ADHD Stimulant Medication
Stimulants help people with ADHD manage their impulsive behavior and focus. They can be either long- or short-acting and are prescribed by paediatricians, psychiatrists or neurologists (and doctors in certain circumstances).
Stimulants alter dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They are controlled tightly and only prescribed by a doctor.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is part of the stimulant family and enhances brain activity. It increases the levels of certain chemicals, including noradrenaline and dopamine, which helps control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate can be used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. It is also prescribed to treat depression in adults, though this is not endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Methylphenidate gets into the bloodstream fast from the gut and starts working within a matter of hours. It is available as a chewable tablet or an immediate-release tablet. The doctor will prescribe the most suitable dosage based on the individual's symptoms and risk of side effects.
Side effects of methylphenidate tend to be minor and go disappear over time as the body gets used to the drug. Talk to your doctor in the event that they continue. You can reduce the dosage or even try a different medication. It is important to take the medication exactly as directed. Don't exceed the recommended dosage. This reduces the risk of addiction or abuse. Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II drug by the US Drug Enforcement Administration, which means it has a high possibility of abuse. These stimulants can trigger dependence and withdrawal if they are not used as directed.
Tell your doctor if your child has heart issues. This could be due to an irregular heartbeat or a history heart attack. Methylphenidate increases heart rate. The doctor will examine their blood pressure prior to beginning treatment. It is also crucial to inform the doctor that your child is taking other medicines, such as supplements, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
The doctor will give you guidelines on how much and how often you should take the medication, as well as any other precautions. Methylphenidate is typically taken two times every day, with meals. Certain brands of long-acting methylphenidate chewable tablets (Quillichew ER, Cotempla XR-ODT and Adhansia XR) contain aspartame which is a major source of phenylalanine and should not be consumed by people suffering from Phenylketonuria (an inheritable condition that requires a low-protein diet to prevent severe intellectual impairment).
Avoid drinking alcohol and other substances when taking this drug. Some sufferers may experience a decrease in appetite when taking methylphenidate. If your child is losing weight, try to encourage them to eat a regular diet and snacks. You may need to remind them to drink lots of water or squash to ensure they are well-hydrated.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a central nervous system stimulant, sold under the brand name Vyvanse. It acts on chemical substances that are found in the brain as well as the nerves. It enhances concentration and control of impulses in adolescents, children and adults with ADHD. It also treats BED, also known as binge eating disorder (BED) by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, reducing instances of uncontrolled eating.
Lisdexamfetamine is one of the prodrug class of medicines, which are modified to render them inactive until they are metabolized the body.27 It has been found to be safe and well-tolerated in a variety of placebo-controlled studies and has shown efficacy for both stimulant-naive and stimulant-exposed patients with ADHD. It is also believed to have a longer-lasting effect than other stimulants, and could have fewer rebound symptoms.
Adler et al27 reported that the scores for ADHD-RS-IV improved significantly during a 12-week-long controlled trial. They also reported that the majority of patients who switched to a placebo relapsed within two weeks.28 Brams et al29, however utilized a new design in a random withdrawal trial where they observed 116 adults for 12 weeks after stopping lisdexamfetamine. They discovered that the majority of patients who relapsed weren't exposed to any other stimulants during the two weeks preceding.
Discuss with your doctor if there are any reactions you may have to this medication or to any other medications. Also inform your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or any other heart-related issues. The use of stimulants can increase the chance of having a stroke, heart attacks or sudden deaths for people suffering from these conditions.
Lisdexamfetamine could be absorbed into breastmilk and harm a nursing infant. It is advised not to breastfeed when taking this medication. This medication can cause dizziness, shakiness or stomach upsets in certain individuals. Lisdexamfetamine is not approved for use by children less than six years old. Lisdexamfetamine is not suitable for women who are nursing or pregnant. You should not stop taking this medicine unless your doctor advises you to stop, even if you feel better. Your doctor will probably be looking to check your heart rate and blood pressure when you take this medication.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, is a nonstimulant that works by blocking the presynaptic receptors of norepinephrine. It has a high affinity for this transporter, with a minimal affinity for any other neurotransmitter receptors or transporters [115,136]. In multiple placebo-controlled research studies, it enhanced inhibition control in ADHD patients by inhibiting overactivation of the right inferior frontal cortex (Chamberlain and colleagues. 2009). It has also been proven to increase working memory and the ability to focus in children with ADHD. It has a slow onset of action and can take up to 12 weeks for the full effect to be evident. The dosage is determined by weight and should be increased gradually. A once-daily dose is typical. A poor metabolizer of the drug cytochrome P4502D6 (CYP2D6) has a higher exposure and a slow elimination of the drug atomoxetine. Testing for pharmacogenetics should be performed prior to prescribing atomoxetine for these individuals.
It has been proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of ADHD in a variety of controlled trials, and it is frequently utilized as a first-line treatment. It is generally well-tolerated and safe, and does not increase the risk of suicidal behavior. It isn't as effective in reducing anxiety or tics as stimulants and does not seem reduce sleep problems. However it has been proven to improve aggression in some children. Atomoxetine is more compatible with the antidepressant the fluoxetine. Therefore, they should not be taken at the same time.
Two other medications that are sometimes prescribed as a first-line treatment for ADHD are Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). These medications were initially developed to reduce blood pressure in adults. They are referred to as alpha agonists. They function by stimulating specific receptors within the brain to release the neurotransmitter neopinephrine which can decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. These medications have a lengthy duration of action and most children will require between two and four weeks before they can 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 serious and potentially fatal adverse events, such as severe hypothermia and rigidity, myoclonus and autonomic instabilities.
Other Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that boost activity in the central nervous system. They encompass a range of substances that are legal and illegal. They can be used to enhance performance, stay awake and alert, as well as treat certain medical conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy as well as depression. Some examples of prescription stimulants are amphetamines and methylphenidate. The term stimulant can also be applied to nonprescription medications such as caffeine and certain diet pills, which are used for a variety reasons, but are not safe when used in conjunction in combination with other medications or certain food items.
Stimants aren't habit-forming in the doses prescribed to treat people with ADHD However, they may have adverse effects. They can make people feel shaky or jittery. They can raise blood pressure and heart rate and cause stomach upset, and can lead to sleep problems.
Children and teens who take stimulants can have tics or repetitive noises or movements like eye blinking or throat clearing. They might also have an insignificant delay in growth.
A doctor will determine the right stimulant for your child or you. They will also consider factors like weight, age, and allergies. The doctor will then prescribe medication. Always follow the instructions of your doctor. You should study the Medication Guide that comes with your medicine.
The first option for treating ADHD is typically medication. This is not the only option, but it is the most common. People of all ages are able to benefit from psychosocial interventions, such as family therapy and behavior modification.
Patients who are prescribed ADHD medication should be screened for the possibility of misuse and abuse evaluated, and be counseled not to give their medication to others. Also they should be urged to store any medication they do not use in a safe place and dispose of them properly. Health care professionals should also regularly monitor patients for signs of abuse, misuse or addiction. I Am Psychiatry is now requiring more consistent information to be placed on the label of a drug to patients and their families be aware about the serious dangers.