ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medication is the primary ingredient for ADHD treatment, but they may not work for everyone. Nonstimulant drugs and antidepressants may help.
Adults who suffer from ADHD could be pills, patches, or liquids. They can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by doctors when stimulants fail to work or cause side-effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera, a brand name for atomoxetine is an effective ADHD medication for adults. In contrast to stimulant drugs like Adderall that increase dopamine and norepinephrine supply to the brain to reduce ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director of Mindpath Health, says that Strattera will not make you feel more energetic or increase anxiety. It is able to control the impulsive behavior without causing more jitteriness. Dr. Khan says that atomoxetine could be a suitable option for those who are worried about the use of substances or have medical reasons to stay away from stimulants.
Strattera is categorized by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine-Reuptake Inhibitor an antidepressant that alters the brain's use of Norepinephrine. It's often prescribed for depression, but it can also be used to treat ADHD as well. It can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from comorbid ADHD and anxiety, according to Dr. Zand. It's typically prescribed at lower doses at first, then increased gradually based on the person's weight and their age.
The most frequently reported adverse effect is drowsiness. Other common effects include nausea and appetite changes. Strattera interacts with a variety of medications including stimulants. It is not recommended to be taken in conjunction with clonidine or other medications that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to take effect and can last up to 24 hours. Doctors may recommend combining Strattera and stimulants to prolong the effects. For example, adding Adderall with Ritalin. This is not a very common practice and should only be done with the advice of a medical professional. Additionally to this, the FDA has a black-box warning on Strattera indicating that it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening liver problems in a few individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is an ADHD medication that is part of the group of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It also treats narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness as well as frequent attacks of sleep). Methlphenidate works by changing the amount of certain natural substances within your brain. It is available only with a prescription.
The stimulants function by increasing and balancing levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are the first choice for people suffering from ADHD. However, they can cause negative side effects like stomach upset, insomnia, and difficulty with concentration. Talk to your doctor about the side effects that you are experiencing. If they are serious, he or she may recommend a different medicine for you.
It is important that you tell your doctor if you or your child is taking methylphenidate. Certain medicines may cause harmful adverse effects when they interact with methylphenidate. You should let your doctor know the history of seizures, depression or other mental health issues.
Some people with ADHD are not responsive to methylphenidate. In this case your doctor might suggest alternative ADHD treatments such as the atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Psychological treatments, such as behavioural therapy may be helpful for some patients suffering from ADHD.
Methlphenidate is available in both short-acting tablets and long-acting tablets. The tablets that are short-acting begin to work within an hour and must be taken 2 or 3 times a day for an effect that is continuous. Long-acting tablets get into your bloodstream more slowly and last longer. Some patients are allergic to the chemical methylphenidate. Your physician will examine you for the presence of this allergy before prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
Although stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD, they can have adverse effects that are difficult to manage. Nonstimulant medications are a good option for adults who cannot take stimulant drugs or are not responsive to them. adhd stimulant medication enhance the capacity of ADHD patients to pay attention, to manage impulses, and to reduce hyperactivity. These drugs work slowly and build up within the body over time. This allows the medication to function over an extended period of time, and also stops the symptoms from recurring after the drug wears off. The medications are typically taken as pills or capsules and are available in a variety of strengths. Some are long-acting and last for up to 16 hours. It is common for patients to try a variety of drugs before settling on one that is most effective for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults and children. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). This class of medication increases norepinephrine levels, which can reduce impulsivity while increasing concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse side effects such as agitation or anxiety as other stimulant medications.
It is essential to speak with your doctor before beginning any new medication. There may not be any change in your symptoms for a few weeks, however, you should keep taking the medication according to your doctor's instructions. Your doctor will track your progress and adjust your dosage as necessary.
A variety of antidepressants are prescribed off-label to treat ADHD however they haven't been specifically tested in studies for this condition. These medications are typically prescribed if you suffer from other mental health issues like depression or anxiety, can't tolerate stimulants, or have an addiction history. Bupropion, an off-label drug, has been proved to be effective for certain people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
It's up to you whether or not you decide to start taking medication as an adult for ADHD. About 70%-80% of people who are prescribed medication experience significant improvement in their symptoms, however it is important to discuss the benefits and risks of any treatment with your physician prior to making an informed decision. If you decide to take medication for ADHD, your dosage and schedule could change as time passes.
Stimulants, the most popular medication 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 side effects. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera is the first approved nonstimulant for ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Another antidepressant known as venlafaxine (Effexor) can help reduce ADHD symptoms, but more studies are needed to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in addition to the medications mentioned above, can help you change bad habits and thoughts that can contribute to ADHD. Through sessions, you'll be taught techniques like moderation as well as reassessing the all-or-nothing mindset and decreasing negative self-talk. You can explore CBT on your alone or in the group.
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that is sometimes used off-label to treat ADHD. It works by altering norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which improves mood and concentration. Wellbutrin is typically taken in three daily doses of 150 mg to 450 mg, though your doctor will start you on a lower dose. Wellbutrin is not recommended for those suffering from eating disorders, glaucoma, or seizures.
5. Effexor
Effexor, or venlafaxine, is an antidepressant that is also effective for treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it works by altering dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels. It isn't FDA approved to be used as treatment for ADHD, but it's frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition, particularly when stimulant drugs are contraindicated or cause unacceptable unwanted side effects. Certain people may also benefit from antidepressants such as bupropion and duloxetine, that are available under the brand names Wellbutrin and Cymbalta.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both drugs work by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This enhances communication between nerve cells. They also lower impulsivity and reduce hyperactivity and hyperactivity, making them excellent choices for those with ADHD who have anxiety or depression.
Nonstimulant ADHD medication is also popular among students in high school and younger people due to the fact that stimulant drugs may increase the risk of heart disease. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases the levels of norepinephrine while guanfacine and Clonidine affect the alpha-2 adrenergic nerves in the brain to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medication isn't the best option for everyone suffering from ADHD However, some people find that their effectiveness wanes as time passes. Your medical history, the genetics of your family, and your response to medication will determine the best treatment for you. Many people with ADHD will test different medications over time to find the one that works best for them. It's also normal to adjust your dosage as you progress. This is particularly the case when life changes are significant. Speak to your doctor regarding the most effective medication for your needs. Then, you'll be able to pick the ones that can allow you to live your life to the fullest.