Stimulant medications are most commonly prescribed and are known for their effectiveness in reducing many of the symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These medications can be associated with some side effects, however, and they do not address the needs of every person with ADHD. To determine which medication is best for you or your loved one, it is wise to learn about all the medication alternatives available to treat ADHD before beginning any treatment protocol.
Strattera
Strattera, also known by its generic name atomoxetine, is the first and only non-stimulant medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating ADHD. Strattera works by elevating the levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine that transmits nerve impulses. Strattera is considered to be less effective than stimulant medications with regards to treating hyperactivity but is considered an alternative for those that cannot tolerate their side effects. Because Strattera lasts for 24 hours, much longer than stimulant medications, the "roller coaster" effect associated with medications wearing off does not occur. Straterra also has some antidepressant properties, which make it a popular option for people who display symptoms of depression together with ADHD.
Strattera carries a warning label that it can cause increased suicidal thoughts in some children and adolescents, particularly if the child has a bipolar or depression diagnosis together with ADHD. Because of this, parents should be prepared to call a doctor if the child exhibits increased thoughts of suicide or mood shifts.
Blood Pressure Medications
Some blood pressure medications, such as clonidine (Catapres) and guanfacine (Tenex), are also used to treat people with ADHD, but similar to the other alternatives discussed above, they are not considered as effective as stimulants when it comes to attention problems and are usually tried only after stimulants have failed to produce effective results.
However, people who have tics or Tourette's syndrome in addition to ADHD have found symptom relief using these types of medications. The way blood pressure medications work is not clearly known, but it appears that they have a calming effect on certain parts of the brain. Patients with a history of low blood pressure or heart problems should not take these medications.
Antidepressants
For people who have a diagnosis of both ADHD and depression, antidepressants known for targeting multiple brain neurotransmitters are often prescribed. Examples include Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine, desipramine, amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and clomipramine. Antidepressants will also be prescribed if Strattera or stimulant medications fail to produce positive results; however, they are not considered as effective as stimulants or Strattera at treating attention span and concentration challenges associated with ADHD.
