Non Stimulant ADHD Medication
If you're looking for an ADHD medication that does not contain stimulants, there are a few choices. They're usually less expensive since they are generic.
Stimulants are medications that increase the levels in the brain of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in children as well as adults. However, they could cause adverse reactions or not work at any time.
Strattera

Strattera (atomoxetine) is an anti-stimulant drug, is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It blocks the brain's chemical, norepinephrine, from functioning. It is not as effective as other ADHD drugs, but it can be useful for certain individuals.
One of the major advantages of using a non-stimulant ADHD drug like Strattera is that it has a lower risk for abuse and dependence than stimulants. Stimulant medications are Schedule II controlled substances, which means they have strict federal regulations regarding how they're manufactured, prescribed and dispensed.
A non-stimulant ADHD medication has another benefit that doctors can call the pharmacy to request refills, instead of prescribing a new prescription each month. This could save many people the burden of making a an appointment at their doctor's office each month.
Strattera is also less likely to cause adverse effects than other ADHD medications. Because it's not a stimulant, this is partly why. However, it can cause serious heart problems in people who have a history of heart disease or a defect.
As a result, it's important to tell your doctor that you're suffering from any heart issues or if you're taking any other medications that affect your heart. To ensure that Strattera is working as it should your doctor will need to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and other health indicators.
Talk to your doctor If you're suffering from liver problems like jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes or skin. Lab testing to check the level of liver enzymes can assist your doctor determine the best dosage for you.
Strattera has been associated with strokes and heart attacks in a small percentage of people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or other health issues. The risk of developing these conditions is higher when treatment is first initiated and also when the dose is changed.
Similar to this, a rare condition known as pheochromocytoma is a possibility for people who are taking Strattera. These symptoms can be severe so make sure to check with your doctor if are at risk.
Other adverse effects of Strattera include a decrease in appetite nausea stomach pain, vomiting constipation, weight loss, headache, dry mouth and headache. These side effects usually disappear after a few weeks.
Atomoxetine
The non-stimulant ADHD medication atomoxetine that is sold under the brand name Strattera, is a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works within the brain to boost focus and decrease restlessness among those who suffer from hyperactivity, concentration, or trouble controlling impulses. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with other treatments for ADHD.
It was the very first non-stimulant medication to be FDA approved for ADHD treatment for adults. It is frequently prescribed off-label as a treatment for depression. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine uptake and targets the frontocortical system in which ADHD symptoms develop. It also blocks serotonin transporter (SERT) and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors, which are implicated in ADHD symptoms.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that atomoxetine has a substantial impact on ADHD symptoms, particularly for children. Additionally, it was associated with less adverse effects than immediate-release methylphenidate.
Some changes in blood pressure or heart rate may be caused by atomoxetine. Studies conducted in clinical studies have revealed that about 15 to 26 percent of children and adolescents and 27-32 percent of adults, have some tangible however not statistically significant, rises in blood pressure or heart rate.
The increase is usually temporary and then returns to the baseline. It is essential to be aware of the changes. At the beginning of treatment, and throughout the course of treatment, blood pressure should be regularly recorded with use of a centile chart. Patients with hypertension should be monitored for blood pressure more frequently.
The effects of atomoxetine include dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness. These effects are typically temporary and go away when the medication is taken on a regular basis.
It may take several weeks before atomoxetine can provide its full benefits. Talk to your doctor when you don't see any improvement after taking atomoxetine. It may be necessary to increase the dosage or take it more frequently than usual.
You are not allowed to operate any heavy equipment while taking this medicine. You might feel drowsy or experience difficulty functioning. It is important to inform your doctor if or plan to have a child. It is also essential to keep this and any other medications out of reach of children.
Clonidine
Clonidine is an adhd medication that is not stimulant was approved by the FDA in 2009. The medication works by altering nerve impulses in the brain to relax blood vessels. This medication lowers blood pressure and treats ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Clonidine isn't addictive nor has no side effects, unlike other stimulant medications. It is also used to treat sleep issues.
You can purchase this medication in the form of Catapres tablet, or an extended-release tablet (Kapvay). Tablets should be taken two times a day: in the morning and at night. This medication can be taken with or without food.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor If you have any questions about how to take this medication. Be sure to follow the directions on the prescription label.
Avoid taking other drugs that can cause dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure while you are taking clonidine. This includes alcohol, certain prescription drugs, and a few prescription and over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Clonidine should not be used during your surgery or other medical procedures. It is crucial to not combine clonidine with other medications that slow down your heart rate, such as tranquilizers or the use of narcotics.
Your doctor might want to examine your blood pressure prior to and after you take clonidine. This will allow your doctor to determine if you need another test to ensure that you do not have any other conditions which could be affected by this medication.
The most common side effects of clonidine are headache, drowsiness mouth, and a reduced heart rate. These adverse effects usually occur after the first dose, or over several weeks of treatment and aren't life-threatening.
Consult your physician immediately when you notice any serious side effects from this medication. The side effects can include confusion, slowing heart rate, and difficulty urinating.
People who suffer from kidney problems or diabetes may be at a higher risk of side effects from clonidine. Clonidine can hinder your body's ability to remove blood sugar from your blood. If you have diabetes or kidney disease your doctor may suggest you take a smaller dose of clonidine.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a non-stimulant medicine, is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by enhancing areas of the brain that control executive functions, which include working memory impulse control, working memory, and attention. It is believed to improve connections between the prefrontal cortex and other parts of the brain.
It's available in the form of an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. Both are taken at the time of bed. The dosage is determined by your weight, effectiveness and any other medications you may be on.
The daily dose for the first dose is typically 1 mg. However, your doctor may adjust the dosage to meet your requirements. It is crucial to take this medication on a regular basis and to follow the instructions carefully.
Your doctor will also inform you about any potential side effects you should be aware of. This could include dry mouth headaches, weakness, or dry mouth.
These side effects usually become better within a few days of starting the medication. If they persist, consult your doctor immediately.
Guanfacine should not be taken if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. medications for adhd in adults should not be used when you are taking antihistamines, barbiturates or other sedatives.
In addition you should avoid taking this medication if you suffer from low blood pressure or an history of heart disease or stroke. These can cause severe adverse effects when taking guanfacine.
This medication is not recommended for use by teenagers or children. It can cause drowsiness, which can make it difficult to focus or think. They also can be more likely to become violent or exhibit symptoms of tics.
Guanfacine should be handled with caution for older adults. This is because older people are more prone to serious adverse effects such as falls, injuries, and accidents. It is also more difficult for them to clear the body of guanfacine, which increases their chances of experiencing serious side effects.
Guanfacine may make it more difficult to drive or operate machinery because of the effects of drowsiness. It is best not to operate machinery or drive any vehicle that requires alertness until are sure it does not impact your ability to drive or operate machinery.