ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medications are the cornerstone for ADHD treatment, but they do not work for all people. Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications can aid.
Adults suffering from ADHD can take medications or patches, or liquids. They boost concentration and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by doctors if stimulants do not work or cause side-effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand-name used for atomoxetine and is an effective ADHD medication. Strattera is different from stimulant medications such as Adderall that boost dopamine, norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. Strattera reduces ADHD symptoms without causing any harm. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director at Mindpath Health, says that Strattera won't make you feel more energetic or increase anxiety. It can help control impulsive behaviors without increasing jitteriness. He suggests that atomoxetine may be a suitable option for those who are concerned about the effects of substance abuse or have medical reasons to stay away from stimulants.
Doctors classify Strattera as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It's an antidepressant drug that alters the brain's function by changing its use of norepinephrine. It's usually prescribed to treat depression, but can be used to treat ADHD as well. It may be particularly helpful for people with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety, according to Dr. Zand. It's usually prescribed in smaller doses initially and then gradually increased in accordance with the weight and age of the patient.
The most common side effects are drowsiness nausea, and changes in appetite. Strattera is a drug that interacts with many other medications, including stimulants. It is not recommended to be taken in conjunction with clonidine, or any other medications inhibiting monoamine oxidase. It is more difficult to work than stimulants, and can take up to 24 hours for it to disappear. In certain situations doctors will suggest combining Strattera with stimulants, for instance, adding Adderall to Ritalin to increase the effects of each. However, this isn't common and should only be done under a physician's instructions. The FDA has also put an advisory in the black-box for Strattera warning that the drug may cause serious and potentially fatal liver problems in certain individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate belongs to a group of drugs referred to as central nerve stimulants. It also treats narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness as well as sudden attacks of sleep). Methlphenidate affects the quantity of certain natural substances in your brain. The medication is only available with a prescription.
most effective adhd medication for adults increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. They are the first choice for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. They can trigger symptoms like stomach upset, insomnia and difficulty concentrating. Talk to your doctor in case you are experiencing any side effects. If the side effects are serious, your doctor may recommend that you take another medication.
If you or your child are taking methylphenidate, it's important to tell your doctor about all the other medications you are taking. most effective adhd medication for adults can cause harmful negative effects when they are in combination with methylphenidate. You should also inform your doctor whether you have a history of seizures, depression or any other mental health issues.
Some people suffering from ADHD find that methylphenidate does not help them. In this case, your doctor may recommend alternative ADHD treatments such as atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Some people suffering from ADHD might also benefit from psychological treatments, such as behavioural treatment.
Methlphenidate comes in short-acting and long-acting forms. The short-acting tablet starts working in an hour. It is taken two or three times per day for a 24-hour effect. The chewable tablets, long-acting tablets and granules are absorbed in your bloodstream more slowly and last longer than the short-acting version. Your doctor will test you for allergy to methylphenidate before prescribing the medication.
3. Atomoxetine
Although stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD, they can have side effects that are difficult to tolerate. Adults who cannot tolerate stimulant drugs, or who do not respond well to them, could benefit from nonstimulant medication. Nonstimulants help to enhance the ability to pay attention, control impulses and decrease hyperactivity in those with ADHD. The drugs are slowly absorbed within the body. This allows the medication to work over a longer period of time, and also keeps symptoms from recurring when the drug is gone. 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. Many people will try several drugs before they can find the one that works best for them.
Atomoxetine, an antidepressant, has been FDA approved to treat ADHD both in adults and children. It is part of a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of medication increases the levels of norepinephrine. This helps to reduce impulsivity and improve concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse effects such as agitation or anxiety than other stimulant medications.
Before beginning any new medication, it's important to consult your physician. It could take a few weeks before you notice any changes in your symptoms, however, you must continue taking the medication according to instructions. Your doctor will track your improvement and adjust your dosage as needed.
These antidepressants haven't been tested specifically for ADHD. These medications are prescribed to those who have depression, anxiety, cannot tolerate stimulants or have a drug abuse history. Bupropion, a common off-label medication, has been proved to be effective for some people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
It is up to you to decide whether or not to use medication as an adult to treat ADHD. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of each treatment before making a decision. If you decide to take medication for ADHD, your dosage and schedule could change as time passes.
Stimulants, which are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD are used to boost and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. However, there are a few alternatives to nonstimulants for those who struggle with stimulants due to health problems or serious adverse effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug that has been approved for ADHD and acts on norepinephrine in the brain to increase focus and attention. Another antidepressant called Venlafaxine (Effexor), may also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms, but more studies are needed to confirm this.
In addition to the medication mentioned above, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can aid in the transformation of unhealthy thinking and habits that contribute to ADHD. Through sessions, you'll learn techniques such as moderated thinking, reassessing your all-or nothing thinking, and reducing your negative self-talk. You can test CBT on your on your own or in an ensemble.
Bupropion, an antidepressant that is atypical is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by altering norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, improving mood and concentration. Wellbutrin can be taken in three daily 150 mg to 450 mg doses, however your doctor may recommend starting with a lower dosage. It is not recommended to take Wellbutrin in the event that you have any history of seizure disorder eating disorders, a disorder of the stomach, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Effexor, also known as venlafaxine is an antidepressant, and can also be effective in treating ADHD. It functions similarly to stimulants by affecting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. It's not FDA approved to be used as treatment for ADHD, but it's frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition, especially when stimulant drugs are contraindicated or cause unacceptably adverse negative side effects. Other antidepressants, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), can also help improve ADHD symptoms in some people.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both drugs work by increasing serotonin levels and norepinephrine levels inside the brain. This improves communication between nerve cells. They also reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, which makes them a great option for people suffering from ADHD who are depressed or anxious.
Some stimulant drugs can increase the risk of heart issues in young people and high school students, so nonstimulant ADHD medications have become popular for those groups as well. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases levels of norepinephrine while guanfacine and Clonidine alter the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain to decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the right option for everyone suffering from ADHD However, some people find that their effectiveness decreases as time passes. Your medical history, genetics within your family, and the response to medication will determine the best treatment for you. Many people with ADHD will test different medications over time to determine what works best for them. It's normal to need to adjust your dosage over time as well, particularly when significant life changes occur. Speak to your doctor regarding the most effective treatment for your particular situation. Then, you'll be able to pick the ones that will allow you to live your life to the fullest.