Neurological

Clonidine

High Blood Pressure

Clonidine is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain, which relaxes blood vessels and lowers pressure. It may also be prescribed off-label for ADHD, pain syndromes, or withdrawal from opioids, alcohol, or nicotine. Available as oral tablets or a weekly transdermal patch (Catapres-TTS), Clonidine helps reduce the risks of stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage. It must be taken exactly as prescribed and not stopped abruptly, as sudden withdrawal can cause rebound hypertension and other symptoms.

Divalproex

Anticonvulsant/mood stabilizer

Divalproex is a prescription anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer used to treat seizure disorders, bipolar disorder, and to prevent migraine headaches. It works by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain to control abnormal electrical activity and stabilize mood. When taken regularly, divalproex reduces seizure frequency, prevents manic episodes, and lessens migraine occurrence. It must be taken exactly as prescribed and requires regular blood tests to monitor safe levels. Do not stop suddenly, as this can trigger seizures or symptom relapse. Rarely, divalproex can cause liver or pancreatic problems.

Donepezil

Alzheimer's

Donepezil is a prescription cholinesterase inhibitor used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. It works by increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain to improve memory, awareness, and daily functioning. While not a cure, donepezil can slow cognitive decline and enhance quality of life in patients with mild to severe Alzheimer’s disease. Donepezil should be taken exactly as prescribed, usually once daily at bedtime. Mild nausea or diarrhea may occur initially, but often lessens over time. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as symptoms may worsen.

Guanfacine

High Blood Pressure / ADHD

Guanfacine is a prescription medication that contains guanfacine, a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that reduces sympathetic nerve signals in the brain. Depending on the formulation, it is primarily used to treat hypertension by lowering heart rate and relaxing blood vessels, and is also approved for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents, helping improve attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Guanfacine should not be stopped abruptly, as sudden discontinuation can cause rebound hypertension with symptoms such as rapid heart rate, anxiety, and tremors. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and constipation.

Lamotrigine

Epilepsy & Bipolar

Lamotrigine (generic Lamictal) is a prescription anticonvulsant used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. For patients with epilepsy, it helps reduce the frequency of seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. For those with bipolar disorder, Lamotrigine helps delay mood episodes, particularly depression. It is available by prescription only and should be used under a healthcare providers supervision.

Levetiracetam

Epilepsy

Levetiracetam is a prescription anticonvulsant used to treat seizures in patients with epilepsy. It is approved for use in both adults and children, helping control partial-onset, myoclonic, and tonic-clonic seizures by affecting the brain’s electrical activity. It may be used alone or with other seizure medications as directed by a healthcare provider. Levetiracetam is available by prescription only and should be taken under medical supervision.

Memantine

Alzheimer's

Memantine (Namenda XR) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. It works by blocking excess glutamate activity, a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory, which may improve symptoms such as memory, awareness, and the ability to perform daily activities. Memantine is an extended-release form taken once daily, often in combination with other Alzheimer’s treatments. Memantine is available only with a prescription and should be taken under a healthcare providers supervision.

Topiramate

Anticonvulsant / Antiepileptic

Topiramate is a prescription anticonvulsant medication used to treat epilepsy and prevent migraine headaches. It works by calming overactive nerve signals in the brain, which helps reduce seizures and prevent migraines. In addition to its primary uses, Topamax is sometimes prescribed off-label for bipolar disorder, alcohol dependence, or weight management.