ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medications are the cornerstone of ADHD treatment, but they don't work for everyone. Antidepressants and nonstimulant drugs may help.
Adults with ADHD can take medication or patches, or liquids. They improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. Doctors often prescribe them if stimulants aren't effective or cause side effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand name for atomoxetine, which is an effective ADHD medication. Strattera differs from stimulant drugs like Adderall that boost dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as other neurotransmitters found in the brain. Strattera reduces ADHD symptoms without doing this. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director at Mindpath Health, says that Strattera won't make you feel energized or increase anxiety. It can control the impulsive behavior without causing more the jitteriness. He says that atomoxetine can be a great option for those who are worried about the use of substances or have medical reasons to stay away from stimulants.
Strattera is classified by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitor, an antidepressant that affects the brain's use of Norepinephrine. Dr. Zand notes that Strattera is typically prescribed to treat depression, but it is also used to treat ADHD. It can be especially helpful for people who have comorbid ADHD with anxiety. adhd without medication 's usually prescribed in smaller doses initially, then increased gradually based on the person's weight and age.
The most common side effect is drowsiness. Other effects that are common include nausea and appetite changes. Strattera is a drug that interacts with many other medications which include stimulants. It should not be taken along with clonidine, or other drugs that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to work and may last up to 24 hours. Doctors may suggest combining Strattera and stimulants to extend the effects. For instance, you could add Adderall with Ritalin. However, this isn't a common practice and should be done with a doctor's guidance. Additionally to this, the FDA puts a black box warning on Strattera indicating that it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening liver problems in a few individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is part of a family of drugs known as central nervous stimulants. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness as well as sudden episodes of sleep. Methlphenidate changes the amount of certain natural substances within your brain. It is available only with a prescription.
Stimulants help by boosting and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. They are the first choice for most people with ADHD. However, they do have side effects such as insomnia, stomach upset and trouble with concentration. Consult your physician if you are experiencing side effects. If they are serious, he or she might suggest a different medication for you.
If you or your child is taking methylphenidate, it's important to tell your doctor about any other medicines you are taking. Certain medications can cause dangerous negative effects when they are in combination with methylphenidate. It is important to inform your doctor whether you have a history of depression, seizures, or other mental health problems.
Certain people suffering from ADHD find that methylphenidate doesn't help them. In non stimulant adhd medication , your doctor will recommend alternative ADHD medication, such as lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine. Some people suffering from ADHD might benefit from psychological treatment, such as behavioural treatment.
Methlphenidate is available as short-acting tablets and long-acting tablets. The short-acting tablet begins to work within a matter of hours. It is taken twice or three times a day to have a 24-hour effect. The long-acting tablets, chewable tablets and granules accumulate in your bloodstream more slowly and last longer than the shorter-acting version. Some patients are allergic methylphenidate. Your doctor will check for this allergy before prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
Although stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD, they can have adverse effects that are difficult to manage. Adults who are unable to take stimulant drugs or are not responsive to them, might benefit from nonstimulant medications. Nonstimulants increase the capacity of ADHD patients to focus, control impulses, and reduce hyperactivity. They work slowly and build up in the body over time. This allows the medication to function for a long period of time and prevents symptoms from returning when the drug has worn off. The drugs are available in various strengths and are absorbed in pills or capsules. Some are long-acting and last for up to 16 hours. Many people will test several medications before they discover the one that works for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been FDA approved to treat ADHD both in children and adults. It belongs to a group of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of drugs increases the amount of norepinephrine. This helps to reduce impulsivity and increase concentration. It is less likely to cause side-effects like anxiety or agitation as other stimulant medications.
It is essential to speak with your physician prior to beginning any new medication. It is possible that you will not notice any changes in your symptoms for a few weeks, but you must continue to take the medication according to your doctor's instructions. Your doctor will track your changes and adjust your dosage as necessary.
The antidepressants aren't tested specifically for ADHD. These medicines are generally prescribed if you suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety or depression, are unable to tolerate stimulants or have a history of drug abuse. Bupropion is an example of this kind of off-label medication, which has been shown to be effective in a few people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to take medication for ADHD as an adult is a choice that is entirely personal. Around 70%-80% of adults who receive medication see significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it's crucial to discuss the advantages and risks of each treatment with your physician prior to making the decision. If you decide to take medications for your ADHD It's likely your dosage and schedule will change as you adjust to the effects of the treatment.
Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD, and they are a part of a process that boosts and balances levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. There are nonstimulant options for adults who cannot tolerate stimulants due to health issues or serious side-effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug approved for ADHD and it is a stimulant that works on norepinephrine within the brain to improve concentration and attention. Another antidepressant known as Venlafaxine (Effexor) can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms, though more studies are required to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a supplement to the medication mentioned above, can help you change negative thoughts and behaviors that can contribute to ADHD. In sessions, you'll develop techniques like moderation, reassessing all-or-nothing thinking, and reducing negative self-talk. You can do CBT alone or in a group.
Bupropion, atypical antidepressant, is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, which improves concentration and mood. Wellbutrin can be taken in three daily 150 mg-450 mg doses, however your doctor might start you with a lower dosage. It is not recommended to use Wellbutrin in the event that you have any history of seizure disorder eating disorders, a disorder of the stomach, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Effexor, also known as venlafaxine is an antidepressant which is also effective for treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it functions by altering dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels. It's not FDA approved as an treatment for ADHD but is often prescribed off-label, particularly if stimulant drugs cause side effects that are unpalatable or are contraindicated. Certain people may also benefit from antidepressants such as bupropion and duloxetine, that are available under the brand names Wellbutrin and Cymbalta.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both medications work by increasing norepinephrine and serotonin levels in the brain, improving communication between nerve cells. They also lower the risk of hyperactivity and impulsivity which makes them a good choice for those with ADHD who have depression or anxiety.
Nonstimulant ADHD medication is also popular among high school students and young people because some stimulant drugs may increase the risk of heart disease. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases levels of norepinephrine while guanfacine and Clonidine alter the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain, which reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the ideal option for everyone with ADHD However, certain people report that their effectiveness wanes as time passes. The best solution for you will depend on your medical history, family genetics and your response to medications. Many people suffering from ADHD will try several different medications over time to determine what is most effective for them. It's normal to need to alter your dosage over time, as well, particularly when significant life changes occur. Consult your physician about the most appropriate medication for your situation. You can then choose the medications that will allow you to live your life to the fullest.