Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
There are many ways to treat ADHD in adults. These include stimulants, non-stimulants and blood pressure medications.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. They are effective and safe. If used as directed they also offer a low-risk of abuse.
It is generally recommended to choose stimulants that have an effect that lasts for a long time. These are medicines like Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine patch) or Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
1. Stimulants
The first treatment that doctors use to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost the levels of certain brain chemical and improve concentration as well as focus and impulse control. The majority of doctors prescribe drugs that contain methylphenidate or amphetamine. They're available in immediate-release and long-acting formulations. The longer-acting drugs can help avoid the "crash" in energy that can occur when stimulants that short-act are absorbed. The kind of medication one takes is based on his or her symptoms or preferences of a doctor, as well as other health conditions. It's normal for people many different medications before you discover one that is effective.
A physician will also take into account the history of the family member as well as medical history. If a patient is suffering from a heart problem or an ancestry of substance abuse doctors may choose to prescribe nonstimulant medications. These don't have the same danger of abuse as stimulants, but they take longer to work and don't reduce impulsiveness as effectively.
Some medications can interfere with other medicines, so it's essential to inform your doctor about any other medication you take. Antidepressants, such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin Zyban, Wellbutrin) boost levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine and can improve mood and concentration. Doctors sometimes prescribe these to treat people suffering from ADHD, especially when they suffer from anxiety or depression. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are rarely utilized in conjunction with stimulants due to a high risk for serious side effects when used together.
A doctor can teach strategies for coping with ADHD and other professionals can assist in dealing with the issues caused by symptoms. A psychologist or psychiatrist for instance can help you understand the reasons behind why you're having difficulties at work or school and show you how to deal with these challenges. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from support groups. Ask your doctor about local or online support groups.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants are among the most researched ADHD medication that can help improve concentration and control the tendency to be impulsive for many. However, does adhd medication work 're not the only option. Some people may prefer non-stimulant medications It's essential to consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage and drug for your child or yourself.
Nonstimulant medicines work by increasing and balancing brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They typically take longer to begin working than stimulants, but they can aid in reducing symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity for some people. They're often prescribed in conjunction with stimulant medication to enhance their effectiveness and minimize side effects.
Wellbutrin is also known as bupropion, and Effexor (venlafaxine) are two popular antidepressants commonly prescribed for ADHD. Both of these drugs increase the brain chemical norepinephrine as well as improve concentration. They're also generally less habit-forming than stimulants and don't have the same potential for abuse. Your doctor may also prescribe atomoxetine or Strattera to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine targets a different neurotransmitter in the brain. It's the first non-stimulant medication that has been approved by the FDA for treatment of ADHD in adults.
Guanfacine or Intuniv is another alternative. This blood pressure medication has a small relaxing effect and can help improve concentration, but it's not as effective in decreasing impulsivity or hyperactivity as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
Be aware that every person's biochemistry is different and so are the drugs they use. The first drug you or your children try may not work and the one that does work for you or your child may cause unpleasant side effects. Finding the right medication takes patience and experimentation.
3. Antidepressants
Although stimulants are among the most commonly used medications to treat ADHD, they aren't a good fit for all. People who have trouble tolerating adverse side effects or who find that the medication doesn't work well for them might benefit from antidepressants, which can ease anxiety and other mood disorders.
Bupropion, known by its brand name Wellbutrin or Zyban is an antidepressant that has been proven effective in treating adults suffering from ADHD. It targets two neurotransmitters- norepinephrine, and dopamine within the brain. It is also used to treat depression and anxiety. It is recommended by your doctor if your ADHD symptoms are mild to moderate or if you have a chance of consuming stimulants.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a prescription medicine that increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain to improve concentration, focus and control of the impulsive behavior. It was the FDA's very first non-stimulant approved medication for treating adult ADHD. It is generally thought to be more effective than methylphenidate or amphetamines.
Your doctor might also prescribe guanfacine, clonidine or alprazolam as blood pressure medicines that reduce the sympathetic nervous system's activity to slow your heart rate and lower your blood pressure. This can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from coexisting ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a different treatment option, is a method that some people with ADHD employ to manage their symptoms. CBT teaches you methods to alter your thinking and behave. This type of treatment is typically done by the help of a professional. You could also try supplements and diet but you must consult with your doctor first. In many cases, a combination between medication and therapy combined with training for skills is the most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medication
Many people who suffer from ADHD are diagnosed as children however, some get an diagnosis when they are adults. Adults may be unable to manage their symptoms. This could affect their performance at work and social interactions. But medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes can assist people with ADHD to concentrate and feel more calm, as well as control their impulsive behaviors.
Adults who suffer from high blood pressure may consider taking a medication prescribed to treat the condition. These medications are known as alpha-2 agonists and include clonidine (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv). They can have a positive effect on mood and aid in concentration and impulse control.
These medications affect various parts of the brain, and can help reduce anxiety, depression and feelings of aggression. Doctors have been prescribing these medications "off-label" for ADHD for a long time, but the medications are now available in long-acting tablets that are approved by the FDA for this condition. They can provide symptom relief for up to 12 hours.
Bupropion is a different medication that is prescribed for ADHD. It is also sold under the brand names Wellbutrin or Zyban. It is an atypical antidepressant that works as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, increasing levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. It also has been proven to reduce insomnia and agitation in bipolar disorder sufferers.
These non-stimulant ADHD drugs have lower risks of addiction and abuse than stimulants, but they aren't for everyone. Certain adults must try various medications before settling on the one that works best for them. Medications are not a cure for ADHD Therefore, one should keep taking them to prevent the symptoms from returning. Your GP will monitor the effectiveness of your medication as well as your symptoms.
5. Other medications
The drugs used to treat ADHD can help improve the ability of a person to concentrate, manage impulses and follow through with tasks. They aren't a cure-all for all symptoms and can cause side effects. Some of these side effects may be minor, while others may be more serious. A lot of these medications can cause headaches, sleep problems and a loss of appetite. If these side effects are severe, your doctor may increase or alter the dosage of a medication, or even try another.
Other medications are used to treat certain types of ADHD like atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree). These antidepressants are called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They differ from stimulants in that they don't increase dopamine, but rather increase the amount of norepinephrine. These medications appear to be more effective than stimulants at improving attention, but not in the sense of hyperactivity, though they may also decrease appetite and cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are another type of medication that have been proven to be effective in people with ADHD. These are antidepressants that block the breakdown of dopamine and other brain chemicals. Examples include phenelzine (Nardil), Tranylcypromine (Parnate) and Venlafaxine (Effexor XR). They are less likely than other antidepressants that can cause side effects such as insomnia and appetite suppression.
People suffering from ADHD may also benefit from psychological counseling. CBT is also known as cognitive behavior therapy and involves working with a therapist in order to build skills that can help manage ADHD. It can be beneficial for loved ones and family members who have to deal with someone with ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD can also join support groups on the Internet and in their communities that can offer coping strategies.