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Uncategorized Archives - Universal Drugstore

This article breaks down the costs associated with GLP-1 drugs and what to consider. You can also explore the options available

Understanding the Real Cost of GLP-1 Medications

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Universal Drugstore

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Jamie Winn, Pharm D.

They target different parts of the flu virus lifecycle, which explains their varying effectiveness profiles.

Xofluza vs Tamiflu: Key Differences in Flu Treatment Effectiveness

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Your body produces GLP-1 in specialized cells called L-cells. These cells are found mainly in your small intestine and colon

How Does GLP-1 Work?

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Oral GLP-1 medications are a new class of weight loss and diabetes pills that work like the hormone GLP-1 in your body.

Oral GLP-1 Medications: Everything You Need to Know About the New Weight Loss Pills

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Despite it being sometimes referred to as one, Zepbound is not just a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which includes medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.

Is Zepbound a GLP-1? Understanding Its Role in Weight Loss and More

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Understanding GLP-1 Medications: A Complete Guide to Ozempic and Other Options

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GLP-1 receptor agonists have become some of the most talked-about [&hellip;]

Mounjaro: Unlocking the Science Behind This Revolutionary GLP-1 and GIP Receptor Agonist

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The world of pharmaceuticals is constantly evolving, bringing forth new [&hellip;]

Treatment length depends on your response in the first 12 to 24 weeks, your BMI, weight-related health conditions, and side effects.

How Long Can You Take Qsymia?

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Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate) is an FDA-approved prescription medication for chronic weight management in certain people with obesity or who are overweight with weight-related health conditions.

How to Get a Qsymia Prescription

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Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate) often begins to work within the first 1 to 2 weeks, mainly due to the phentermine component.

When Does Qsymia Start Working?

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yridoxine hydrochloride is a commonly used form of vitamin B6 found in foods, multivitamins, and dietary supplements.

Is Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Bad for You?

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Diclegis is a delayed-release medication used to treat nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP). It does not work immediately and is meant to build up over time, not relieve sudden nausea.

How Long Does Diclectin Take to Work?

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Pyridoxine is a form of vitamin B6, a water-soluble vitamin essential for metabolism, nervous system function, and red blood cell production.

What Is the Function of Pyridoxine?

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TrumpRx (TrumpRx.gov) is a federal government–hosted platform from the Trump administration designed to help patients find lower prices on certain prescription medications.

Comparing Universal Drugstore and TrumpRx.

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Yes, Relpax (eletriptan) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) can usually be taken together for acute migraine attacks.

Can You Take Relpax and Tylenol Together?

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Yes, Relpax (eletriptan) and ibuprofen can usually be taken together for acute migraine attacks.

Can You Take Relpax With Ibuprofen?

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Relpax (eletriptan hydrobromide) has a half-life of about 4 hours, meaning most of the drug leaves your system within 24 hours.

How Long Does Relpax Stay in Your System?

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Remeron (mirtazapine) is not a controlled substance in the United States.It is an FDA-approved antidepressant medication. Find out more.

Is Remeron a Controlled Substance?

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Remeron (mirtazapine) may improve sleep issues and appetite within the first 1 to 2 weeks, especially at a low dose.

How Long Does It Take for Remeron to Work?

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Yes, weight gain is considered a common side effect of mirtazapine (Remeron), largely due to increased appetite and cravings.

Does Remeron Cause Weight Gain?

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Renvela is a brand name for sevelamer carbonate, so it is a type of sevelamer, but it is not identical to all sevelamer products.

Is Renvela the Same as Sevelamer?

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Renvela tablets are generally not meant to be crushed unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.

Can Renvela Be Crushed?

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Sodium bicarbonate helps regulate acid-base balance by neutralizing excess acids in the body.

What Does Sodium Bicarbonate Do in the Body?

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Did you know Rytary can cause drowsiness in some people with Parkinson’s disease. Read our blog for the full breakdown.

