Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
There are a variety of options to treat ADHD in adults. They include stimulants, non-stimulants as well as blood pressure medications.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. They are effective and safe. When taken as directed they offer a low-risk of abuse.
Long-acting stimulants are usually preferred. These are medicines like Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine patch) or Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
1. Stimulants
The first medication that doctors use to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost levels of certain brain chemicals and increase concentration, focus and control of impulses. Most often, doctors prescribe drugs that contain amphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs are available in both immediate-release and longer-acting varieties. The longer-acting drugs help people avoid a "crash" in energy that can occur when stimulants that short-act are absorbed. The type of medication that a person chooses is determined by their symptoms, the preference of their doctor, and other health issues. It's normal for people various medications before you discover one that is effective.
A doctor will also take into consideration the medical history of a patient as well as family history. If a patient has a heart condition or a family history of substance abuse or abuse, a doctor might prefer to prescribe non-stimulant drugs. These don't have the same risk of abuse as stimulants, but they are more difficult to use and don't reduce impulsiveness as effectively.
Certain medicines may interact with other medications which is why you should inform your doctor if taking any other medication. Antidepressants such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) boost levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine and can improve mood and concentration. Doctors often prescribe these medications to treat people suffering from ADHD, especially if they have coexisting anxiety or depression. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are not often used in combination with stimulants due to an increased risk of serious side effects when taken together.
A doctor can teach you strategies for managing your ADHD and other professionals can help you cope with problems caused by your symptoms. A psychologist or psychiatrist for instance, can help you understand the reasons behind why you are having trouble at work or school and show you how to deal with these challenges. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from support groups. Ask your doctor about online or local support groups.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants, the most researched ADHD medication, can boost concentration and reduce impulsivity for many people. They're not the only option. Some people might respond better to nonstimulant medication It's essential to work with your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage and medication for your child or yourself.
Nonstimulant medications are used to balance and boost neurotransmitters in the brain. They typically take longer to begin working than stimulants, however they can improve symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity for certain people. They are usually prescribed along with stimulant medications in order to improve their effectiveness and reduce undesirable negative side effects.
Wellbutrin is also referred to as bupropion, and Effexor (venlafaxine) are two antidepressants that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Both of these drugs can increase the brain chemical norepinephrine, which can improve attention. They are also less likely to cause habit formation than stimulants and don't carry the same danger of abuse. Your doctor might also prescribe atomoxetine or Strattera, to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults. It targets a specific neurotransmitter.
Another option is guanfacine or Intuniv. This blood pressure medication has a minor tranquil effect and can increase concentration, although it's not as effective at controlling impulsivity or hyperactivity as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
Remember that each person's biochemistry is unique and so are the drugs they use. The first drug you or your child tries might not be effective, and the one that is effective for you or your child could have unpleasant adverse effects. Finding the right medication takes patience and perseverance.
3. Antidepressants
Although stimulants are among the most frequently used drugs for treating ADHD, they aren't the best choice for all. People who have trouble tolerating adverse effects or feel that the medication doesn't work well for them may be able to benefit from antidepressants that can aid in reducing anxiety and other mood disorders.
Bupropion is known under its brand name Wellbutrin or Zyban, is an atypical antidepressant that has been proven effective in treating adults suffering from ADHD. It targets two neurotransmitters in the brain, namely dopamine and norepinephrine. It can also help treat anxiety and depression. It is recommended by your doctor in the event that your ADHD symptoms are mild to moderate, or if you have a chance of using stimulants.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a prescription medication with long-acting effects, raises the levels of norepinephrine that are present in the brain. This can improve concentration and focus, and also reduce impulsive behaviors. It was the FDA's first nonstimulant approved medication for treating adult ADHD. It is generally thought to be more effective than methylphenidate or amphetamines.
You may also be prescribed alprazolam, clonidine or guanfacine. These are all blood pressure medication which can slow down your heart rate and lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of your sympathetic nervous system. This can be especially helpful for people with coexisting ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), another treatment option, is a method that some people with ADHD employ to manage their symptoms. CBT provides strategies to alter your thoughts and behavior. This type of therapy is typically performed by a therapist. You can also think about supplements and diets however, make sure to consult your physician before attempting these methods. In most cases, a combination between treatment and medication combined with training for skills is the most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medication
Some adults are diagnosed with ADHD after being diagnosed as children. Adults may be unable to manage their symptoms. This could affect their performance at work and social interactions. But medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes can assist people with ADHD to concentrate, feel calmer and control the impulsive behavior.
If stimulants aren't effective or cause unacceptable side effects, some adults try medications that are usually 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 effect on mood and help with concentration and impulse control.
These medications act on different parts of the brain, and may also help with anxiety, depression and feelings of aggression. Doctors have been prescribing these medications "off-label" for ADHD for years, but the medications are now available in long-acting tablets that are approved by the FDA for this condition. They can help control symptoms for 10 to 12 hours.
see this site is a different medication that is prescribed for ADHD. It is also available under the brand names Wellbutrin or 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 demonstrated to decrease insomnia, agitation and bipolar disorder in patients.
While these non-stimulant ADHD drugs have a lower risk of abuse and addiction than stimulants, they do not suit everyone. Certain adults must try various medications before settling on the one that works best for them. The medication is not a cure, therefore the patient must continue taking medications to prevent the symptoms returning. Your GP will evaluate the effectiveness of your medication as well as your symptoms.
5. Other medications
The drugs used to treat ADHD can help improve a person's ability to concentrate, manage impulses, and complete tasks. They aren't a cure-all for all symptoms, and may have side effects. Some of these side effects may be minor, while others can be more serious. Many of these drugs can cause sleep issues, headaches and a loss of appetite. If these adverse reactions are severe, a doctor may increase or change the dosage of a medication, or even try a different one.
Other medicines, such as viloxazine and atomoxetine can be used to treat specific forms of ADHD. They are part of the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, which differ from stimulants in that they do not impact dopamine, but instead boost norepinephrine. These medications are more effective than stimulants in improving attention, but not in the sense of hyperactivity, although they can also decrease appetite and cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are another class of medication that has been shown to be effective for certain people suffering from ADHD. These are antidepressants that stop the breakdown of dopamine and other brain chemicals. Examples include phenelzine and Tranylcypromine, as well as venlafaxine. They are less likely to cause side effects such as appetite suppression and insomnia than other antidepressants.
People with ADHD are also able to receive psychological counseling. CBT is also known as cognitive behavioral therapy and involves working with a therapist in order to develop skills that can assist in managing ADHD. It is beneficial for loved ones and family members who struggle to live with someone with ADHD. Support groups for people with ADHD are available on the Internet and within their communities. They can offer strategies for coping.