Non- Stimulant ADHD Drugs
When it comes to the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder, the typical choice, seems to be stimulant drugs. However,
several non-stimulant drugs can also serve that
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The body systems of individuals are different, and so some might not
respond to stimulants. They might have to deal with more side effects
or have a health history that does not work well with stimulants. On
this note, numerous non-stimulant drugs are appropriate
for children who live with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine (Straterra) is often the most considered medication for children who have the record of being unresponsive to
stimulant ADHD drugs. It falls under a class of ADHD drugs referred to
as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and is not seen as a
controlled substance since it has a low potential for abuse.
When compared to stimulants, Atomoxetine n to have a
more prolonged onset of action, meaning that the drug takes several
weeks to provide an optimal therapeutic effect.
Guanfacine XR
Guanfacine, also known as Intuniv, is a member of a group of
medications created mainly for the treatment of high blood pressure.
Although this is the case, the drug is effective in treating children
with ADHD who are also having sleeping issues, aggression, or tic
disorders.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Several tricyclic anti-depressants are prescribed more often to treat
ADHD. Some of them include Elavil (amitriptyline), Tofranil
(imipramine), and Norpramin (desipramine). It takes a while for the effect
to be seen, but once the effect starts showing up, the benefits of
anti-depressants can last throughout the day.
These anti-depressants are used to treat patients with ADHD, who might
also have symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Side Effects of Non-Stimulant Drugs
When equated to stimulant drugs, one advantage that non-stimulant
drugs have is that they have fewer tendencies towards being addictive.
While non-stimulant drugs have their good sides and bring their
benefits to the table, they are not without their flaws.
Side Effects of Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine comes with a warning which states that; following the first
few weeks of its usage, one of its side effects may include suicidal
thoughts. Jaundice is another likely side effect, although this is a
rare case
Apart from these, other side effects recorded for Atomexetine are
relatively mild. They include low appetite, nausea, sleeping problems,
and stomach upset. In cases where children are taking
anti-depressants, it is advisable to keep the dosage of Atomoxetine
low.
Side Effects of Guanfacine
Some children react to stimulant drugs by losing a significant amount
of weight. One positive side effect of Guanfacine is that it does not
cause a lot of reduction in appetite. Guanfacine might also cause
headaches, tiredness, and irritability.
Side Effects of Tricyclic Anti-depressants
The side effects of Tricyclic antidepressants range from mild symptoms
to serious ones, from constipation, headaches, and insomnia to
problems that might be related to the heart.
Should I Take Non-Stimulant Drugs?
If you have the above question lurking around your mind, there are a
couple of things you should know. Aside from the fact that it is vital
to see a doctor and use these drugs on prescription, several health
conditions do not sit well with non-stimulant ADHD drugs.