Non Prescription ADHD Medication
Stimulant medication is the first line of treatment for ADHD. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the most effective dosage and type of medication.
Nonstimulant medicines are available for children and adults. These medications treat a variety of conditions but can also help with ADHD symptoms. They include antidepressants like phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and Venlafaxine. Combining them with stimulants could increase their effects.
Stimulants
Stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall help reduce the symptoms of ADHD in a large number of children and adults. These drugs improve communication between nerves and areas of the brain that regulate behavior, concentration, and impulsivity. They can cause adverse physical and mental consequences if they are used improperly or used for a prolonged period of time. People who have a history of depression, substance abuse or bipolar disorders should avoid taking stimulant medications unless under the care and supervision of a doctor.
Stimulants are medications that boost the activity of certain neurotransmitters that are found in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. dealing with adhd without medication can also cause cardiovascular problems, such as heart rhythm problems, by increasing blood pressure and heartbeat. Some people also experience changes in their personality after taking stimulants. They become withdrawn and sluggish or less spontaneous and talkative. Others may become more irritable or aggressive, and even develop obsessive compulsive symptoms.
The most commonly prescribed stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidate (MPH; Ritalin and Concerta) and dextroamphetamine-AMP (d-AMP; Adderall). Because they can be crushed or snorted in order to produce a high, they're classified as controlled substances. The dosage and distribution of these medications are controlled to avoid abuse and misuse.
There are many non-stimulant drugs that can help control ADHD symptoms. Certain are specifically designed to treat the disorder and are FDA-approved for that reason, while others such as blood pressure medications have similar effects on ADHD symptoms and are able to be used in conjunction with stimulants, or even on their own.
Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a great antidepressant. It's a successful treatment for both children and adults suffering from ADHD and doesn't affect the appetite or sleep patterns, which are two of the most common side effects of stimulants. It also helps reduce the severity of anxiety, depression and other mental disorders.
Other antidepressants, such as atomoxetine (Prozac), Citalopram (Celexa) and sertraline (Zoloft) are also effective well to control ADHD symptoms in some adults and children. They aren't believed to interact with stimulant drugs, although some researchers believe they may interfere with some of the drug's positive effects.
In addition, many people who suffer from ADHD have other medical conditions such as Tourette's syndrome or anxiety, which may influence how the medication performs for them. In these cases an alternative antidepressant may be better.
Lifestyle changes can also enhance the capacity of an adult or child to focus, control their impulsivity and manage their emotions. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and a good night's sleep can help. In some cases doctors may suggest nutritional supplements as a method to reduce the side effects of ADHD medications or to supplement the current treatment regimen. These supplements should only be administered under a doctor's supervision, and the individual should avoid certain foods or drinks that could cause an adverse impact. For example, foods that are rich in tyramine should be avoided as they can trigger the body's reaction to amphetamine or methylphenidate. These foods include red meat, poultry, fish and dairy. In dealing with adhd without medication , alcohol and nicotine should be avoided because they can also affect your attention.