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Non Prescription ADHD Medication Medication is the first step for a lot of people with ADHD in their treatment. The use of medication can help increase focus and decrease the likelihood of being impulsive. The most commonly used medication for ADHD is stimulants. They work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They are available in short-acting and long-acting varieties. 1. Stimulants Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulants which increase dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels within the brain. These medications help them to focus, pay attention, and manage impulses. They may also reduce the symptoms of depression or anxiety. Doctors prescribe them in various forms, ranging from liquid chewable tablets to extended-release capsules which can last for up to 16 hours. Long-lasting drugs can help to prevent “ups and downs” during the day, but some people discover they need to supplement them with a shorter-acting medication in the evening or afternoon. Stimulants can cause adverse effects such as heart palpitations, changes in vision and hearing ringing. They can also raise blood pressure and alter appetite. They also can have long-term impacts on the brains that are developing of teenagers and children, which is why doctors are careful about prescribing them to teenagers. Amphetamines, a type of stimulant, can be prescribed legally as an ADHD medication and may help certain people to focus better. They come in the form of amphetamines and are typically taken orally in powder or tablet form however, they can also be injected or smoked. People who do not have ADHD may use them for weight loss or to boost their energy levels. They are more likely to be misused. People with eating disorders could use them to assist with their condition. The NSDUH survey only asks whether or not the person has ever been involved in non-medical usage of prescription ADHD stimulants, rather than seeking specific kinds of drugs or brands. This could lead to an underestimation of the amount of people who take substances other than those prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. It does not include information about the motivation for the use of drugs. This is vital. Some people suffering from ADHD can cut down on their non-medical stimulant usage by coordinating their time and activities in a different manner and ensuring they have time for family and rest. Others find relief by exploring natural alternatives to medication such as oligomeric prosanthocyanidins (OPCs). These are biochemical substances found in plant extracts, such as green tea, pine bark and grape. Greenblatt has helped patients suffering from handwriting problems regain the ability to write after taking OPC supplements. 2. Ritalin Ritalin (methylphenidate) is an stimulant for the central nervous system used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among children and adults. It works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, helping people focus and concentrate. Typically, the drug is taken orally, but it may be administered. Misuse of the drug can cause severe physical and psychological addiction. Injection users face a number of complications, including blood-borne diseases such as HIV, the hepatitis B and C, due to fillers with insoluble substances that block small blood vessels. This medication abuse is also linked to psychotic episodes. Most ADHD medications work to reduce symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. This is done by changing the way neurotransmitters are utilized in the body. They can also improve concentration and focus, reduce fidgeting and other distracting behavior, and increase the ability of following an agenda or a task. Doctors can prescribe a variety of medication to manage ADHD and will consult with patients to determine the appropriate dosage and timetable for each patient. Many sufferers experience adverse effects due to the use of stimulants to treat ADHD. These are usually mild, but can include stomach upset, headaches; fast heartbeat; trouble sleeping; dry mouth; and changes in blood pressure. These symptoms generally disappear by themselves or after a couple of days as the body adjusts to the medication. Some people can develop tolerance to the drug and they require a higher dose for the same effect. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms and addiction if the dose is suddenly decreased or completely stopped. It's important that you tell your doctor about any other medications you take, especially those that treat depression and sleep disorders. These can interact with stimulants. You should also give a list of all foods, drinks and herbal remedies that you are using. This will enable your doctor to select the right medication that doesn't disrupt your current treatment. 3. Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines are produced by humans, cause mild to severe neurodepression in the brain (central nervous systems) and sedation. They increase the effect of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is neurotransmitter that neurons in the brain to communicate. Enhancing the effects of GABA reduces your brain activity and benzodiazepines may help with anxiety and seizures. Alprazolam (Xanax) diazepam, Valium and Clobazam are all medications in this class. These are extremely addictive and could cause breathing problems that can result in coma or even death, especially if mix them with alcohol or other depressants such as opioid painkillers. They can also trigger severe withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them too quickly. Because of their high potential for abuse, it is recommended to keep benzodiazepines in a locked box and only take them as prescribed by your physician. These drugs are used “off-label” which means that they're not FDA approved to treat ADHD. However, studies have shown that they may be beneficial for those who don't get relief from stimulants or tolerate the effects well. They don't cause or worsen the tics that are associated with Tourette syndrome and can be given to children as young as six years old. Be aware that benzodiazepines could increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in some children, teenagers and adults during treatment or shortly after starting treatment. Talk to I Am Psychiatry if you have any concerns or any family history of suicide. In addition, be sure to inform your doctor about any medications you or your child takes such as over-the-counter supplements and vitamins. Some medications can have dangerous adverse effects and can interact with benzodiazepines. Your doctor will suggest a medication and treatment plan that's right for you or your child. Be patient and stick to the plan. It may take time to see the results. Some patients must continue taking benzodiazepines over a long period of time. They are frequently employed in combination with other treatments for symptom relief. This is especially common for adults who are unable to tolerate stimulants. 4. Atomoxetine This medication is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It works by increasing the natural brain chemical that helps control impulses and improve focus. It is typically used as a part of a treatment plan for ADHD and is utilized in conjunction with other drugs. It can also be effective for people with co-morbid disorders, like anxiety, depression or tics. Atomoxetine comes in capsule or liquid form and is recommended to take it every day with a glass of water. Children and adolescents can suffer mild side effects, such as headaches or abdominal pain. If you experience more severe reaction, such as suicidal thoughts or an allergic reaction seek immediate medical attention. It can take up to two weeks for atomoxetine begin to work and it could be several months before the full effects are evident. It is usually recommended for children at risk of abusing stimulants as well as for people with comorbid disorders. According to a review the medication is particularly effective for those suffering from the inattentive type of ADHD. However, it isn't suitable for all patients suffering from an adolescent-onset ADHD or those suffering from comorbid anxiety and/or tics. Those who have a family history of glaucoma or pheochromocytoma (a tumor on the adrenal glands) are not advised to take this medication. It is crucial to inform your doctor about any other health concerns that may be present before taking atomoxetine. Nonstimulant medications are a viable option for those who are unable to take stimulant drugs due to heart disease or glaucoma. According to the Child Mind Institute, these medications work by changing chemicals in specific regions of the brain. They are approved for children from the age of 6 to teenagers and adults. Some of these medications include clonidine ER (Kapvay) and guanfacine (ER) (Intuniv). These medications may result in side effects, including increased blood pressure or sinus tachycardia (irregular and rapid heartbeat), or they can interfere with other medications your child is taking. These medications may also interact negatively with certain medications used to treat anxiety and depression.