ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medication is the primary ingredient for ADHD treatment but they do not work for all people. Antidepressants as well as nonstimulant drugs can help.
Adults suffering from ADHD can take medication, patches or liquids. They can improve concentration and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by doctors if stimulants do not perform or cause adverse side effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand-name used for atomoxetine and is an effective ADHD medication. Contrary to stimulant medications such as Adderall that increase dopamine and norepinephrine availability in the brain to lessen ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. It will not give you energy or cause your heart rate to increase and can help you control impulsive behavior without increasing anxiety or jitteriness, according to Dr. Zishan Khan, a Texas-based psychiatrist and regional medical director at Mindpath Health. He adds that atomoxetine is also an excellent choice for those with specific medical reasons for avoiding stimulants, for example, a history of seizures or improperly managed glaucoma or those who are concerned about issues with substance abuse.
Strattera is classified 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's also used to treat ADHD too, and can be particularly beneficial for people with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety, says Dr. Zand. It's typically prescribed in smaller doses at first, and then gradually increased based on the weight and age of the patient.
The most frequent adverse effects include drowsiness, nausea and appetite changes. Strattera may interact with other medications including stimulants, and should not be taken with Clonidine or any other medication that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to take effect than stimulants and can take up to 24 hours for it to wear off. Doctors may recommend combining Strattera and stimulants to extend the effects. For instance, combining Adderall and Ritalin. This is not very common and should only be done under the supervision of a physician. In addition to this, the FDA places a black box warning on Strattera which warns that it could cause serious and possibly life-threatening liver problems in some individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is part of a class of drugs called central nervous 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 is available only with a prescription.
Stimulants increase and balance the levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Most people with ADHD choose these drugs as their first choice. They can trigger adverse effects such as stomach upset, insomnia and trouble concentrating. Speak to your doctor in case you are experiencing any side effects. If they are serious they might recommend a different medication for you.
It is important that you tell your doctor if you or your child are taking methylphenidate. Certain medications can cause harmful negative effects when they are in combination with methylphenidate. It is important to inform your doctor if you have a history of depression, seizures, or other mental health problems.
Some people suffering from ADHD find that methylphenidate does not help them. In treating adhd without medication , your doctor will recommend other ADHD medication, such as atomoxetine and lisdexamfetamine. Certain people suffering from ADHD might benefit from psychological treatment such as behavioural therapy.
Methlphenidate is available in both short-acting tablets and long-acting tablets. The short-acting tablets start working within a matter of minutes and need to be taken twice or three times per day for an all-day effect. The long-acting tablets, chewable tablets and granules are absorbed in your bloodstream more slowly and last longer than the short-acting version. Certain patients are allergic to methylphenidate. Your doctor will check for this allergy prior to prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant drugs are the first-choice treatment for ADHD, they can have side effects that are difficult to handle. Adults who cannot take stimulant drugs or do not respond well to them, might benefit from nonstimulant medications. Nonstimulants enhance the capacity of ADHD patients to focus, control impulses, and to reduce hyperactivity. They take time to work and are absorbed within the body over time. This allows the medication to work for a long period of time, and also keeps symptoms from recurring when the drug wears off. These medications come in different strengths and are absorbed as capsules or pills. Certain medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. It is normal for people to try several medications before settling on one that works best for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been FDA-approved to treat ADHD in children and adults. It belongs to a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). This class of medication boosts norepinephrine levels, which can reduce impulsivity while increasing concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse side effects like anxiety or agitation than other stimulant medications.
Before beginning any new medication, it is important to consult your doctor. It is possible that you will not notice any change in your symptoms for a few weeks however, you should continue to take the medication according to your doctor's instructions. Your doctor will be able to monitor your improvement and adjust your dosage if required.
Certain antidepressants are available off-label for the treatment of ADHD however they have not been specifically evaluated in clinical trials for this condition. These medicines are generally prescribed if you have other mental health issues like anxiety or depression, cannot take stimulants, or have an history of substance abuse. Bupropion, a popular off-label drug, has proven to be effective for certain people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to take medication for ADHD as an adult is a decision that is personal to you. It is important to discuss with your doctor the potential risks and benefits of all treatments before making a choice. If you decide to take medication for ADHD the dosage and schedule could alter as time passes.
Stimulants, the most common medication for ADHD, work by boosting and balancing levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. However there are several alternatives to nonstimulants for adults who have trouble with stimulants due to health issues or severe side effects. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera is the first nonstimulant approved for ADHD. It is a stimulant that increases the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Venlafaxine (Effexor) may also reduce ADHD symptoms. However, more studies are required to confirm this.
In addition to the medications mentioned above, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can aid in the transformation of unhealthy thinking and habits that contribute to your ADHD. Through sessions, you'll be taught skills like moderation, reassessing all-or-nothing thinking, and reducing negative self-talk. You can practice CBT as a solo or in a group.
Bupropion, an atypical antidepressant is often used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which improves mood and concentration. Wellbutrin can be taken in three daily 150 mg to 450 mg doses. However, your doctor might start you with a lower dosage. It is not recommended to use Wellbutrin if you have an history of seizure disorders, eating disorders, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that's also effective in treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it works by altering dopamine and norepinephrine levels. It's not FDA approved as a treatment for ADHD but is often prescribed off-label, especially when stimulant drugs cause side effects that are unpalatable or are not recommended. Other antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), can also aid in reducing 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 serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This improves communication between nerve cells. They also lower impulsivity and reduce hyperactivity and hyperactivity, making them excellent choices for those with ADHD who suffer from anxiety or depression.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are also popular among high school students and young people due to the fact that certain stimulants may increase the risk of developing heart disease. Atomoxetine, or Strattera, increases norepinephrine. Guanfacine and clonidine affect alpha-2 receptors within the mind to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Some people's effectiveness with non-stimulant medications decreases with time. The most effective solution for you will depend on your medical history, family genetics, and response to treatment. Many people suffering from ADHD test various drugs to determine the one that works best for themselves. It's also normal to need to adjust your dosage over time. This is particularly true when life changes are significant. Talk to your doctor to find out more about the most effective medications for your specific situation. You can then choose the medications that will allow you to live your life fully.