How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Drugs that stimulate the brain such as methylphenidate or amphetamine boost and balance brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them as pills, liquid or patches.
Healthcare professionals also take medications known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists to treat ADHD. These medications are typically used "off-label", since they are FDA-approved for a variety of conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications. They increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which aid in improving concentration and control of impulses. adhd medications for adults prescribe stimulants to adults with ADHD but they might also prescribe them to treat other related disorders such as depression and anxiety. These medications are controlled substances, since they can be habit-forming. They should be taken under the supervision of a physician. Stimulants can help people with ADHD control symptoms quickly, but they do not cure the condition. They can also trigger negative side effects, such as heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs that doctors can prescribe to adults suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant medications fall into two main categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less prone to the risk of side effects, including addiction and apathy, than amphetamines. They are available in shorter-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants are effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours, whereas intermediate and long-acting medicines require between 6 and 16 hours to achieve their maximum effects. Doctors may suggest long-acting medicines for people with difficulty remembering to take their medicine on a regular basis.
Certain adults may not be responsive to stimulants, and healthcare professionals may test non-stimulant medications first. The FDA has approved four drugs that are nonstimulant for adults with ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine (clonidine), and Guanfacine. These drugs have less of an impact on the impulsive behavior than stimulants, yet they are extremely efficient in treating certain fundamental ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medications can be combined with other kinds of treatments, like environmental and behavior therapy. Therapists can, for instance help parents and families learn how to help their children manage ADHD symptoms and provide them with the necessary skills.
The most effective ADHD medication for adults is the one that manages their symptoms most effectively and has less side effects. Finding the right dosage, medication and timing to take it could be a trial-and-error process. To ensure their success, people with ADHD should also make lifestyle changes. For instance getting enough sleep and abstaining from coffee are two of the most crucial.
Adults with ADHD may have changes in their symptoms over time. Therefore, they should visit their doctor regularly to monitor and alter their medication. Doctors should make appointments every month with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms, and then every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning are managed. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that people suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical attention. Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medications that enhance their lives and results in better health relationships, jobs, and relationships. The AAP suggests that people suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication prior to consulting a doctor to discuss the risks and benefits. This is a difficult decision and the AAP recommends a thorough evaluation by an experienced psychiatrist or a pediatrician.