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 everyone. Nonstimulant drugs and antidepressants may aid.
Adults suffering from ADHD can take pills or patches, or even liquids. They can improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviour. Doctors often prescribe them if stimulants fail to work or cause side effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand name for atomoxetine is a highly effective ADHD medication for adults. Strattera differs from stimulant medications like Adderall which increase dopamine, norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. Strattera reduces ADHD symptoms without causing any harm. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director of Mindpath Health, says that Strattera will not make you feel energized or increase anxiety. It is able to control impulse-driven behaviors, without causing more anxiety or jitteriness. He adds that atomoxetine is an excellent option for people who have specific medical reasons for avoiding stimulants, for example, seizures in the past or improperly managed glaucoma, or those worried about the effects of substance abuse.
Doctors classify Strattera as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It's an antidepressant medication that alters the brain's functions by altering the use of norepinephrine. It's typically prescribed to treat depression, but it can also treat ADHD too, and can be particularly beneficial for people suffering from the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety, notes Dr. Zand. It's usually prescribed in smaller doses initially and then increased gradually according to the person's weight and age.
The most frequently reported side effect is drowsiness. Other effects that are common include nausea and appetite changes. Strattera can interact with a variety of medications, including stimulants, and is not recommended to be taken with Clonidine or any other medication that block monoamine oxidase. It takes longer for it to take effect and can last for up to 24 hours. In certain instances, doctors will recommend combining Strattera with stimulants, like adding Adderall to Ritalin to extend the effects of each. This isn't a common practice and should be done under the supervision of a medical professional. Additionally to this, the FDA puts a black box warning on Strattera indicating that it can cause serious and life-threatening liver issues in certain people.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is an ADHD medication that is part of the class of drugs known as central nervous system stimulants. It also treats narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of sleep). Methlphenidate alters the amount of certain natural substances within your brain. It can only be obtained by prescription.
The stimulants function by increasing and balancing brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. The majority of people with ADHD opt for them as their first choice. They can cause side effects like stomach upset, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. Consult your physician if you are experiencing side effects. If the side effects are serious, your doctor may recommend that you take an alternative medication.
It is important that you inform your doctor if you or your child are taking methylphenidate. Certain medicines may cause harmful side effects when they interact with methylphenidate. It is important to let your doctor know if you have a history of seizures, depression or other mental health problems.
Some people suffering from ADHD find that methylphenidate doesn't help them. In this case your doctor may suggest alternative ADHD medications such as the atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Certain people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from psychological treatments like behavioural therapy.
Methlphenidate is available as short-acting tablets as well as long-acting tablets. The tablets that work short-acting start to work in about an hour and need to be taken two or three times per day for an effect that is continuous. The chewable tablets, long-acting tablets and granules build up in your bloodstream slower and last longer than the shorter-acting version. Your doctor will check for allergies to methylphenidate prior to prescribing the drug.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant medication is the first choice for ADHD treatment, it can be associated with side effects that are difficult to accept. Adults who aren't able to tolerate stimulant drugs, or do not respond well to them, could benefit from nonstimulant medications. Nonstimulants improve the ability of ADHD patients to pay attention, to control impulses, and reduce hyperactivity. The drugs are slowly absorbed in the body. This makes the medication work for a longer time, and also prevents the symptoms from returning once the drug wears off. The medications are typically taken in capsules or pills and come in different strengths. Some are long-acting and last up to 16 hours. Many people will try several medications before they discover the one that is right for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant which has been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD in children and adults. It is part of a class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). adhd without medication of medications increases the amount of norepinephrine. This can help to reduce impulsivity and increase concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse effects such as agitation or anxiety as other stimulant medications.
It is essential to speak with your doctor before beginning any new medication. It is possible that you will not notice any change in your symptoms for a few weeks, but you must keep taking the medication as prescribed. Your doctor will monitor you and adjust your dosage if necessary.
These antidepressants have not been tested specifically for ADHD. These medications are typically prescribed if you suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety or depression, cannot take stimulants, or have an addiction history. Bupropion, a common off-label drug, has shown to be effective in some people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to seek treatment for ADHD as an adult is a personal one. About 70%-80% of adults who are prescribed medication experience significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it's crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of all treatments with your physician prior to making a decision. If you decide to treat your ADHD It's likely your dosage and schedule will change as you adjust to the effects of your treatment.
Stimulants are among the most popular treatment for ADHD and operate by triggering a mechanism that increases and regulates levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. There are alternatives to stimulants that aren't as harmful 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 increase concentration and attention. Venlafaxine (Effexor) could also help in reducing ADHD symptoms. However more research is needed to confirm this.
In addition to the medications mentioned above, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help you reform unhealthy thought and habits that contribute to your ADHD. Through sessions, you'll develop skills like moderation, reassessing the all or nothing thinking, and reducing your negative self-talk. You can test CBT on your own or as part of the group.
Bupropion is an antidepressant, which is often taken off-label to treat ADHD. It works by altering norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, thereby improving mood and concentration. Wellbutrin can be taken in three daily 150 mg-450 mg doses. However, your doctor may start you with a lower dose. Wellbutrin is not recommended if you suffer from eating disorders, glaucoma or seizure disorders.
5. Effexor
Effexor, also known as venlafaxine is an antidepressant, and is also effective for treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it functions by altering dopamine and norepinephrine levels. It isn't FDA approved for use as an treatment for ADHD, but it's frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition, particularly when stimulant drugs are contraindicated or cause unacceptable side effects. Other antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are also able to help improve ADHD symptoms in some individuals.
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 decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity, making them an ideal choice for people with ADHD who are anxious or depressed.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication is also very popular among students in high school and young people due to the fact that certain stimulant drugs may increase the risk of heart disease. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases norepinephrine levels as well as guanfacine, clonidine and guanfa alter the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain to decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity.
adhd otc medication with non-stimulant medication decreases over time. Your medical history, the genetics of your family, and response to medication will determine the most effective solution for you. Many people who suffer from ADHD test various drugs to determine the one that is most effective for themselves. It's normal to to alter your dosage over time, particularly when major life changes occur. Speak to your doctor about the best medication for your situation. You can then select the medicines that allow you to live your life fully.