ADHD Medications - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people suffering from ADHD are treated with medication. It can help alleviate symptoms, but can also cause adverse effects. If you experience adverse reactions, consult your GP about them.
Stimulants are the most common type of prescription medication healthcare doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. These drugs increase the amount of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, which control the behavior and attention.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, a stimulant of first choice to treat ADHD in both children and adults, is the most commonly prescribed medication. It is effective by increasing the activity in brain regions that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate can also be used to treat other ailments, such as the condition known as narcolepsy. It can aid people suffering from narcolepsy to stay awake and improve their ability focus and pay attention.
This medication could have a high potential for abuse and is considered a Schedule II drug by the US Drug Enforcement Agency. The medication is taken exactly as prescribed to reduce the chance of abuse and the adverse negative effects. Methylphenidate may cause psychotic symptoms in a few people. It may also worsen behavior problems and tics in those with bipolar disorder or Tourette's syndrome. Before taking this medication, patients with these conditions must tell their doctor.
Consult your physician if there are any other health concerns or if you have an allergy to any food or dyes. (For example, tartrazine is a yellow dye that is found in some processed food as well as in some medications. If you're taking Adhansia, XR). Methylphenidate is known to interact with drugs, such as opioids, antidepressants, and monoamine oxide inhibitors. These include isocarboxazid linezolid, methylene blue rasagiline, Emsam, Zelapar, or tranylcypromine.
It's also important to stay clear of drinking alcohol or other stimulant drugs when taking methylphenidate. They can have a negative effect on your blood pressure and heart rate. The tablets with immediate release methylphenidate (Ritalin) and the chewable tablet with long-acting function and the long-acting orally disintegrating capsule (Quillichew ER and Cotempla XR-ODT) contain phenylalanine. It can be dangerous if you have a genetic disorder known as phenylketonuria (PKU).
Bupropion
Bupropion is an antidepressant drug that works with the brain to improve mood and reduce symptoms of ADHD. It is also used to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which is a form of depression that occurs in the fall and winter months. It can also help people quit smoking by reducing the craving for nicotine and withdrawal symptoms.
Bupropion has been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms in adults in several studies. The pooled fixed effect RR for week-6 improvement (using a clinically significant change of 30% or greater on the CGI) is 1.14 (95%CI 0.95-1.37). For overall response, this is 52 percent of the bupropion group and 37% in the placebo group.
Bupropion can have serious and sometimes life-threatening interactions various drugs, including sedatives antidepressants and some blood pressure drugs. It may also increase the risk of seizures in people who have an history of seizures or high blood pressure. It is also not recommended for people suffering from certain medical conditions. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Bupropion is a form of brand-name drugs Wellbutrin SR and Wellbutrin XL. It is also available in the form of Zyban, Budeprion SR. Aplenzin and Forfivo XL. It is also available in generic form.
Tricyclic antidepressants
Tricyclic Antidepressants, or TCAs are a type of medications that work by affecting brain chemical. They were among the first antidepressants developed. While they aren't used as a first line treatment for depression anymore however, they could still be effective for some people. They inhibit the reuptake of dopamine serotonin and noradrenaline by increasing their availability in neurons. They also aid in reducing the symptoms of other ailments, such as pain syndromes and enuresis such as fibromyalgia and Phantom limb syndrome.
TCAs are effective in treating ADHD symptoms, whether they are administered on their own or in combination with stimulants. They can help improve the symptoms of ADHD, and can reduce depression, anxiety and impulsiveness. In addition, they may help manage disorders like tics, which are repeated uncontrollable movements or sounds like throat clearing or blinking.
TCAs can cause adverse effects, like sedation, dry mouth and constipation, and can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular issues. They can interact with other medications, such as anticholinergics and should be avoided by pregnant women. They are also known to cause teratogenic reactions in animals and can cross the placenta. If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor, as there are newer antidepressants that have a lower adverse-effect profile.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibition (SSRIs).
