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 medications can aid.
Medications for adults with ADHD can include pills, patches or liquids. They boost concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by physicians when stimulants fail to perform or cause adverse side effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand name for atomoxetine and is an effective ADHD medication for ADHD. Strattera is different from stimulant medications such as Adderall that increase dopamine, norepinephrine and 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 does not cause you to feel energized or cause anxiety. It can help control impulse-driven behaviors, without causing more anxiety or jitteriness. He says that atomoxetine is an excellent option for those who have particular medical reasons to stay away from stimulants, like seizures in the past or improperly managed glaucoma or those who are worried about the effects of substance abuse.
Strattera is categorized by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine-Reuptake Inhibitor, an antidepressant that affects the brain's use of Norepinephrine. It's typically prescribed for depression, but it can also be used to treat ADHD as well, and can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from comorbid ADHD and anxiety, says Dr. Zand. It's typically prescribed in smaller doses at first, and then gradually increased according to the weight and age of the patient.
The most frequent side effects are drowsiness nausea and appetite changes. Strattera may interact with other medications, including stimulants, and is not recommended to be taken with clonidine or other medications that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer for it to take effect and can last for up to 24 hours. Doctors may suggest combining Strattera and stimulants to prolong the effects. For instance, combining Adderall to Ritalin. This is not very common and should only be done under the supervision of a doctor. The FDA has also put a black-box warning on Strattera, indicating that the drug may cause serious and potentially fatal liver problems in some individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate belongs to a group of drugs known as central nervous stimulants. It is also used to treat narcolepsy which is a sleep disorder that manifests as excessive daytime sleepiness as well as frequent episodes of sleep. Methlphenidate is a drug that alters the levels of certain natural substances in your brain. This medication is available only on prescription.
Stimulants boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. They are the first choice for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. However, they can cause negative side effects like stomach upset, insomnia and trouble with concentration. Discuss with your doctor the side effects that you are experiencing. If they are severe they might suggest a different medication for you.
If you or your child are taking methylphenidate, it is essential to inform your doctor about any other medicines you are taking. Some medicines can have dangerous negative effects when they are in combination with methylphenidate. Talk to your doctor if ever had a history of seizures, depression or other mental health issues.
Some people suffering from ADHD do not respond to methylphenidate. In this case, your doctor will recommend other ADHD medications, such as lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine. Psychological treatments like behavioural therapy can also be beneficial for certain people suffering from ADHD.
Methlphenidate is available as short-acting tablets and long-acting tablets. The short-acting tablet begins to work within an hour. It is taken twice or three times daily for a 24-hour effect. Long-acting tablets get into your bloodstream more slowly and last longer. Some patients are allergic to methylphenidate, so your doctor will check for the allergy prior to prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant medication is the first option for ADHD treatment, it may be associated with side effects that are difficult to accept. Nonstimulant drugs are a great option for people who cannot tolerate stimulant medications or are not responsive to them. Nonstimulants can increase the capacity to pay attention, control impulses, and reduce hyperactivity among people with ADHD. They are slow to work and accumulate within the body over time. This makes the medication work for a longer time, and prevents symptoms from recurring after the drug wears off. The medications are typically taken as pills or capsules and are available in various strengths. Some are long-acting and last for up to 16 hours. Many people will try several medications before they discover the one that is right for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that is approved by the FDA to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It is a member of a group of drugs known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of medication increases the levels of norepinephrine. This can help to decrease impulsivity and increase concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse side effects such as agitation or anxiety as other stimulant medications.
It is important to talk with your doctor before beginning any new medication. It may take a few weeks before you notice any changes in your symptoms, however, you should continue to take the medication as directed. Your doctor will keep track of your progress and make adjustments to your dosage as required.
Certain antidepressants are available off-label for the treatment of ADHD however, they haven't been specifically tested in trials for this condition. These medicines are generally prescribed if you suffer from other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, can't take stimulants, or have an history of substance abuse. Bupropion is one of the most common examples of this kind of medication that is off-label, and has been proven to be effective in some individuals.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
It's up to you whether or not you decide to take medication as an adult to treat ADHD. It is crucial to discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of each treatment before making a decision. If you decide to take medication for ADHD the dosage and schedule might change as time passes.
Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD and work through a mechanism that boosts and balances levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. However, there are a few alternatives that aren't stimulants for people who are struggling with stimulants due to health issues or serious side effects. Atomoxetine, a.k.a Strattera, is the first approved nonstimulant for ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Venlafaxine (Effexor) can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. However, more studies are required to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a supplement to the medications listed above, can help you change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to ADHD. During sessions, you will learn skills such as moderation, reassessing the all or nothing thinking, and reducing your negative self-talk. You can explore CBT on your alone or in a group.
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that is sometimes taken off-label to treat ADHD. It works by altering dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, thereby improving mood and concentration. Wellbutrin is usually consumed in three daily doses of 150 mg to 450 mg. However, your doctor will begin you on a lower dose. Wellbutrin should not be used for those suffering from eating disorders, glaucoma, or seizure disorders.
5. Effexor
Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that's also effective in treating ADHD. It functions similarly to stimulants, affecting levels of norepinephrine and dopamine. It's not FDA approved as an treatment for ADHD but it is often prescribed off-label, especially when stimulant drugs cause side effects that are intolerable or are not recommended. Some people can also benefit from antidepressants, such as duloxetine and bupropion, which are available under brand names Wellbutrin and Cymbalta.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both drugs increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This enhances communication between nerve cells. They also decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity, making them a great option for people suffering from ADHD who are anxious or depressed.
Some stimulant drugs can increase the risk of heart problems for young people and high school students, so nonstimulant ADHD medications have become popular with these groups too. adhd no medication , also known as Strattera increases norepinephrine. Clonidine and guanfacine affect alpha-2 receptors within the mind to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the ideal option for everyone with ADHD, though, and certain people notice that their effectiveness diminishes over 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 medications over time to determine what is most effective for them. It's also normal to adjust your dosage as time goes by. This is especially true when life changes are significant. Speak to your doctor regarding the most effective treatment for your particular situation. Then, you can choose the ones that will allow you to live your life to the fullest.