Antihyperkinetic

Antihyperkinetic agents are a class of pharmaceutical drugs used to treat hyperkinetic disorders, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These drugs work by reducing overactivity or improving the ability to pay attention, thereby helping to control the symptoms of these disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Antihyperkinetic agents work by altering the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating attention and activity levels. By increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters, antihyperkinetic agents can help to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity.

Types of Antihyperkinetic Agents

There are several types of antihyperkinetic agents, including stimulants, non-stimulants, and other medications.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed type of antihyperkinetic agent. They include drugs such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine (Adderall, Vyvanse). Despite their name, stimulants have a calming effect in individuals with hyperkinetic disorders.

Non-Stimulants

Non-stimulant antihyperkinetic agents include drugs such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv). These drugs can be used as an alternative to stimulants when they are not effective or cause undesirable side effects.

Other Medications

Other medications, such as certain antidepressants and antipsychotics, can also be used to treat hyperkinetic disorders, although they are typically used as a last resort when other treatments have failed.

Side Effects

Like all medications, antihyperkinetic agents can cause side effects. These can include insomnia, decreased appetite, stomach upset, and increased heart rate or blood pressure. However, these side effects are usually mild and can often be managed by adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication.

See Also

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
• Pharmacotherapy
• Neurotransmitter
• Stimulant
• Non-stimulant