Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults are treated with a variety of drugs to treat ADHD. There are stimulants, nonstimulants, and blood pressure medicines.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD. They work well and are secure. When used in the right way they also pose a low abuse risk.
It is usually best to select stimulants with an effect that lasts for a long time. 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 increase the levels of certain brain chemical and improve concentration, focus, and impulse control. Doctors usually prescribe drugs that contain amphetamine or methylphenidate. They're available in immediate-release and long-acting formulas. The longer-acting drugs are able to aid in avoiding the "crash" of energy that occurs when stimulants that work in a short-acting way are worn off. The kind of medication one takes is based on the symptoms they experience as well as the preferences of the doctor and other health conditions. It's normal to try several different medications before you find the one that suits your needs.
A physician will also consider the medical history of a patient as well as family history. A doctor may prescribe nonstimulant medication if a patient has a history of substance abuse or an underlying heart condition. They don't have the same danger of abuse as stimulants, but they take longer to work and do not reduce impulsiveness as effectively.
Some medicines can interact with other medicines and you should inform your doctor if taking any other medication. Antidepressants like atomoxetine, (Prozac) and bupropion, (Wellbutrin and Zyban) can increase the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine (dopamine) and dopamine (norepinephrine) and improve concentration and mood. Doctors prescribe these medications to those suffering from ADHD who also suffer from depression or anxiety. Monoamine oxidese inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are not often prescribed in combination with stimulants due to the high chance of serious adverse side adverse effects.
A doctor can teach you strategies to manage your ADHD, and other professionals can help you overcome the challenges caused by your symptoms. For instance psychiatrists or psychologists can assist you in understanding why you are struggling at school or at work, and teach you how to handle those issues. Support groups can also be helpful for adults with ADHD. Consult your physician about online or local support groups.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants are among the most researched ADHD medication that can help improve concentration and reduce the tendency to be impulsive for many. However, they're not the only option. Some people may respond better to nonstimulant medication, and it's important to work with your doctor to determine the best drug and dosage for your child or yourself.
Nonstimulant medicines work by balancing and boosting brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They typically take longer to begin working than stimulants, but they can aid in reducing symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity for certain people. They are often prescribed with stimulant medications in order to improve their effectiveness and reduce undesirable negative side effects.
Wellbutrin, also known as bupropion and Effexor (venlafaxine) are two popular antidepressants that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Both of these drugs can boost the brain chemical norepinephrine as well as improve attention. They're also generally less habit-forming than stimulants and don't have the same potential for abuse. Your doctor may also prescribe atomoxetine, or Strattera, to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine targets an additional neurotransmitter within the brain. It's the first nonstimulant drug to be FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD in adults.
Guanfacine or Intuniv is another option. This blood pressure medicine has a mild calming effect, and can increase concentration. However, it is not as effective as methylphenidate (or lisdexamfetamine) in reducing hyperactivity.
Be aware that every individual's biochemistry is distinct, and so are the drugs they use. The first medicine you or your child tries might not be the best, and the one that is effective for you or your child may have bothersome adverse effects. Finding the right medication takes patience and perseverance.
3. Antidepressants
Although stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD, they aren't the best choice for everyone. Patients who have difficulty absorbing adverse side effects or who find that the medication doesn't work for them might be able to benefit from antidepressants that can aid in reducing anxiety and other mood disorders.
Bupropion (also called Wellbutrin, Zyban) is an antidepressant atypical which has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD adults. It targets two neurotransmitters- norepinephrine, and dopamine that are found in the brain. It is also used to treat depression and anxiety. It is recommended by your doctor if your ADHD symptoms are moderate to mild, or you have a risk of abusing stimulants.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a long-acting prescription medicine that increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improves focus, concentration and manage impulsive behavior. It was the FDA's very first non-stimulant approved drug to treat adult ADHD. It is generally believed to be more effective than methylphenidate and amphetamines.
Your doctor might also prescribe alprazolam, clonidine and guanfacine, which are both blood pressure medications that reduce the sympathetic nervous system's activity to reduce your heart rate and lower blood pressure. This is especially beneficial for those suffering from co-existing ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a different treatment option, is a technique that some people with ADHD utilize to manage their symptoms. CBT teaches strategies to change your thoughts and behavior. adhd medication of therapy is typically done by an professional therapist. You can also think about diet and supplementation however, make sure to consult your doctor before trying these methods. In many instances, a combination of treatment and medication with skills training is most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medications
Adults are often diagnosed with ADHD after having been diagnosed as children. Adults may be unable to manage their symptoms. This can impact their work performance and their social interactions. Adults who suffer from ADHD can benefit from medication therapy, psychotherapy, or lifestyle changes to assist them in focusing, feel calmer and manage their impulsive behavior.
Adults who suffer from high blood pressure can try medication that is usually prescribed to treat the problem. These are known as alpha-2 agonists and include clonidine (Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Intuniv). They can boost mood and aid in concentration and control of impulses.
These medications act on different parts of the brain, and can help reduce anxiety, depression and feelings of aggression. Since years doctors have prescribed them "off-label" however, now the FDA has approved long-acting tablets for ADHD. They can help control symptoms for 10 to 12 hours.
Another medication commonly prescribed for ADHD is bupropion, a drug that is known by brand names such as 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 also been proven to reduce insomnia and agitation in bipolar disorder sufferers.
Although these non-stimulant ADHD drugs have a lower risk of abuse and addiction than stimulants, they do not work for everyone. Certain adults must try various medications before settling on the one that works best for them. Medications are not the only solution for ADHD Therefore, one must continue taking them to stop the symptoms from returning. Your GP will monitor the effectiveness of your medication and your symptoms.
5. Other medication
The medications used to manage ADHD can help improve an individual's ability to concentrate, control impulses and complete tasks. However, they are not a cure for all symptoms, and they often cause negative side effects that must be managed. Some of these side effects may be minor, while others may be severe. Certain medications can cause sleep issues, headaches and a loss of appetite. If the adverse effects are severe, a doctor might increase or decrease the dose of a medication or even try a different one.
Other medications can be used to treat certain types of ADHD such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree). These antidepressants are called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They differ from stimulants in that they don't increase dopamine, but instead increase norepinephrine. These medications appear to be more effective than stimulants in improving attention, but not in the sense of hyperactivity, though they may also decrease appetite and cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are another type of medication that have been proven to be effective in individuals suffering from ADHD. These antidepressants inhibit the breakdown of dopamine and brain chemical. Examples include phenelzine, Tranylcypromine, as well as Venlafaxine. They are less likely to cause side effects such as appetite suppression and insomnia than other antidepressants.
Psychological counseling is also available to people with ADHD. It is often referred to as cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT and involves working with a therapist who is trained to learn skills that can assist in managing ADHD symptoms. It is beneficial for loved ones and family members who struggle to live with a person who suffers from ADHD. Support groups for people with ADHD are available on the Internet and in their local communities. They can provide strategies for dealing with the disorder.