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Types of Over the Counter ADHD Medication The medications treat ADHD by targeting the brain chemical that affects attention and impulse control. The drugs are available in a variety of forms, including tablets that can either be swallowed or chewed as well as liquids and patches. Stimulants like methylphenidate, also known by the brand names Ritalin or Concerta, increase activity in brain areas that regulate attention. They're also available in long-acting forms that release medication throughout the day to limit fluctuations in symptoms. Non-stimulant medications Many people use medications to improve their attention and impulse control. The most effective drugs are stimulants that increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine however, these medications are also prone to becoming addictive. If you feel that stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant adverse effects, your doctor may suggest switching to a non-stimulant medication. These drugs can help improve symptoms, but they will take longer to begin working. They may also work better when used in conjunction with other treatment options. The two main categories of ADHD medications are stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. Amphétamines and methylphenidate are the stimulants that are most commonly used in treating ADHD. There are a variety of forms of these medications including immediate-release and longer-acting versions. Immediate-release stimulants are taken when needed, and are usually taken at the beginning of the day. Long-acting stimulants can be taken in the morning, and usually last from six to 16 hours. Most people who use these medications take a mixture of long-acting and immediate-release medication to manage their symptoms throughout the day. Alpha antagonists and norepinephrine moderators are both non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat ADHD. Norepinephrine modulators include Atomoxetine (Stattera) and guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv). Clonidine (Catapres Kapvay) and Guanfacine Tenex (Intuniv) are alpha agonists for treating ADHD. Teenagers with substance abuse issues or addiction issues could be at risk of taking stimulant medication. Non-stimulant medication could be a great alternative for this population because they don't have the risk of addiction or adverse effects. Many people find that their first ADHD medication does not work or has side effects that are bothersome. It is important to consult your doctor and experiment with various medications if needed. Your doctor can tell you if the medication you are taking is working by checking for specific side effects such as heart rate changes, ringing ears, or a change to your blood pressure. It's also an excellent idea to discuss the other supplements and medications that you or your child are taking in addition to prescription or over-the-counter. Antidepressants Stimulant medications are the most common kind of medication used to treat ADHD. They stimulate the central nervous systems which increase alertness and reduce distraction. They can also boost concentration, and have the added benefit of helping people feel more able to control their behavior and emotions. These medications are typically well-tolerated by most people, but there are some side effects. Some people may experience a decrease in appetite or drowsiness, while others may develop an increase in heart rate or insomnia. People who have a history of depression or bipolar disorders are more likely to experience psychosis while taking stimulant medications. Some stimulant medications can cause people to feel unusually angry or aggressive, especially when they first begin taking the drug. If these symptoms continue, they should talk to their doctor about changing the dosage or attempting another medication. add in adults medication can also increase blood pressure and cause seizures in certain individuals. The medications can also alter sexual function, with some experiencing delayed ejaculation and a decreased desire to have sexual activity. Some antidepressants, including serotonin-boosting drugs, may interfere with the efficacy of certain ADHD medication. This could lead to a loss of effectiveness, which is why it's crucial that those suffering from both conditions discuss their medication needs with their doctor. Certain ADHD medications can negatively interact with depression or anxiety in both children and adults. It is essential to discuss both conditions with your doctor, as you might be able to find a medication that addresses all of your symptoms. Antidepressants are generally well-accepted by adolescents and teens, but suicidal thoughts should be closely monitored. In cases of severe or persistent suicidal ideas, a medical professional should be immediately contacted. This is done by calling 911 or calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Certain antidepressants can trigger feelings of guilt, agitation and hopelessness. This is especially true for tricyclics such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl or Pamelor). These medications are often prescribed for ADHD off-label, however they can be beneficial when other treatments have not worked. Blood pressure medication Medicines that lower blood pressure also help control symptoms of ADHD, including sleep problems and aggression. Clonidine (Catapres) Guanfacine long-acting (Intuniv), and atomoxetine(Atomoxetine) belong to a class of drugs known as alpha agonists. These medicines are approved for treating high blood pressure, however they have been used to treat ADHD “off label” for many years. These drugs reduce anxiety, improve sleep and boost concentration. They can also lower heart rate and blood-pressure which makes them more secure than stimulants. It's not known if these medications impact the long-term development of brain cells in children and teenagers. Some experts are also unsure whether these drugs affect long-term heart health issues in teenagers and children. These drugs can also increase the risk of seizures in some individuals. The American Heart Association recommends that people with an history of heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular issues have an examination of their cardiac health prior to starting them. Stimulant ADHD medications can be habit-forming, and they can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can also have negative effects on the appetite and sleep. It's also not safe for infants or children. It could also have negative long-term effects on children's brains that could cause addiction to drugs. The FDA warns that teens and adults with ADHD who are suffering from depression or anxiety should not be taking stimulant medication. They should seek out psychosocial treatment. This involves behavioral therapy that helps develop positive coping skills and helps improve social interactions. Some prescription ADHD medications can trigger adverse effects like stomach upset, headaches, and difficulty sleeping. If the effects are severe, your doctor may reduce your dose or switch to another medication. If you have a serious side-effect like hallucinations or heart palpitations, consult your physician immediately. Even if they claim they do, over-the-counter supplements and medications are not helpful in treating ADHD. Many vitamins and minerals have no scientific backing and some may interact with certain medications. Tell your doctor all the supplements and medications you use including those available over the counter. Other medication Stimulant medications are considered first-choice treatment options for ADHD by the majority of guidelines for clinical practice. Non-stimulant medications are equally effective in certain cases. Atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree) are FDA-approved non-stimulant ADHD medications, and the clonidine ER and guanfacine ER can be prescribed to children between the ages of 6 and 17. These drugs increase certain brain chemicals that enhance attention span and impulse control as well as working memory. In addition to these medicines, many doctors prescribe other medications to treat ADHD. They are usually antidepressants or other drugs that alter brain chemicals. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant which can help patients with ADHD and tetrahydrozoline-methylphenidate (Adderall XR) is another stimulant medication frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition. The medications are available as capsules, tablets liquid, patches, or capsules. You should take the time to read the label thoroughly to ensure that you or your child is taking the right dosage. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medication or supplements, such as herbal remedies and prescription drugs. Some medications can cause unwanted side effects or interact with ADHD medication. Natural remedies for ADHD can benefit only a few people however they don't have the same scientific support as the medications that have been approved by the FDA. For example, the herb DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) is sometimes sold as an over-the-counter ADHD treatment, but the FDA warns that it can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can lead to serious health problems. St. John's Wort is another herbal supplement some people suggest for ADHD. However the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is no evidence that supports its effectiveness. Over-the-counter ADHD medication is not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult your physician when you or your child is showing symptoms of the disorder. If you decide that prescription medicine is right for you or your child talk to your doctor about the best treatment options. The doctor will take into account the lifestyle of your family and any other medications you or your child is taking along with your medical history, in order to find the best medication.