ADHD medications reduce hyperactivity, impulsivity and hyperactivity symptoms in children and adults with attention deficit disorder. However, ADHD medications don’t cure ADHD. If you stop taking the medication, your symptoms will return. These medications may have risks and side effects, but they are not the only way to manage symptoms.
As a parent or patient, it’s important that you understand the facts about ADHD medications to make an informed decision regarding what is best for you or your child.
Understanding medication for ADHD
The first thing that you should know is what ADHD medication can do and cannot.
ADHD medication helps you to improve your focus, control your impulses and plan ahead. This is not a magic pill that will solve all of your or your child’s problems.
Even when medication is working, some symptoms may persist. A child with ADHD might still struggle with emotional problems, social awkwardness and forgetfulness. Adults with ADHD may also have problems with disorganization or distractibility. You should also make lifestyle adjustments to help manage your symptoms. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep are all part of this.
Everyone responds to ADHD medication differently. Remember that what may work for another person, might not work for you or your child. Similarly, the effectiveness of a medication can vary. Some people experience dramatic changes, while others may only see modest or minimal improvements.
It can be difficult to find the right medication for ADHD. It may take some time and trial and error with your doctor before you find the right drug and dosage for yourself or your child.
The doctor should closely monitor each patient’s use of ADHD medication, as the effects can vary. The drug used to treat ADHD may become less effective or even more dangerous if it is not monitored closely.
Stimulant medications for ADHD
Stimulants are the most common medication prescribed for ADHD. They are the most effective treatment of ADHD. They have been around for the longest time and the research is the strongest. Some of the most commonly prescribed drugs include:
Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)
Adderall contains dextroamphetamine and amphetamine.
Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)
Dexedrine, ProCentra, Zenzedi (dextroamphetamine)
Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)
Evekeo, Adzenys, Dyanavel (amphetamine)
What is stimulant medication?
The brain’s dopamine levels are thought to be increased by stimulants. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s associated with motivation and enjoyment. It helps regulate attention, attention, and movement. Stimulant medication can help those with ADHD to improve their focus and concentration while reducing hyperactive behavior.
Short-acting vs. long-acting stimulants
There are both short-acting and longer-acting stimulants available for ADHD. Short-acting stimulants reach their peak in a few short hours, and they must be taken two times a day. Long-acting or extended-release stimulants last 8-12 hours, and can only be taken once per day.
ADHD patients often forget to take their medication. One dose is better than two.
Side effects of stimulant medications
The side effects of stimulants include:
Restless and nervous feelings
Sleeping difficulties
Loss of appetite
Headaches
Unrest in the stomach
Irritability, mood swings and irritability
Here are some ways to reduce risk:
Dizziness
Racing heartbeat
Some stimulant drugs can also have an impact on personality. Some people become more withdrawn or rigid. Some people may become less talkative or spontaneous. Others develop obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Experts are worried about the long-term side effects of these ADHD drugs, since stimulants can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
Safety concerns about stimulant medications
Stimulant medications for ADHD can cause serious side effects.
Effect on developing brain. The long-term impact of ADHD medication on developing brains in young children and adolescents is not yet known. Researchers are worried about the potential impact of stimulant medications on normal brain development for children and adolescents.
Heart-related problems. ADHD stimulant medications have been linked to sudden deaths in children and adults with heart conditions. The American Heart Association recommends that all people, children included, undergo a cardiovascular evaluation before beginning stimulants. An electrocardiogram might be recommended if the person has suffered from heart problems.
Psychiatric disorders. Stimulants used for ADHD can trigger or worsen symptoms like aggression, hostility and anxiety. People with a past are at greater risk of suicide, depression or bipolar disorder. When they use stimulants, it is important to closely monitor them.
Potential for abuse. Abuse of stimulants, particularly among teens and young adults, is increasing. Students take this drug when they need to increase their energy level, such as during exams or long nights of work. Some people abuse stimulant medication to lose weight. Check if your children are sharing or selling stimulant pills.
ADHD stimulants shouldn’t be used by people with:
Heart defects or any form of heart disease
High blood pressureHyperthyroidism
Glaucoma
Anxiety levels are high
History of drug abuse
Red Flags of Stimulant Medication
If you or your child experience any of these symptoms following the use of a stimulant, call your doctor right away.
ADHD medication
chest pain
Shortness of breath
fainting
You may be hearing or seeing something that is not real.
suspicion or paranoia
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD
ADHD can be treated with many non-stimulant medications. Strattera (Qelbree), Intuniv and Kapvay are some of the non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat ADHD.
Doctors prescribe “off-label medications” to treat attention disorder. These drugs are prescribed in ways that FDA has not approved. Antidepressants that are not typical antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin or tricyclics, may also be prescribed.
When stimulants do not work or have intolerable side-effects, non-stimulant ADHD medication is often a consideration. Non-stimulant ADHD medications tend to be less addictive or abused. All medicines can cause side effects, even though they are less likely to cause insomnia and agitation than stimulants.
Strattera for ADHD
FDA-approved ADHD medications include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (Viloxazine), and Viloxazine. FDA-approved non-stimulant medications, Qelbree and Strattera are FDA approved for ADHD treatment. Strattera/Qelbree increase norepinephrine, unlike stimulants which affect dopamine.
Qelbree can be prescribed for adults as well. It is approved by the FDA for children aged 6-17. Strattera, Qelbree and other stimulant medications have a longer acting effect. The effects last for over 24 hours. They are a great option for those who have trouble getting up in the morning. This is also an excellent option for those who suffer from anxiety or depression. The treatment does not worsen Tourette Syndrome or tics.
Strattera, on the other hand does not seem to be as effective as stimulant medication in treating hyperactivity.
SNRI side effects
Strattera and Qelbree side effects can affect both adults and children.
Sleepiness
Headaches
Dizziness
Many people suffer from stomach pain or a ache.
Nausea or vomiting
Swings of mood
Straterra and Qelbree can also cause insomnia or an appetite suppressant. These side effects are more common with stimulants.
Straterra may also have sexual side effects on adults, such as erectile dysfunction. Straterra can cause liver issues, high blood pressure and elevated heart rate.
Strattera and Qelbee – Suicide Risk in Children
Strattera, Qelbree and other SNRIs can cause suicidal behavior or thoughts in some people. This is particularly true for young people with ADHD, bipolar disorder and depression.
Call your doctor immediately if you notice that your child has become agitated or irritable or is showing suicidal behavior or thoughts.
Unusual behavior
High Blood Pressure Drugs for ADHD
The FDA has approved two blood pressure medications for ADHD: Qelbree Straterra
Kapvay (clonidine)
Intuniv (guanfacine)
Intuniv (Catapres), and Kapvay (Intuniv) are the extended-release versions of medications prescribed off-label for ADHD.
These drugs, originally designed to treat hypertension can have a calming affect, which could be beneficial for ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity, aggression, and impulsivity. These medications may not be effective at treating attention and focus problems.
Intuniv side effects and Kapvay side effects
Side effects that are common include:
Sleepiness and fatigue
Headache
Dizziness
Dry Mouth
Loss of appetite
Nausea, stomach pain, vomiting
A dangerous drop in blood pressure or changes in heart rhythm are less common, but more serious.
Wellbutrin, or bupropion (Bupropion), is used to treat ADHD.
Wellbutrin, or bupropion, is the most common antidepressant prescribed “off-label”, to treat ADHD. It is particularly useful for those with ADHD, anxiety or depression. Wellbutrin may be prescribed by your doctor if stimulants do not work, cause severe side effects or you have an addiction problem.
Wellbutrin improves concentration by targeting norepinephrine, and dopamine.