Does Rytary Make You Sleepy?

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Yes, Rytary can cause hallucinations in some people, especially older adults and those with advanced Parkinson’s disease.

Can Rytary Cause Hallucinations?

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Savella (milnacipran) is not commonly linked with weight gain, and some fibromyalgia patients may experience weight loss instead.

Does Savella Cause Weight Gain?

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Savella is a brand-name prescription drug used to treat fibromyalgia, and it can be expensive without insurance coverage.

Why Is Savella So Expensive?

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Singulair is not an antihistamine and works differently from common allergy medications like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra.

Is Singulair an Antihistamine?

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Singulair (montelukast) is not classified as a sedating medication, but some people report drowsiness or tiredness while taking it.

Does Singulair Make You Sleepy?

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Singulair (montelukast) does not work immediately and is not used to treat acute asthma attacks.

How Long Does Singulair Take to Work?

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Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda, can be helpful in small amounts but harmful if misused or in large amounts.

Is Sodium Bicarbonate Bad for You?

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Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) can be used as an over-the-counter antacid for short-term relief of heartburn and acid indigestion.

How to Take Sodium Bicarbonate

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Ventolin HFA does not contain steroids. Ventolin HFA is a short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) bronchodilator used as a rescue inhaler.

Does Ventolin HFA Have Steroids in It?

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Ventolin HFA (albuterol sulfate) is a rescue inhaler meant for quick relief, not scheduled daily control.

How Often Can I Use Ventolin HFA?

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Veozah (fezolinetant) is FDA-approved to treat moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats.

Does Veozah Help With Mood Swings?

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Insurance coverage for Veozah varies by insurance plan, insurance provider, and whether prior authorization is required.

Is Veozah Covered by Insurance?

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<h2>What is menopause?</h2>
<a data-wpil="url" href="/blog/your-guide-to-menopause-all-your-menopause-questions-answered/">Menopause</a> is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It occurs when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, the hormones regulating menstruation. Menopause is diagnosed after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. In the United States, the average age of natural menopause is around 51 years. When menopause occurs before age 45, it is called early menopause; before age 40, it is considered premature menopause.

