Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder, also known as ADHD, is a common psychological ailment that typically manifests during childhood. Children with this condition have problems with hyperactive behavior and with staying focused, which can lead to many behavioral and educational problems. Although many of the medications used to treat this condition are stimulants, there are several non-stimulant options available to treat children with ADHD who also suffer from agitation or anxiety.
Atomextine
Atomoxetine, which is sold under the brand name Strattera, is one of the main non-stimulant medications that can be used for the treatment of ADHD, Keep Kids Healthy notes. This medication works by blocking proteins that remove a chemical, norepinephrine, from the synapses in the brain. Synapses are the junctions between neurons; chemicals such as norepinephrine can trigger neuronal activity. Having norepinephrine in the synapses for longer periods of time helps increase brain activity, which can counteract the effects of ADHD. Atomexetine is particularly useful for children who experience agitation or anxiety along with ADHD, Keep Kids Healthy explains.
Guanfacine ER
Another non-stimulant medication used to treat agitation and ADHD in children, EMedTV notes, is Guanfacine ER. This medication is known as an alpha-2a adrenergic receptor agonist and is also used as a treatment for high blood pressure. Adrenergic receptors are proteins that respond to the hormone adrenaline, also known as epinephrine; the notation alpha-2a describes a subset of these proteins. The term agonist means that Guanfacine ER is able to mimic the effects of epinephrine on these proteins. It is not known, however, how this medication is able to treat agitation or ADHD. Because this drug also lowers blood pressure, it should not be used for children who have a history of low blood pressure, slowed heart rate or fainting. Guanfacine ER is particularly effective at reducing symptoms of irritability and aggression, the Northern County Psychiatric Associates' website explains.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants can also be used to treat ADHD, the Northern County Psychiatric Associates note. Tricyclic antidepressants, which include despiramine and nortryptiline, have been found to be effective as an alternative to stimulant-based ADHD medications. In addition, another class of antidepressants, known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. may also be used to treat ADHD and agitation. Both of these medications work by subtly altering the brain chemistry and by increasing the amounts of certain chemicals that promote brain activity. This increased brain activity is able to help children focus and can relieve hyperactivity and agitation.
