ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medication is the mainstay of ADHD treatment however they aren't effective for everyone. Antidepressants and nonstimulant drugs may aid.
Medications for adults with ADHD can be pills, patches, or liquids. They boost concentration and reduce impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by physicians in the event that stimulants don't work or cause adverse effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand-name used for atomoxetine, which is an effective ADHD medication. In contrast to stimulant drugs like Adderall, which increase dopamine and norepinephrine availability in the brain to decrease ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director of Mindpath Health, says that Strattera does not cause you to feel energized or cause anxiety. It is able to control impulsive behaviors without increasing anxiety or jitteriness. He says that atomoxetine can be a suitable option for those who are worried 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 alters the brain's use of Norepinephrine. Dr. Zand notes that Strattera is typically prescribed to treat depression however, it can also be used to treat ADHD. It may be especially beneficial for those who have an underlying condition like ADHD with anxiety. It's typically prescribed in smaller doses initially and then gradually increased in accordance with a person's age and weight.
The most frequently reported adverse effect is drowsiness. Other common effects include nausea and changes in appetite. Strattera is a drug that interacts with many other medications, including stimulants. It should not be taken along with clonidine, or any other medications inhibiting monoamine oxidase. It takes longer for it to take effect and can last up to 24 hours. In certain instances doctors may recommend mixing Strattera with stimulants, for instance, adding Adderall to Ritalin to increase the effects of each. This is not a very common practice and should be done with the advice of a doctor. The FDA has also issued an advisory in the black-box for Strattera which warns that the drug may cause serious and possibly fatal liver problems in some individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is part of a family of drugs referred to as central nerve stimulants. It is also used to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness as well as frequent periods of sleep. Methlphenidate is a drug that alters the amounts of certain natural substances within your brain. This medication is only available by prescription.
Stimulants boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. The majority of people with ADHD prefer them as their first choice. They can cause adverse effects such as stomach upset, insomnia and trouble concentrating. Talk to your doctor about the side effects you are experiencing. If the side effects are severe the doctor may recommend that you switch to an alternative medication.
If you or your child is taking methylphenidate it is important to inform your doctor about any other medications you take. Certain medicines may interact with methylphenidate and have harmful side effects. Inform your doctor if you've ever suffered from seizures, depression, or other mental health issues.
Some people with ADHD don't respond to methylphenidate. In this instance your doctor may suggest other ADHD treatments such as atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Psychological treatments, such as behavioural therapy can also be beneficial for certain patients suffering from ADHD.
Methlphenidate comes in short-acting and long-acting varieties. The short-acting tablet begins to work in an hour. It is taken twice or three times a day for a 24-hour effect. The long-acting tablets, chewable tablets and granules build up in your bloodstream slower and last longer than the short-acting forms. Some patients are allergic to methylphenidate. Your doctor will test you for the allergy prior to prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
Although stimulant medications are the first option for ADHD treatment, it may have side effects which are difficult to accept. Nonstimulant medications are a good alternative for adults who are unable to tolerate stimulant medications or are not able to respond to them. They help increase the capacity to focus, control impulses and decrease hyperactivity in people with ADHD. These drugs build up slowly within the body. This allows the medication to work over a longer period of time, and also prevents symptoms from returning when the drug is gone. The medications are typically taken as pills or capsules and come in different strengths. Certain medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. Many people will try several medications before they find the one that works best for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant. It has been FDA approved to treat ADHD both in children and adults. It belongs to a category of drugs known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). how does medication for adhd work of medication boosts norepinephrine levels, which can help to decrease impulsivity while increasing concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse effects like anxiety or agitation as other stimulant medications.
Before starting any new medication, it's important to consult your doctor. You may not notice any change in your symptoms for a few weeks but you must continue to take the medication according to your doctor's instructions. Your doctor will be able to monitor your improvement and adjust your dosage if needed.
Certain antidepressants are available off-label for the treatment of ADHD, but they have not been specifically evaluated in clinical trials for this condition. These medicines are generally prescribed if you have other mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, are unable to take stimulants or have an addiction history. Bupropion, a common off-label drug, has proved to be effective for some people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to seek treatment for ADHD as an adult is a decision that is personal to you. Around 70%-80% of adults who receive medication see significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it is important to discuss the advantages and risks of any treatment with your healthcare provider before making a decision. If you decide to use medication for ADHD, your dosage and schedule might alter as time passes.
Stimulants, the most common treatment for ADHD, work by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. There are nonstimulant options for adults who cannot tolerate stimulants due to health issues or serious side-effects. Atomoxetine, a.k.a Strattera is the first nonstimulant approved for ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Venlafaxine (Effexor) may also reduce ADHD symptoms. However, more studies are required to confirm this.
In addition to the medication mentioned above, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can assist you in resolving negative thoughts and behavior patterns that contribute to your ADHD. During sessions, you'll learn skills like moderation as well as reassessing the all-or-nothing mindset and decreasing negative self-talk. You can explore CBT on your alone or in the group.
Bupropion is a typical antidepressant that is sometimes taken off-label to treat ADHD. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to improve concentration and mood. Wellbutrin is typically taken in three daily doses of 150 mg to 450 mg, though your doctor will start you on a lower dose. It is not recommended to use Wellbutrin if you have a history of seizure disorders, eating disorders, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Effexor, also known as venlafaxine is an antidepressant which can also be effective in treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it functions by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels. types of adhd medication 's not FDA approved as a treatment for ADHD however, it is frequently prescribed off-label, particularly when stimulant drugs cause side effects that are not tolerated or are contraindicated. Other antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), can also 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 increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels within the brain. This improves communication between nerve cells. They also decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity, which makes them a great option for those with ADHD who are depressed or anxious.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication is also popular among students in high school and young people due to the fact that certain stimulants may increase the risk of heart disease. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases the levels of norepinephrine while guanfacine and Clonidine affect the alpha-2 adrenergic nerves in the brain, which reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Some people's effectiveness with non-stimulant medications decreases with time. Your medical history, the genetics of your family, and your response to medication will determine the most effective solution for you. Many people suffering from ADHD will test different drugs over time to discover what is most effective for them. It's normal to to change your dosage over time too, especially when significant life changes occur. Talk to your doctor to find out more about the best medications for your situation. Then, you can choose the medications that will allow you to live life to the fullest.