The transition leading up to menopause, called perimenopause, may last several years and is characterized by menstrual irregularities and symptoms such as hot flashes. Common symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, and increased risk of <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/osteoporosis" title="Osteoporosis" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="976">osteoporosis</a>. Menopause can also be induced surgically or by certain medical treatments.
<h2>What causes menopause?</h2>
Menopause results primarily from the natural decline in ovarian hormone production. Other causes include:
<ul>
 	<li>Oophorectomy: Surgical removal of the ovaries causes immediate menopause and often severe symptoms due to abrupt hormonal changes.</li>
 	<li>Chemotherapy and radiation therapy: Treatments for cancer can induce menopause during or shortly after therapy.</li>
 	<li>Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI): In about 1% of women, ovarian function fails before age 40, often for unknown or genetic reasons.</li>
 	<li>Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus alone does not immediately cause menopause; however, removal of both uterus and ovaries does.</li>
</ul>
<h2>What are the signs and symptoms of menopause?</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Hot flashes: Sudden warmth, often over the face, neck, and chest, followed by sweating and chills.</li>
 	<li>Night sweats: Hot flashes during sleep, leading to disrupted rest.</li>
 	<li>Irregular periods: During perimenopause, cycles may become shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter.</li>
 	<li>Mood changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, or risk of <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/depression" title="Depression" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="975">depression</a>.</li>
 	<li>Vaginal dryness: Reduced lubrication and thinning of vaginal tissues, which can cause discomfort during intercourse.</li>
 	<li>Sleep problems: Insomnia or poor sleep quality, often related to night sweats.</li>
 	<li>Thinning hair and dry skin: Changes in hormone levels can affect skin and hair health.</li>
 	<li>Bladder control issues: Loss of tissue elasticity can lead to incontinence or urgency.</li>
 	<li>Weight gain and slowed metabolism: Hormonal shifts can make weight management more difficult.</li>
 	<li>Osteoporosis: Lower estrogen levels contribute to bone density loss.</li>
 	<li>Cholesterol changes: Menopause may increase LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, raising cardiovascular risk.</li>
</ul>
If any vaginal bleeding occurs after menopause, seek medical attention immediately.
<h2>How is menopause diagnosed?</h2>
Diagnosis is based on menstrual history and symptoms. A woman who has not menstruated for 12 months is considered menopausal, unless menopause was induced surgically or by treatments. Blood tests may include:
<ul>
 	<li>Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Levels rise as ovarian function declines.</li>
 	<li>Estrogen: Levels fall during the transition.</li>
 	<li>Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Measured if thyroid disorders are suspected.</li>
</ul>
<h2>How is menopause treated?</h2>
Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and reduce long-term risks:
<ul>
 	<li>Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Effective for hot flashes, night sweats, and osteoporosis prevention; carries some risks and requires individualized assessment.</li>
 	<li>Vaginal estrogen: Administered as a cream, tablet, or ring to alleviate dryness and urinary symptoms.</li>
 	<li>Low-dose antidepressants: Certain SSRIs can reduce hot flashes.</li>
 	<li>Gabapentin: Originally for seizures, can also help with vasomotor symptoms.</li>
 	<li>Clonidine: A blood pressure medication that may ease hot flashes.</li>
 	<li>Osteoporosis treatments: <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/medications/calcium" title="Calcium" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="3015">Calcium</a>, vitamin D, and medications to strengthen bone.</li>
 	<li>Lifestyle changes: Stress reduction (yoga, meditation), healthy diet, regular exercise, <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/smoking-cessation" title="Smoking Cessation" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="977">smoking cessation</a>, and layered clothing for hot flashes.</li>
</ul>
<h2>What is postmenopause?</h2>
Postmenopause begins 12 months after the final menstrual period. While many symptoms improve, some women continue experiencing hot flashes and other effects for years. Lower estrogen levels increase the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
<h2>How long does menopause typically last?</h2>
Perimenopause can begin up to 10 years before the final period, often in the 40s. Once 12 consecutive months without menstruation have passed, a woman is postmenopausal. Surgical removal of ovaries causes immediate menopause.
<h2>Sources</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Menopause basics. Office on Women’s Health. Accessed Apr. 11, 2024.</li>
 	<li>Menopausal symptoms: In depth. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Accessed Apr. 11, 2024.</li>
 	<li>Menopause. National Institutes of Health. Accessed Apr. 11, 2024.</li>
 	<li>What is Menopause? National Institute on Aging. Accessed Apr. 11, 2024.</li>
</ul>

Menopause

Some people may notice weight changes during menopause for reasons unrelated to Veozah, including hormonal shifts, sleep disruption, and lifestyle factors.

Does Veozah Cause Weight Gain?

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Vesicare (solifenacin succinate) is not known to directly cause weight gain, and weight gain is not listed as a common side effect in FDA labeling.

Can Vesicare Cause Weight Gain?

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Vesicare (solifenacin succinate) does not work immediately; most people notice improvement in overactive bladder symptoms within 1 to 2 weeks.

How Long Does It Take for Vesicare to Work?

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Vesicare (solifenacin) is an anticholinergic medication used for overactive bladder (OAB), urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and urinary incontinence.

Does Vesicare Cause Dementia?

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Vitamin B12 injections are commonly prescribed by a healthcare provider to treat vitamin B12 deficiency, anemia, or pernicious anemia.

Where Do You Get Vitamin B12 Injections?

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How often you can get vitamin B12 injections depends on your vitamin B12 levels, the cause of deficiency, and your treatment plan.

How Often Can You Get Vitamin B12 Injections?

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Vitamin B12 injections are used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency and related conditions such as anemia and nerve-related symptoms.

