ADHD Medication Guide: Non-Stimulant Treatment Options
ADHD can be effectively managed with non-stimulant medications. These options provide symptom relief for OhanaDocans without the concerns associated with controlled substances. This guide explains your non-stimulant treatment options.
Non-Stimulant ADHD Medications
OhanaDoc prescribes non-stimulant medications that effectively manage ADHD symptoms:
Atomoxetine (Strattera)
The primary non-stimulant option for ADHD:
- Mechanism: Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
- Benefits: 24-hour coverage, no abuse potential
- Timeline: 4-8 weeks for full effect
- Dosing: Once or twice daily
Alpha-2 Agonists
Originally for blood pressure, now FDA-approved for ADHD:
- Guanfacine ER (Intuniv): Once-daily, helps with impulsivity
- Clonidine ER (Kapvay): Twice-daily, also helps with tics
How These Medications Help
Non-stimulant ADHD medications improve:
- Attention and focus: Sustained concentration on tasks
- Impulse control: Better decision-making, less interrupting
- Hyperactivity: Reduced restlessness and fidgeting
- Working memory: Better retention of information
- Emotional regulation: More stable mood responses
Comparing Non-Stimulant Options
- Best for: Adults and children who can't take stimulants
- Pros: 24-hour coverage, helps with anxiety
- Cons: Takes weeks to work, may cause initial nausea
Guanfacine ER (Intuniv):
- Best for: Hyperactivity and impulsivity
- Pros: Once daily, calm focus, helps with sleep
- Cons: May cause drowsiness, blood pressure effects
Clonidine ER (Kapvay):
- Best for: ADHD with tics or aggression
- Pros: Helps with sleep, reduces tics
- Cons: Twice-daily dosing, sedation possible
Treatment Timeline
Atomoxetine:
- Week 1-2: Gradual dose increase
- Week 3-4: Some improvement begins
- Week 6-8: Full therapeutic effect
Alpha-2 Agonists:
- Week 1: Start low dose
- Week 2-3: Gradual increases
- Week 4-6: Optimal dose reached
Side Effect Management
Atomoxetine common side effects:
- Upset stomach: Take with food
- Decreased appetite: Usually temporary
- Fatigue: May improve with evening dosing
- Mood changes: Monitor and report
Alpha-2 agonist side effects:
- Drowsiness: Usually improves over time
- Low blood pressure: Monitor if symptomatic
- Dry mouth: Stay hydrated
ADHD Treatment
OhanaDoc allows licensed physicians to prescribe non-controlled ADHD medications via telehealth. This provides convenient access to ongoing ADHD management for OhanaDocans.
OhanaDoc ADHD Care
Approach: Comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment
Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to optimize medication and address concerns