ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medication is the primary ingredient for ADHD treatment, but they do not work for everyone. Antidepressants and other nonstimulant drugs can help.
Adults suffering from ADHD can take medications or patches, or even liquids. They can improve concentration and decrease impulsive behavior. best medication for adhd are prescribed by a doctor if stimulants do not work or cause side-effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is an atomoxetine brand name, is an effective ADHD medication for adults. Unlike stimulant medications like Adderall which boost dopamine and norepinephrine availability in the brain to lessen ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director at Mindpath Health, says that Strattera does not cause you to feel energized or increase anxiety. It can help control the impulsive behavior without causing more the jitteriness. He adds that atomoxetine is an excellent option for people who have specific medical reasons for avoiding stimulants, for example, a history of seizures or improperly managed glaucoma or those who are concerned about substance abuse issues.
Strattera is categorized by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor an antidepressant that alters the brain's use of Norepinephrine. Dr. Zand notes that Strattera is typically prescribed to treat depression however, it can also be used to treat ADHD. It can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from an underlying condition like ADHD with anxiety. It is usually prescribed in smaller doses initially and then gradually increased according to the weight and age of the patient.
The most common side effect is drowsiness. Other typical side effects include nausea and changes in appetite. Strattera is a drug that interacts with many other medications including stimulants. It should not be taken along with clonidine, or other drugs that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to take effect than stimulants and can take up to 24 hours to disappear. Doctors may recommend combining Strattera and stimulants to increase the effects. For instance, you could add Adderall and Ritalin. This isn't a common practice and should only be done with the advice of a medical professional. The FDA has also issued a black-box warning on Strattera warning that the drug can cause serious and possibly fatal liver problems in some people.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is an ADHD medication that falls within the class of drugs known as central nervous system stimulants. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy an illness of sleep that is characterised by excessive daytime sleepiness as well as sudden periods of sleep. Methlphenidate is a drug that alters the amount of certain natural substances in your brain. This medication is only available through a prescription.
Stimulants help by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. The majority of people with ADHD choose these drugs as their first choice. However, they can cause negative side effects like insomnia, stomach upset and trouble with concentration. Speak to your doctor when you experience side effects. If they are severe the doctor may recommend a different medicine for you.
It is essential to tell your doctor if you or your child is taking methylphenidate. Certain medicines may interact with methylphenidate and result in dangerous side effects. Inform your doctor if you've ever suffered from seizures, depression, or other mental health issues.
Some people with ADHD find that methylphenidate is not effective in helping them. In this case your doctor may suggest alternative ADHD medications, like lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine. Psychological treatments such as behavioural therapy can also be helpful for some people suffering from ADHD.
Methlphenidate can be found in both short-acting tablets and long-acting tablets. The short-acting tablet starts working within a matter of hours. It is taken two or three times a day for a 24-hour effect. Long-acting tablets are released into your bloodstream slower and last longer. Some patients are allergic the chemical methylphenidate. Your physician will check for this allergy before prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant drugs are the first-choice treatment for ADHD however, they can cause negative side effects that are difficult to manage. Adults who are unable to take stimulant medications, or are not responsive to them, could benefit from nonstimulant medication. They help increase the capacity to focus, control impulses and reduce hyperactivity in those with ADHD. These drugs build up slowly within the body. This allows the medication to work for a long period of time, and also keeps symptoms from recurring when the drug wears off. These medications are usually taken as pills or capsules and are available in a variety of strengths. Certain medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. It is common for people to try several medications before settling on one that works best for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been FDA approved to treat ADHD both in children and adults. It is part of a class of medications known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of medications increases the levels of norepinephrine, which helps to decrease impulsivity and increase concentration. It is also less likely to cause adverse effects such as agitation and anxiety than other stimulant medications.
Before beginning any new medication, it's essential to speak with your doctor. It is possible that you will not notice any changes in your symptoms for a few weeks, however, you should continue taking the medication according to your doctor's instructions. Your doctor will be monitoring you and make adjustments to your dosage as required.
These antidepressants haven't been tested specifically for ADHD. These drugs are prescribed to patients who suffer from anxiety, depression and who are unable to tolerate stimulants or have a substance abuse history. Bupropion, a popular off-label medication, has been proved to be effective for certain people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
It's your choice to decide whether or not to start taking medications as an adult with ADHD. About 70%-80% of people who are prescribed medications find significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it's important to discuss the benefits and risks of all treatments with your doctor prior to making the decision. If you decide to take medication to treat ADHD the dosage and schedule might alter as time passes.
Stimulants, the most common treatment for ADHD, work by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. However there are several alternatives to nonstimulants for people who are struggling with stimulants due health issues or serious adverse reactions. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug approved for ADHD, and it is a stimulant that works on norepinephrine within the brain to increase focus and attention. Another antidepressant called venlafaxine (Effexor) can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms, though more studies are needed to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in addition to the medications listed above can help you overcome negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to ADHD. In sessions, you'll develop skills like moderation, reassessing all-or-nothing thinking, and reducing negative self-talk. You can practice CBT as a solo or in a group.
Bupropion is an antidepressant that can be prescribed off-label for treating ADHD. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, which improves mood and concentration. Wellbutrin is typically taken in three daily doses of 150 mg up to 450 mg. However, your doctor may start with a lower dose. You should not use Wellbutrin in the event that you have a history of seizure disorders, eating disorders, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Venlafaxine, also known as Effexor, is an antidepressant which is also effective for treating ADHD. It functions similarly to stimulants by altering levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. It's not FDA approved as an treatment for ADHD but it is often prescribed off-label, particularly when stimulant medications cause side effects that are unpalatable or are contraindicated. Other antidepressants, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) can improve ADHD symptoms in some people.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both medications work by increasing norepinephrine and serotonin levels in the brain, improving communication between nerve cells. They also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity, making them an ideal choice for people with ADHD who are depressed or anxious.
Some stimulant drugs can increase the risk of heart issues for young people and high school students, which is why nonstimulant ADHD drugs have become increasingly popular with those groups as well. Atomoxetine, or Strattera, increases norepinephrine. Guanfacine and clonidine affect alpha-2 receptors in the mind to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the right option for everyone with ADHD However, some people find that their effectiveness decreases with time. The most effective solution for you will depend on your medical history, family genetics and the response to medications. Many people who suffer from ADHD will test several different drugs to determine the one that is most effective for themselves. It's also normal to need to adjust your dosage as you progress. This is particularly relevant when changes in your life are significant. Talk to your doctor to find out more about the most effective medications for your particular situation. Then, you can pick the ones that can allow you to live your life to the fullest.