What Are Vitamin B12 Injections For?

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Find out the reasons you may want to take a probiotic during Xifaxan treatment and and the conditions it can treat

Should I Take a Probiotic While Taking Xifaxan?

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Yes, Xifaxan (rifaximin) can cause diarrhea, although it is more commonly prescribed to treat certain types of diarrhea, such as traveler’s diarrhea caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) and IBS-D (irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea).

Can Xifaxan Cause Diarrhea?

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Vytorin is a combination cholesterol-lowering medication that contains simvastatin (a statin) and ezetimibe (a cholesterol absorption inhibitor).

Is Vytorin a Statin Drug?

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<h2>High Cholesterol Causes and Treatments</h2>
Around 2 in 5 adults in the U.S. have high cholesterol (total blood cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL). High levels of cholesterol put you at risk for serious complications such as coronary heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death in America.

High cholesterol has no signs or symptoms, so the only way to know if you have it is to get your cholesterol levels checked. Your risk factors and previous test results will determine how often you should have it measured.
<h2>What is high cholesterol?</h2>
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of your body and is essential for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods. However, too much cholesterol in your blood (hyperlipidemia) can increase your risk of heart disease and <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/stroke" title="Stroke" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="992">stroke</a>.

Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream in lipoproteins, which are made of fat (lipids) and proteins. The two main types are:
<ul>
 	<li><strong>Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL):</strong> Often called "bad cholesterol," high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing heart attack and stroke risk.</li>
 	<li><strong>High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL):</strong> Known as "good cholesterol," HDL helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream, taking it to the liver for processing and elimination.</li>
</ul>
Triglycerides, another blood fat, are also measured. High triglyceride levels can further increase heart disease risk.

