When determining the right medication for treating your Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), your doctor will have the best idea of the right drug for your particular situation. However, it is important for you to be aware of your options.

Stimulant drugs are the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD, but non-stimulant options are available as well. Let’s look at some of the differences between these two:

• Stimulant drugs. These are the medications you’ve probably heard about the most. They include: Adderall, Concerta, Dexedrine, Ritalin, Vyvanse and others. Stimulant drugs work by increasing levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine. These brain chemicals help transmit signals between nerves, therefore increasing attention span and focus. Stimulant drugs are not recommended for people with high anxiety, glaucoma, or nervousness, as this type of drug may exacerbate those symptoms.
• Non-stimulant drugs. These medications are an alternative to stimulant drugs for treating ADHD. Newer to the drug market, these include Strattera and Intuniv. Non-stimulant drugs simply provide another option for those who are either unable to take stimulant drugs or who have experienced severe side effects with them. Strattera, like stimulant drugs, also increases the production of norepinephrine in the brain. Intuniv affects certain brain receptors to control specific symptoms of ADHD. Additional benefits to non-stimulants are that they have not been shown to cause agitation or sleep problems, they don’t pose the risk for addiction, and their effects tend to last longer.

Solace CounselingAs with any medicinal options, be sure that you discuss all of your concerns regarding prescription medications with your doctor. It’s also important that no matter what medicine your doctor prescribes for you, you take it exactly as directed. Sticking to your doctor’s instructions will optimize your results and minimize your chances for side effects. For more information about ADHD treatment, drug therapies or behavioral therapies, contact Solace Counseling. We can help create a customized plan for your individual needs. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.