SSRIs are a class of antidepressants that inhibit serotonin reuptake by neuronal cells and increase the amount of available serotonin for signaling. They also reduce anxiety and reduce impulsive behaviors. They are commonly used to treat adhd since they can help people suffering from their symptoms and work well in conjunction with other drugs. SSRIs include fluoxetine, sertraline-paroxetine and citalopram. They have linear pharmacokinetics, and have a low clearance from the human body. However, they are extensively processed by CYP450 enzymes within the liver. This results in blood concentrations that fluctuate.
These medications are also prescribed to treat other conditions, such as major depression disorder, bulimia nervosa generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The SSRIs fluoxetine, escitalopram and sertraline can help reduce PTSD core symptoms. They don't appear to be effective in treating other PTSD symptoms.
SSRIs may cause a very uncommon side effect, referred to as sexual dysfunction. It is important to discuss this with your doctor if are considering taking one of these medicines. Many people need to test a few different types of ADHD medication before finding the one that works for them. There are always new medications being developed and researched. It is also crucial to report all the medications you take to your doctor.
Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
If stimulant drugs don't work for adults with ADHD doctors prescribe a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibit (SNRI). These medications boost the levels of two brain chemicals called serotonin and norepinephrine. They also improve mood, reduce depression and anxiety.
SNRIs are similar to TCAs however they are safer and have less side effects. They are used to treat a variety of ailments, including anxiety disorders as well as chronic pain such as fibromyalgia and nerve pain. Sometimes, they are used to treat depression in addition. The SNRIs are duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor).
These drugs work by preventing the reabsorption (reuptake) of norepinephrine which is a natural reaction in the brain after neurotransmission. This causes a greater than normal phasic release of norepinephrine. The rise in levels of norepinephrine enhances mood and focus.
The SNRIs haven't been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD However, certain doctors prescribe them as an alternative stimulant. They are typically taken orally as pills, however, they can also be taken as patches or liquids. In April 2021 the FDA approved an oral SNRI called viloxazine (Qelbree) to treat ADHD in adolescents and children. It is not the potential to be abused, so it is not classified as a controlled substance.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs are antidepressants that affect the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. They are prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders but also aid in the management of ADHD symptoms. A number of studies have proven that SNRI medications, such as venlafaxine and duloxetine, can significantly lower the scores of different ADHD tests. SNRIs can raise blood pressure or interact with other medications. Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking these drugs. Furthermore, improperly discarded medication can harm people and animals, so it is important to follow the correct disposal guidelines.
SSRIs and SNRIs aren't approved by the FDA to treat ADHD however, doctors are able to prescribe these medications off-label. They are safe and effective, and have fewer adverse effects than stimulants. Talk to your doctor about your child's symptoms and discuss the pros and cons of these medications.
SNRIs may not be suitable for all people. Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid taking SNRIs as they may be absorbed through breast milk. Those with liver or blood pressure issues should not be taking them, either, as they could increase the risk of developing cardiovascular problems.
Selective dopamine reuptake inhibitors (DARPIs)
Many people who suffer from ADHD take medication to improve their concentration and attention. Some people might also notice a decrease in their impulsive behavior. Medication is usually combined with behavior therapy and training, which helps people learn to control their symptoms. It takes time to find the right medication and dose for each person. In this process, doctors observe physical reactions to find the optimal balance of benefits and side effects.
Stimulant drugs, such as methylphenidate can increase the activity of a certain brain chemicals that control memory and concentration. Although they are generally effective and safe for most people, they can trigger serious side effects such as diminished appetite and sleep problems. These side effects typically go away within some weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.
Non-stimulant medicines are also available for children and adults. They might take longer to take effect, but they can improve the ability to control impulses and concentration. They can include alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists (atomoxetine viloxazine) and guanfacine hydrochloride.
best adhd medication can also be effective in treating ADHD. They can boost norepinephrine levels which is a neurotransmitter within the brain that aids in mood swings and depression. Bupropion, a depressant, has been used to treat ADHD. It was prescribed "off-label" however, drug companies developed extended-release versions, and the FDA approved the use of it as treatment.