High cholesterol can result from a diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol-rich foods; genetics; inactivity; obesity; smoking; and conditions like diabetes, <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/hypothyroidism" title="Hypothyroidism" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="991">hypothyroidism</a>, and kidney disease. It is detected through a lipid panel measuring total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
<h2>What causes high cholesterol?</h2>
High cholesterol arises from genetic, dietary, lifestyle, and medical factors:
<h3>Dietary Factors</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Saturated fats: Red meat, full-fat dairy, palm and coconut oils raise LDL.</li>
 	<li>Trans fats: Found in processed, baked, and fried foods; raise LDL and lower HDL.</li>
 	<li>Dietary cholesterol: Egg yolks, organ meats, shellfish can contribute when consumed in excess.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Genetics</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Familial hypercholesterolemia: Genetic disorder causing very high LDL from a young age.</li>
 	<li>Family history of high cholesterol.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Lifestyle Factors</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Physical inactivity: Lowers HDL and raises LDL.</li>
 	<li><a href="/conditions/weight-loss/">Obesity</a>: Increases LDL and decreases HDL.</li>
 	<li><a href="/conditions/smoking-cessation/">Smoking</a>: Lowers HDL and damages blood vessels.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Medical Conditions</h3>
<ul>
 	<li><a href="/conditions/type-1-diabetes/">Diabetes</a>: Raises LDL and lowers HDL.</li>
 	<li>Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid increases cholesterol.</li>
 	<li>Kidney disease and liver disease: Affect lipid metabolism.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Medications</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Corticosteroids, anabolic steroids, and some <a title="Does aspirin lower blood pressure?" data-wpil="url" href="/blog/does-aspirin-lower-blood-pressure/" data-wpil-monitor-id="114">blood pressure drugs</a> can raise cholesterol.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Other Factors</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Age: Cholesterol rises as you get older.</li>
 	<li>Sex: Women’s LDL rises after <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/menopause" title="Menopause" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="990">menopause</a>.</li>
 	<li>Alcohol: Excessive intake raises cholesterol and triglycerides.</li>
 	<li>Stress: May trigger hormonal changes and poor dietary choices.</li>
</ul>
<h2>How does high cholesterol affect the body?</h2>
<h3>Cardiovascular System</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup hardens and narrows arteries.</li>
 	<li>Coronary artery disease: Plaques in heart arteries cause chest pain and heart attacks.</li>
 	<li>Stroke: Plaques in brain arteries increase stroke risk.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)</h3>
Plaques in limb arteries cause pain and cramping during activity.
<h3>Other Organs</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Kidneys: Reduced blood flow impairs function.</li>
 	<li>Gallbladder: Excess cholesterol in bile can form gallstones.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Other Effects</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Xanthomas: Fatty deposits under the skin or around the eyes.</li>
</ul>
High cholesterol reduces quality of life and increases the risk of life-threatening events.
<h2>How is high cholesterol diagnosed?</h2>
Diagnosis requires a lipid panel, a blood test measuring:
<ul>
 	<li>Total cholesterol</li>
 	<li>LDL cholesterol ("bad")</li>
 	<li>HDL cholesterol ("good")</li>
 	<li>Triglycerides</li>
</ul>
You may be asked to fast for 9–12 hours before testing, though some guidelines allow non-fasting panels. Results are interpreted against standard ranges and personal risk factors. Regular screening is important, especially with other cardiovascular risks.
<h2>How is high cholesterol treated?</h2>
<h3>Lifestyle Changes</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Diet: Reduce saturated and trans fats; eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins; increase omega-3s and soluble fiber; use healthy oils.</li>
 	<li>Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly.</li>
 	<li>Weight management: Losing even modest weight can improve levels.</li>
 	<li><a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/smoking-cessation" title="Smoking Cessation" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="993">Smoking cessation</a></li>
 	<li>Moderate alcohol: Up to one drink/day for women, two for men.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Medications</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Statins: Block cholesterol production in the liver (e.g., <a href="/blog/is-atorvastatin-lipitor/">atorvastatin</a>, simvastatin).</li>
 	<li>Cholesterol absorption inhibitors: Reduce intestinal absorption (e.g., ezetimibe).</li>
 	<li>PCSK9 inhibitors: Injectable drugs that enhance LDL clearance (e.g., alirocumab, evolocumab).</li>
 	<li>Bile acid sequestrants: Bind bile acids, forcing the liver to use more cholesterol (e.g., cholestyramine).</li>
 	<li>ACLY inhibitors: Block cholesterol synthesis (e.g., bempedoic acid).</li>
 	<li>Fibrates: Lower triglycerides and raise HDL (e.g., fenofibrate, gemfibrozil).</li>
 	<li>Niacin: Raises HDL and lowers LDL/triglycerides, used less often due to side effects.</li>
 	<li>Prescription omega-3s: Lower triglycerides (e.g., Lovaza).</li>
</ul>
<h3>Medical Procedures</h3>
In rare cases of familial hypercholesterolemia, LDL apheresis filters LDL from the blood, similar to dialysis.
<h2>Monitoring and Follow-Up</h2>
Regular check-ups and lipid panels help ensure treatment effectiveness and adjust therapies as needed to reduce cardiovascular risk.
<h2>Sources</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>What is Cholesterol? American Heart Association. Accessed May 14, 2024.</li>
 	<li>Blood cholesterol. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Accessed May 14, 2024.</li>
 	<li>Lipid Panel. Johns Hopkins Medicine. Accessed May 14, 2024.</li>
 	<li>About Cholesterol. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed May 14, 2024.</li>
 	<li>Cholesterol levels: What You Need to Know. MedlinePlus. Accessed May 14, 2024.</li>
 	<li>Cholesterol Medications. American Heart Association. Accessed May 14, 2024.</li>
</ul>

High Cholesterol

Vytorin is not known to cause weight gain, and weight gain is not listed as a side effect in FDA-reviewed clinical trials.

Does Vytorin Cause Weight Gain?

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How Does Xiidra Work?

