexamfetamine can be absorbed into breastmilk and cause harm to a nursing infant. You should not take this medication while breastfeeding. This medication can cause shakiness, dizziness, or stomach upset in some individuals. Lisdexamfetamine has not been approved for use by children less than six years of age. Lisdexamfetamine is not suitable for women who are nursing or pregnant. Even if you feel better, you shouldn't stop taking the medicine unless your physician tells you. While you're taking this medication, your doctor will likely keep track of your blood pressure and pulse rate.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine, also called Strattera is a non-stimulant which works by blocking presynaptic transporters of norepinephrine. It has a high affinity this transporter, with a minimal affinity for any other neurotransmitter receptors or transporters [115-136]. In multiple placebo-controlled studies, it helped improve inhibitory control in ADHD patients by inhibiting overactivation of the right inferior frontal cortex (Chamberlain and colleagues., 2009). It was also shown to increase working memory and attention span in children suffering from ADHD. It is slow in the onset of action, and may take up to 12 weeks for its full effect to be observed. The dose is based on weight and should be increased gradually. A daily dose of once is common. The drug's poor metabolizers cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) have greater exposure and a slower elimination of atomoxetine, so the pharmacogenetic test is recommended prior to prescribing atomoxetine to these individuals.
It has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD in a variety of controlled trials, and it is frequently used as an initial treatment. It is generally well-tolerated and safe, and does not increase the risk for suicidal behavior. It isn't as efficient as stimulants in reducing tics and anxiety and 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, 137).
Two other drugs that are frequently prescribed as a first-line treatment option for ADHD are Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). These drugs were originally developed to lower blood pressure in adults. They are referred to as alpha agonists and work by stimulating specific receptors in the brain to release the neurotransmitter norepinephrine which reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. These medications have a lengthy onset of action, and many children will require between two and four weeks before they see any benefits from them. Additionally, they are not recommended for use with MAOIs (e.g. Phenelzine is not recommended due to the possibility of fatal and serious adverse events, such as extreme hypothermia and rigidity, myoclonus and autonomic instabilities.
Other Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase activity in the nervous system. They comprise a variety of drugs - some legal, and others illegal. They can be used to enhance performance, keep you alert and alert, and treat certain medical conditions like ADHD, narcolepsy and depression. Some examples of prescribed stimulants include amphetamines and methylphenidate. The term"stimulant" can also be used to describe nonprescription drugs like diet pills and caffeine. These are used for many reasons, but they can be dangerous when taken with certain foods or medications.
Stimants aren't habit-forming in the doses prescribed for those suffering from ADHD However, they may cause side effects. Some people may feel jittery or unstable. They can raise the heart rate and blood pressure and can cause stomach upset, and can lead to sleep problems.
Some children and teens who are taking stimulants might be prone to the tics, or repetitive movements or sounds, such as eye blinking and throat clearing. They could also experience a minor delay in their growth.
A doctor will determine the most effective stimulant for your child or yourself. They will also take into account factors like weight as well as age and allergies. The doctor will then prescribe medications. Always follow the instructions of your doctor. Always go through the Medication Guide that is included with your medication.
The first treatment for ADHD is usually medication. It's not the only option, but it is the most common. Everyone of any age can benefit from psychosocial interventions, such as family therapy and behavior modification.
Patients who are taking prescription ADHD medication should be assessed for risk of abuse and misuse and counseled to avoid sharing their medication with anyone else. They should also be urged to keep any medication they no longer use away and properly disposed of. Health professionals must also frequently check and monitor patients for signs of misuse, abuse or addiction. The FDA has mandated that more consistent information be included on drug labeling to help educate patients and families about the serious risks.