Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
There are many choices to treat ADHD in adults. There are stimulants, nonstimulants, and blood pressure medication.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. They are effective and safe. They also pose a low risk for abuse when taken as directed.
Long-acting stimulants are generally preferred. These are medicines like Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine patch) or Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
1. Stimulants
The first medication that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost the levels of certain brain chemical and improve concentration, focus, and impulse control. The majority of doctors prescribe medications that contain methylphenidate or amphetamine. These medications are available in both immediate-release and long-acting versions. The longer-acting drugs can assist in avoiding the "crash" of energy that can happen when short-acting stimulating drugs are worn off. The kind of medication is determined by his or her symptoms as well as the preferences of the doctor and other health issues. It's normal to test a variety of different medications before finding one that works for you.
A physician will also consider the history of the family member as well as medical history. A doctor might prescribe non-stimulant medication if a patient has an addiction history or an underlying heart condition. These don't have the same risk of misuse as stimulants, however they take longer to work and aren't as effective in reducing impulsiveness.
Certain medications can interact with others and you should inform your doctor if you are taking any other medication. Antidepressants like atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) increase the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine and improve concentration and mood. Doctors sometimes prescribe these to people suffering from ADHD especially in the case of anxiety or depression. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are not often combined with stimulants since they carry the potential for serious side effects when used together.
A doctor can guide you through strategies for managing your ADHD, and other professionals can assist you to overcome the challenges caused by your symptoms. For instance, a psychologist or psychiatrist can assist you in understanding why you are struggling at school or at work, and teach you how to overcome those issues. Support groups can also be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. Ask your doctor about local or online support groups.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants, which are the most studied ADHD medication, can improve concentration and reduce impulsivity in many people. They're not the only option. Some people may react to non-stimulant medications. It's essential to work closely with your physician to determine the right medication and dosage for your child or yourself.
Nonstimulant medications are used to balance and boost neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. They usually take longer to start working than stimulants, but they can aid in reducing symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity for some people. They're also often prescribed along with stimulant medication to enhance their effectiveness and reduce adverse effects.
Two popular antidepressants are commonly used as non-stimulant medications for ADHD: Wellbutrin (also known as bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Both of these drugs boost the brain chemical norepinephrine and enhance concentration. They are also less addictive than stimulants, and they don't have as much potential for abuse. Your doctor might prescribe Strattera or atomoxetine for treating ADHD. Atomoxetine targets a different neurotransmitter in the brain, and it's the first non-stimulant medication to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD in adults.
Another option is guanfacine, or Intuniv. This blood pressure medication has a small calming effect and can improve concentration, however it's not as effective at controlling impulsivity or hyperactivity like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate.
Keep in mind that every person's biochemistry is different and so are the medicines they take. The first medicine you or your child is trying might not be effective, and the one that is effective for you or your child might cause unpleasant adverse effects. Finding the right medication requires patience and experimentation.
3. adhd and medication
Although stimulants are often prescribed to treat ADHD however, they might not be the right choice for everyone. Antidepressants are a great option for those who are unable to handle the negative side effects of stimulants or do not find that the medication works for the individual.
Bupropion (also called Wellbutrin, Zyban) is an antidepressant atypical that has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD adults. It targets two neurotransmitters in the brain -- dopamine and norepinephrine. It also treats anxiety and depression. If you're ADHD symptoms are mild or moderate and you're at risk of stimulant abuse Then your doctor could prescribe it.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a prescription medicine that increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improves concentration, focus, and control impulse-driven behavior. It was the FDA's first nonstimulant approved drug to treat adult ADHD. It is generally thought to be more effective than methylphenidate or amphetamines.
You could also be prescribed alprazolam, clonidine, or guanfacine. These are all blood pressure medication that can reduce your heart rate and lower blood pressure by decreasing the activity of your sympathetic nervous system. This is especially useful for those suffering from ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another treatment option that some people with ADHD consider to be an effective tool to manage their symptoms. CBT offers strategies to change your thoughts and behavior. This type of treatment is usually done by the help of a therapist. You can also think about diet and supplementation, but be sure to consult with your doctor prior to trying these approaches. In most instances, a combination of treatment and medication combined with training for skills is the most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medications
Many people with ADHD are diagnosed in childhood however, some get the diagnosis as adults. Adults may have difficulty to manage their symptoms. This can impact their work performance as well as their social interactions. Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication therapy, psychotherapy, or lifestyle changes to assist them in focusing, feel calmer and manage impulsive behaviors.
If stimulants don't work or cause unacceptable side effects, some adults take medications that are typically used to treat high blood pressure. These are referred to as alpha-2-agonists. They include clonidine (Kapvay), and guanfacine, (Intuniv). They can have a positive impact on mood and help with concentration and control of impulses.
These drugs affect different areas of the brain and can help reduce depression, anxiety and feelings of aggression. Since the beginning doctors have prescribed these medications "off-label", but now the FDA has approved long-acting tablets for ADHD. They can offer relief from symptoms for up to 12 hours.
Another medication commonly prescribed for ADHD is bupropion, a drug that is known by brand names like Wellbutrin and Zyban. It is an atypical antidepressant that works as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, increasing levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. It has been shown to reduce insomnia, agitation and bipolar disorder in people.
These non-stimulant ADHD drugs have lower risk of addiction and abuse than stimulants, but they don't work for everyone. Some adults have to try several medications before finding the one that works for them. The medications aren't an effective treatment for ADHD Therefore, one should continue taking them to stop the symptoms from returning. Your GP will monitor the effectiveness of your medication and your symptoms.
5. Other medicines
The medications used to treat ADHD can improve a person's ability to focus, control impulses, and perform tasks. They are not a cure-all for all symptoms, and may have adverse effects. Some of these side effects may be mild, but others can be more serious. Certain medications may cause weight loss, problems with sleep and headaches. If these adverse effects are severe, a doctor may increase or alter the dosage of a medication or suggest an alternative.
Other medications are used to treat specific types of ADHD such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree). These antidepressants are referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They differ from stimulants in that they do not increase dopamine, but instead increase the amount of norepinephrine. adhd medication names appear to be more effective than stimulants at increasing attention, but not hyperactivity, though they may also cause a decrease in appetite and insomnia.
Monoamine oxide inhibitors are a different group of medications that have been proven to work for people suffering from ADHD. These antidepressants stop the breakdown of dopamine and brain chemicals. Examples include phenelzine, the tranylcypromine and Venlafaxine. They are less likely than other antidepressants to cause adverse reactions such as insomnia and appetite suppression.
People with ADHD may also benefit from psychological counseling. CBT is also referred to as cognitive behavioral therapy. It involves working with a therapist to build skills that can help manage ADHD. It is also beneficial for family members and loved ones who are struggling with living with someone with ADHD. People who suffer from ADHD can also find support groups on the Internet and in their local communities which can provide strategies for coping.