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Key Takeaways Xiidra (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) is an FDA-approved prescription [&hellip;]

Although Xiidra does not stay in your bloodstream long, its anti-inflammatory effects on the ocular surface may take several weeks to improve symptoms of dry eye disease.

How Long Does Xiidra Stay in Your System?

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There is no generic version of Xiidra available yet in the U.S., which keeps prices significantly higher than many dry eye treatments

Why Is Xiidra So Expensive?

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Many insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, provide at least partial insurance coverage for Xofluza, but this varies widely by insurer and plan type.

Is Xofluza covered by insurance​

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How Does Xofluza Work?

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Key Takeaways Xofluza (baloxavir marboxil) is an antiviral drug that [&hellip;]

Taking it after 48 hours is less effective because the influenza virus has already multiplied significantly.

What Happens If You Take Xofluza After 48 Hours?

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Yes, Zetia (ezetimibe) can cause muscle pain, but it’s not the most common side effect when Zetia is taken alone.

Does Zetia Cause Muscle Pain?

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Zetia (ezetimibe) is best known for lowering LDL cholesterol by reducing cholesterol absorption in the gut, not for causing eye issues.

Does Zetia Cause Eye Problems?

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Zetia (ezetimibe) is a cholesterol-lowering oral tablet. Weight gain is not a common side effect reported with Zetia, especially when used alone.

Does Zetia Cause Weight Gain?

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&nbsp;
<h2>What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?</h2>
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of young children and adolescents but often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulses, or may be overly active.

Children with ADHD may also struggle with low self-esteem, troubled relationships, and poor performance in school. They often have learning disabilities or other mood and mental health conditions such as anxiety disorder, conduct disorder, <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/depression" title="Depression" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="1035">depression</a>, and substance use disorder. Symptoms sometimes lessen with age, but some people never completely outgrow their ADHD symptoms. They can learn strategies to prevent it from negatively affecting their daily lives.

