ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medications are the cornerstone for ADHD treatment, but they may not work for all people. Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications can help.
Adults who suffer from ADHD could be patches, pills or liquids. They can improve concentration and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by physicians if stimulants do not perform or cause adverse side effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand-name for atomoxetine and is an effective ADHD medication. In contrast to stimulant drugs like Adderall, which increase 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 more energetic or increase anxiety. It is able to control impulsive behaviors without increasing anxiety or jitteriness. He says that atomoxetine is also a great option for those who have specific medical reasons for avoiding stimulants, such as seizures in the past or glaucoma that is poorly controlled or people who are concerned about substance abuse issues.
Strattera is classified by medical professionals as a selective Norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitor an antidepressant that alters the brain's use of Norepinephrine. It's typically prescribed for depression, but can be used to treat ADHD too, and could be particularly beneficial for people suffering from co-occurring ADHD and anxiety, says Dr. Zand. It's usually prescribed in smaller doses initially and then gradually increased based on the individual's weight and age.
The most common side effects are drowsiness, appetite changes and nausea. Strattera can interact with several medications, including stimulants, and is not recommended to be taken 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 wear off. Doctors may recommend combining Strattera and stimulants to extend the effects. For instance, combining Adderall and Ritalin. But this isn't very common and should only be done with a doctor's guidance. In addition to this, the FDA puts a black box warning on Strattera warning that it may cause serious and life-threatening liver issues in certain individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is part of a class of drugs referred to as central nerve stimulants. It also treats Narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness as well as sudden episodes of sleep). Methlphenidate alters the amount of certain natural substances in your brain. The medication can only be purchased by prescription.
The stimulants function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. The majority of people with ADHD opt for them as their first choice. They can trigger side effects like stomach upset, insomnia and difficulty concentrating. Speak to your doctor in case you are experiencing any side effects. If they are severe the doctor may recommend a different medicine for you.
If you or your child are taking methylphenidate, it's essential to inform your doctor about all the other medications you are taking. Some medicines can interact with methylphenidate and have harmful adverse effects. Tell medication for adhd if you've ever had a history of seizures, depression or any other mental health issues.
Some people with ADHD do not respond to methylphenidate. In this case, your doctor will recommend alternative ADHD medications, like lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine. Certain people suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychological therapies, such as behavioural treatment.
Methlphenidate is available in both short-acting tablets as well as long-acting tablets. The short-acting tablets start working in about an hour and need to be taken 2 or 3 times per day to get an effect that is continuous. The chewable tablets, long-acting tablets and granules are absorbed in your bloodstreams more slowly and last longer than the shorter-acting version. Your doctor will test for allergies to methylphenidate prior to prescribing the drug.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD but they can also cause side effects that are difficult to manage. Nonstimulant drugs are a great option for adults who cannot take stimulant drugs or do not respond to them. Nonstimulants help to increase the capacity to pay attention, control impulses and reduce hyperactivity in those with ADHD. These drugs are slow to work and accumulate in the body over time. This allows the medication to be effective over an extended period of time, and also prevents symptoms from returning when the drug has worn off. These medications are usually taken as pills or capsules and are available in various strengths. Certain medications are long-acting and lasting up to 16 hours. Many people try a variety of drugs before they can find the one that is right for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in children and adults. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). This class of drugs increases the levels of norepinephrine, which helps to reduce impulsivity and improve concentration. It is less likely to cause side-effects like anxiety or agitation than other stimulant medications.
Before beginning any new medication, it's important to consult your physician. It could take several weeks before you notice any changes in your symptoms but you should continue taking the medication according to instructions. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and adjust your dosage as required.
Several antidepressants are used off-label in the treatment of ADHD, but they have not been specifically evaluated in clinical trials for this condition. These medicines are generally prescribed if you suffer from other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, cannot take stimulants, or have an addiction history. Bupropion is one of the most common examples of this kind of medication that is off-label, and has been shown to be effective in a few people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
It's up to you to decide whether or not to start taking medication as an adult to treat ADHD. It is essential to talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of every treatment before making a decision. If you decide to use medication for ADHD, your dosage and schedule could alter over time.
Stimulants, the most popular medication for ADHD help by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. However there are several alternatives that aren't stimulants for people who are struggling with stimulants due health issues or severe adverse reactions. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is the first approved nonstimulant for ADHD. It is a stimulant that increases the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Another antidepressant known as Venlafaxine (Effexor) can help reduce ADHD symptoms, though more studies are required to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in addition to the medication mentioned above, can help you change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors that can contribute to ADHD. During sessions, you'll learn skills like moderation, reassessing all-or-nothing thinking, and decreasing negative self-talk. You can practice CBT either on your own or in a group.
Bupropion, an antidepressant that is atypical is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels 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 begin with a lower dose. It is not recommended to use Wellbutrin if you have any history of seizure disorder eating disorders, a disorder of the stomach, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Effexor, or venlafaxine, is an antidepressant, and is also effective for treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels. It isn't FDA approved to be used as an treatment for ADHD however, it is often prescribed off-label to treat the condition, especially when stimulant medications are contraindicated or cause unacceptably adverse negative side effects. Other antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) can help improve ADHD symptoms in certain 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 lower hyperactivity and impulsivity which makes them a good choice for people suffering from ADHD who have depression or anxiety.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications are also popular among high school students and young people due to the fact that stimulants can increase the risk of developing heart disease. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, increases norepinephrine. Clonidine and guanfacine affect alpha-2 receptors in the brain to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the ideal option for everyone suffering from ADHD, though, and certain people report that their effectiveness wanes with time. The most effective solution for you will depend on your medical history, genetics of your family and the response to medications. Many people suffering from ADHD test a variety of drugs to determine the one that is most effective for themselves. It's normal to need to change your dosage over time particularly when major life changes happen. Talk to your doctor about the best medication for your needs. Then, you can choose the ones that can enable you to live your life to the fullest.