ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medication is the mainstay of ADHD treatment, but they don't work for everyone. Nonstimulant drugs and antidepressants may help.
Medications for adults with ADHD can include pills, patches or liquids. They improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. Doctors often prescribe them if stimulants don't work or cause side effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand name for atomoxetine, which is an effective ADHD medication. In contrast to stimulant drugs like Adderall which boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to reduce ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. It won't give you energy or cause your heart to beat and can help manage an impulsive behaviour without causing anxiety or jitteriness, says Dr. Zishan Khan, a psychiatrist based in Texas and regional medical director at Mindpath Health. He suggests that atomoxetine may be a good choice for those who are concerned about the use of substances or have medical reasons to avoid stimulants.
Strattera is classified by medical professionals as a selective Norepinephrine-Reuptake Inhibitor, an antidepressant that affects the brain's use of Norepinephrine. Dr. for beginners that Strattera is often prescribed to treat depression however, it can also be used to treat ADHD. It can be especially beneficial for those who have comorbid ADHD with anxiety. It's typically prescribed in smaller doses at first, and then gradually increased in accordance with a person's age and weight.
The most frequently reported adverse effect is drowsiness. Other typical side effects include nausea and changes in appetite. Strattera can interact with a variety of medications, including stimulants, and should not be taken in conjunction with clonidine or other drugs that block monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to work than stimulants and can take up to 24 hours to take effect. Doctors may recommend combining Strattera and stimulants to increase the effects. For example, adding Adderall and Ritalin. This isn't a common practice, and should only be done under the supervision of a doctor. Additionally the FDA places a black box warning on Strattera which warns that it could lead to serious and potentially life-threatening liver issues in certain people.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is an ADHD medication that belongs to the group of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It also treats the condition known as narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that results in excessive daytime sleepiness and frequent episodes of sleep). Methlphenidate affects the quantity of certain natural substances in your brain. It can only be purchased by prescription.
Stimulants work by boosting 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 problems with concentration. Discuss with your doctor the side effects that you are experiencing. If the side effects are serious the doctor may recommend that you switch to another medication.
If you or your child is taking methylphenidate, it is important to inform your doctor about all the other medications you are taking. Certain medications can interact with methylphenidate and result in harmful side effects. It is important to let your doctor know the history of depression, seizures, or other mental health problems.
Some people with ADHD are not responsive to methylphenidate. In this situation your doctor may suggest other ADHD medication, such as lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine. Psychological treatments like behavioural therapy can also be helpful for some people with ADHD.
Methlphenidate can be found in both short-acting tablets and long-acting ones. The tablets that are short-acting begin to work in about an hour and need to be taken 2 or 3 times a day for an around-the-clock effect. Long-acting tablets enter your bloodstream slower and last longer. Your doctor will test you for methylphenidate allergy before prescribing the drug.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant medication is the first option for ADHD treatment, it may cause side effects that are difficult to accept. Adults who aren't able to tolerate stimulant drugs, or who do not respond well to them, might benefit from nonstimulant drugs. Nonstimulants improve the ability of ADHD patients to pay attention, control impulses, and to reduce hyperactivity. These drugs build up slowly within the body. This lets the medication function for a longer time, and also prevents the symptoms from returning once the drug has worn off. The medications are available in a variety of strengths and are absorbed as capsules or pills. Certain medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. It is normal for people to try several medications before settling on the one that is the most effective for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD in children and adults. It belongs to a category of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). This class of drugs increases the levels of norepinephrine. This can help to reduce impulsivity and increase concentration. It is less likely to cause side-effects such as agitation or anxiety as other stimulant medications.
It is essential to speak with your doctor prior to starting any new medication. There may not be any changes in your symptoms for a few weeks, however, you must continue taking the medication as prescribed. Your doctor will monitor your improvement and adjust your dosage as required.
These antidepressants haven't been tested specifically for ADHD. These medications are prescribed to those who have depression, anxiety or aversion to stimulants, or have a history of drug abuse history. Bupropion, an off-label drug, has been shown to be effective in certain people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to use medication for ADHD as an adult is a decision that is personal to you. About 70%-80% of adults who are prescribed medication experience significant improvement in their symptoms, however it is important to discuss the benefits and risks of each treatment with your physician prior to making an informed decision. If you decide to take medication to treat ADHD the dosage and schedule might alter over time.
Stimulants are among the most popular treatment for ADHD, and they operate by triggering a mechanism that increases and regulates levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. There are nonstimulant alternatives for people who are unable to tolerate stimulants because of health problems or serious side-effects. Atomoxetine, a.k.a Strattera is the first nonstimulant approved for ADHD. It works by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. Venlafaxine (Effexor) can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. However, more studies are required to confirm this.
In addition to the medications mentioned above, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help you reform unhealthy thought and habits that contribute to your ADHD. Through sessions, you'll learn skills such as moderation, reassessing the all or nothing mentality, and reducing your negative self-talk. You can practice CBT alone or in groups.
Bupropion is a typical antidepressant, which is often prescribed off-label for treating ADHD. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which improves mood and concentration. Wellbutrin is available in three daily 150 mg-450 mg doses, however your doctor may start you with a lower dosage. Wellbutrin should not be taken if you suffer from eating disorders, glaucoma, or seizures.
5. Effexor
Venlafaxine, also known as Effexor, is an antidepressant, and can also be effective in treating ADHD. It functions in a similar way to stimulants, affecting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. It's not FDA approved as an treatment for ADHD but it is often prescribed off-label, particularly if stimulant medications cause adverse effects that are intolerable or are not recommended. Other antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are also able to aid in reducing ADHD symptoms in some individuals.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both medications increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, thereby improving communication between nerve cells. They also decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity, making them a great option for those with ADHD who are anxious or depressed.
Some stimulant drugs can increase the risk of heart issues for young people and high school students, which is why nonstimulant ADHD medications have become popular among these groups as well. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera is a stimulant that increases norepinephrine. Clonidine and Guanfacine alter alpha-2 receptors in the mind to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Some people's effectiveness of nonstimulant medication decreases over time. over the counter adhd medication , the genetics of your family, and your response to medications will determine the best treatment for you. Many people with ADHD test a variety of drugs to determine the one that works best for them. It's also normal to need to alter your dosage as you progress. This is particularly the case when life changes are significant. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the best medications for your situation. You can then choose the medications that will allow you to live your life fully.