While treatment will not cure ADHD, it can greatly improve symptoms. Treatment typically involves medications and behavioral interventions. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in managing this condition.
<h2>What types of ADHD are there?</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>Predominantly inattentive ADHD: mainly struggles with attention and organization. Difficulty paying attention, following instructions, and completing tasks. Previously called attention-deficit disorder (ADD).</li>
 	<li>Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD: mainly consists of hyperactive and impulsive behaviors with less inattention.</li>
 	<li>Combined ADHD: symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.</li>
</ul>
<h2>What causes ADHD?</h2>
The exact cause of ADHD is not fully known but is believed to involve a combination of genetic, neurological, environmental, and developmental factors. Some possible causes and risk factors include:
<ul>
 	<li>Genetics: more common if you have family members with ADHD; certain genes that manage neurotransmitters and brain development may contribute.</li>
 	<li>Brain structure and function: differences seen in regions responsible for attention, impulse control, executive functioning, and mood regulation.</li>
 	<li>Neurotransmitter imbalance: imbalances in dopamine and norepinephrine may lead to ADHD symptoms.</li>
 	<li>Other groups at risk: prenatal exposure to tobacco, alcohol, or drugs; premature birth; low birth weight; exposure to toxins like lead; early childhood trauma; high stress; brain injury; <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="/conditions/epilepsy" title="Epilepsy" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="1036">epilepsy</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h2>What are the symptoms of ADHD?</h2>
Symptoms vary by subtype and individual, but generally fall into two groups:
<h3>Inattention symptoms:</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Difficulty listening, daydreaming, or seeming distracted</li>
 	<li>Frequently making careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities</li>
 	<li>Difficulty organizing tasks and activities</li>
 	<li>Avoiding tasks that require sustained focus</li>
 	<li>Frequently losing things</li>
 	<li>Forgetfulness in daily activities (e.g., appointments or chores)</li>
</ul>
<h3>Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms:</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat</li>
 	<li>Inability to remain seated or sit still</li>
 	<li>Short attention span and easily distracted</li>
 	<li>Often “on the go” or acting as if “driven by a motor”</li>
 	<li>Talking excessively</li>
 	<li>Unable to listen to or carry out instructions</li>
 	<li>Difficulty waiting one’s turn</li>
</ul>
Not everyone has all symptoms, and severity can vary. Symptoms may change over time and be influenced by stress and environment. For an ADHD diagnosis, symptoms must be present in more than one setting and significantly impair daily functioning. Consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.
<h2>How do you diagnose ADHD?</h2>
Diagnosing ADHD typically involves a comprehensive assessment by a qualified healthcare provider:
<ul>
 	<li>Medical history: gathering developmental, medical, and family history; interviewing caregivers or significant others.</li>
 	<li>Symptom assessment: using DSM-5 criteria or ADHD rating scales completed by the individual, parents, teachers, or observers.</li>
 	<li>Physical exam: ruling out other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms.</li>
 	<li>Psychological testing: assessing cognitive functioning, academic achievement, and related factors when needed.</li>
 	<li>Observational assessment: observing behavior in different settings such as home, school, or social situations.</li>
</ul>
For children, at least 6 symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity must have persisted for 6 months, started before age 12, and appeared in at least two settings. For adults, 5 or more symptoms are required. Symptoms must impair social, academic, or occupational functioning and not be better explained by another condition.
<h2>How do you treat ADHD?</h2>
ADHD treatment can include:
<h3>ADHD Medications:</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Stimulant medications: increase dopamine and norepinephrine (e.g., methylphenidate, amphetamine-based products).</li>
 	<li>Non-stimulant medications: alternatives when stimulants are ineffective or not tolerated (e.g., atomoxetine, guanfacine).</li>
 	<li>Antidepressants: sometimes prescribed alone or with other ADHD medications.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Psychotherapy:</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Behavioral therapy (CBT, behavior management) for coping strategies, organization, and emotional regulation.</li>
 	<li>Parent training programs to improve behavior management and communication.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Educational Interventions:</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Accommodations such as extra test time, preferential seating, and individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans.</li>
 	<li>Classroom strategies like breaking tasks into smaller steps, visual aids, and positive reinforcement.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Lifestyle Modifications:</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Regular exercise to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.</li>
 	<li>Healthy sleep habits, including consistent schedules and calming bedtime routines.</li>
 	<li>Balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Support Services:</h3>
<ul>
 	<li>Support groups for emotional support, advice, and resources.</li>
 	<li>Occupational therapy or tutoring for organizational and planning skills.</li>
</ul>
Work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments help ensure effectiveness and manage side effects.
<h2>Sources</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>What is ADHD? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Accessed Apr. 9, 2024.</li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd">Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).</a> Accessed Apr. 9, 2024.</li>
 	<li><a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd">What is ADHD? American Psychiatric Association.</a> Accessed Apr. 9, 2024.</li>
 	<li><a href="https://chadd.org/about-adhd/">About ADHD — Overview. CHADD.</a> Accessed Apr. 9, 2024.</li>
</ul>

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is a long-acting ADHD medication that can work up to about 14 hours in many adults, though timing varies person to person.

How Long Does Vyvanse Last?

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Vyvanse and Adderall are both stimulant medications used for the treatment of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)

Is Vyvanse Better Than Adderall?

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Vyvanse can be addictive. It’s a Schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for misuse, physical dependence, and addiction.

Is Vyvanse Addictive?

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Taking Lumigan at night improves tolerability for daily routines and contact lens wearers.

Why Is Lumigan Taken at Night?

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Cymbalta (duloxetine) can cause sleepiness or drowsiness, especially when first starting the medication or when increasing the dose

Does Cymbalta Make You Sleepy?

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Regular Mucinex (guaifenesin) is generally safe for people with high blood pressure, as it is an expectorant, not a decongestant.

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