Living with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ), as we all know it, can be challenging at times. Whether it's a child or an adult, this condition can make it difficult to manage daily activities. Azstarys is a relatively new drug used to treat ADHD. Today, we'll talk about this drug in simple terms, how it works, how to use it, and everything in between.
How does this medicine work for ADHD?
ADHD is simply a brain condition that affects a person's behavior. The main symptoms are difficulty paying attention, fidgeting, and impulsiveness. The condition is most common in young children and adolescents, and many of them continue to have the condition into adulthood. When a child has ADHD, it can affect schoolwork and relationships with others. In adults, it can also affect work and personal relationships.
Azstarys is a Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine . These chemicals help control things like our attention and behavior. So when these levels are increased, they can help control ADHD symptoms.
How should I use this medicine?
Azstarys should be taken once a day, in the morning . It can be taken with or without food. It comes in the form of a capsule.
- You can swallow the capsule whole with water .
- Alternatively, you can carefully open the capsule and dissolve the powder inside in 50 ml of water (about two large medicine cups) and drink it.
- Another method is to add this medicine powder to two tablespoons of applesauce and swallow the mixture.
It is very important that if you mix the medicine in water or applesauce, you should use it within 10 minutes . Do not mix it and use it later.
This medicine comes in several doses. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate dose for you or your child based on their age and condition. Never change the dose your doctor has prescribed or give this medicine to others.
How quickly does this medicine start working and how long does it last?
This is what's so special about Azstarys. It's actually a combination of two medications: dexmethylphenidate and serdexmethylphenidate .
- The component called dexmethylphenidate starts working quickly and starts controlling symptoms.
- The part called Serdexmethylphenidate works slowly , helping to maintain the effect of the medicine throughout the day.
According to research , Azstarys usually starts working within 30 minutes of taking the pill, and its effects last for about 13 hours . This helps a child stay focused from the time they go to school in the morning until the evening.
What are the possible side effects? What can be done about them?
Like any medicine, Azstarys can cause some side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Let's look at the most common side effects and how to manage them.
| Side effect | How to manage? |
|---|---|
| Loss of appetite and weight loss | This is a problem that many mothers have. Instead of feeding a large amount at once, feed your baby small amounts of food several times a day. Feed them light foods like rice, bread, and crackers. If you feel like you are losing too much weight, tell your doctor immediately . |
| Insomnia | Always take your medicine in the morning . Taking it during the day can make it difficult to fall asleep at night. Reduce screen time (phone, tablet) before bed. Set a bedtime and wake up time. |
| Nausea, vomiting, stomach ache | This condition may be reduced if you take the medicine with food. If you vomit, drink plenty of water. If these symptoms persist, talk to your doctor. |
| Increased heart rate and blood pressure | Your doctor will check your or your child's heart rate and blood pressure regularly before starting this medicine and while you are taking it. Let him or her know if you have any problems. |
| Anxiety, irritability, mood swings | If you experience these symptoms, it's important to talk to your doctor about them. Exercising, eating a balanced diet, and following a routine can help manage these conditions. |
If any of these side effects become severe or persist, be sure to inform your doctor . He or she may be able to change the dosage or provide another solution.
What other special things should you know about this medicine?
Risk of Addiction: This is a very important point. Azstarys is a drug with a high potential for addiction and abuse. This means that some people may be tempted to misuse it. Therefore, this drug should only be used under the supervision of a doctor .
- Do not share medication with others for any reason . Medication prescribed for you or your child may not be suitable for someone else.
- Always keep medicine in a safe place, locked up if possible .
- Properly dispose of unused, leftover, or expired medications. The best way to do this is through a medicine take-back program at a hospital or some pharmacies. If you can't find one, mix the medication powder with a substance like used coffee grounds, cat litter, or soil, put it in a sealable plastic bag, and put it in the trash.
Will this cause problems with other medications? (Drug Interactions)
Yes, Azstarys can interact with some medications. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about any other medications (even vitamins) you or your child are taking.
- MAOI medications: Taking Azstarys with a type of medication called an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor), which is used to treat depression and Parkinson's disease, is very dangerous. This can cause a very high blood pressure (hypertensive crisis). Do not start Azstarys until at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI medication.
- Blood Pressure Medicines: Azstarys may reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medications.
- Anesthesia: If you are going to have anesthesia for any surgery, tell your doctor. It is generally not recommended to take Azstarys on the day of surgery.
- Risperidone: If Azstarys is taken with risperidone, a medication used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia , some side effects may occur when the dosage is changed.
Therefore, for your safety, give your doctor a complete description of all medications you are taking.
Take-Home Message
- Azstarys is a medication that treats ADHD, works quickly and throughout the day.
- Always take this once a day in the morning , as directed by your doctor.
- Side effects such as loss of appetite and insomnia may occur. If they are severe or persist, inform your doctor immediately.
- Because there is a risk of addiction to this medication, always keep it in a safe place and do not share it with others.
- It is essential to inform the doctor about all other medications you or your child are taking.
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