While the majority of ADHD drugs available on the market are stimulant medications, some adults and parents of children with ADD or ADHD would prefer to avoid this type of drug. Luckily, there are many other courses of ADHD treatment available, whether you're looking for an alternative drug option, non-drug option or a mixture of both. Read more about these treatments to decide what's best for you or your child.
Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is one of the most recent ADHD drugs on the market and remains the only non-stimulant drug approved for the treatment of the condition. Where other ADHD drugs are stimulants, Strattera is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. (See the link below to learn more about norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline.)
Strattera affects the brain differently than stimulant medications. Since it is not a stimulant, its effects are in place at all times (unlike many stimulant medications that will wear off after a certain amount of time).
As with many other psychological drugs, Strattera has number of potential physical, emotional and sexual side affects. Check out the links in "Resources" for more information about this drug and talk to your doctor if considering it for yourself or your child.
Diet and Lifestyle
Many people with ADHD experience positive results by treating their symptoms with changes in their diet and lifestyle. In his books, "Driven to Distraction" and "Delivered from Distraction," therapist and ADHD guru Dr. Edward Hallowell recommends a daily regimen of physical exercise, as well as regularly taking supplement forms of Omega 3 fatty acids as ways to help combat the troublesome symptoms of ADD and ADHD.
Hallowell also recommends a balanced diet. In addition, a high-protein diet and even blood sugar can help someone with ADHD, according to an article in ADDItude magazine (see link below).
Coaching and Therapy
Other treatments for ADHD include different types of behavioral therapy and coaching. For ADHD patients looking for something a little more intense than the advice they can find in books and articles, ADD/ADHD therapists and coaches can help an adult or child with the disorders learn to reorganize his or her life and relationships by working one-on-one and helping the patient learn new methods of coping and counteracting the problems that come with this condition.
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