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ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medications are the cornerstone of ADHD treatment, but they don't work for all people. advice here and other nonstimulant drugs can help.
Adults who suffer from ADHD can be pills, patches or liquids. They boost concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. Doctors often prescribe them if stimulants aren't effective or cause adverse effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is an atomoxetine brand name is a highly effective ADHD medication for adults. Strattera is different from stimulant drugs like Adderall that increase dopamine, norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters found in the brain. Strattera reduces ADHD symptoms without causing any harm. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director at Mindpath Health, says that Strattera will not make you feel more energetic or increase anxiety. It can control impulsive behaviors without increasing the jitteriness. He adds that atomoxetine is also an excellent choice for those who have particular medical reasons to stay away from stimulants, for example, 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. Dr. Zand notes that Strattera is usually prescribed to treat depression, but it can also be used to treat ADHD. It could be especially helpful for people who suffer from comorbid ADHD with anxiety. It's typically prescribed at smaller doses initially, then increased gradually depending on the person's weight and their age.
The most common side effect is drowsiness. Other typical side effects include nausea and changes in appetite. Strattera may interact with other medications including stimulants, and should not be taken in conjunction 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 take effect. Doctors might suggest mixing Strattera and stimulants to extend the effects. For instance, you could add Adderall with Ritalin. This is not a very common practice and should be done under the guidance of a medical professional. The FDA has also placed a black-box warning for Strattera, indicating that the drug can cause serious and possibly fatal liver problems in some people.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate belongs to a group of drugs referred to as central nerve stimulants. It also treats the condition known as narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden episodes of sleep). Methlphenidate affects the quantity of certain natural substances inside your brain. It is available only on prescription.
The stimulants function by increasing and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. The majority of people with ADHD prefer them as their first choice. They can trigger symptoms like insomnia, stomach upset, and trouble concentrating. Talk to your doctor when you experience side effects. If they are serious they may recommend a different medicine for you.
It is important that you tell your doctor if you or your child are taking methylphenidate. Certain medications can cause harmful adverse effects when they interact with methylphenidate. Inform your doctor if you've ever had a history of seizures, depression, or other mental health issues.
Some people with ADHD do not respond to methylphenidate. In this situation, your doctor will recommend alternative ADHD medications, like lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine. Some people with ADHD may benefit from psychological treatment like behavioural therapy.
Methlphenidate is available in both short-acting tablets and long-acting tablets. The tablets that work short-acting start to work within an hour and must be taken twice or three times per day to get an effect that is continuous. Long-acting tablets get into the bloodstream slowly and last longer. Your doctor will check for allergies to methylphenidate prior to prescribing the medication.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant drugs are the first-choice treatment option for ADHD but they can also cause adverse effects that are difficult to manage. Adults who aren't able to take stimulant drugs or who do not respond well to them, might benefit from nonstimulant medications. They help enhance the ability to focus, manage impulses and reduce hyperactivity in those with ADHD. These drugs build up slowly in the body. This allows the medication work for a longer time, and also prevents the symptoms from returning once the drug wears off. The medications are typically taken as pills or capsules and come in different strengths. Some are long-acting and last for up to 16 hours. It is common for people to try several medications before settling on one that is the most effective for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been FDA-approved to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It belongs to a category of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). This class of medication increases norepinephrine levels, which can reduce impulsivity while increasing concentration. It is also less likely to cause negative side reactions such as agitation and anxiety than other stimulant drugs.
Before starting any new medication, it is important to consult your physician. It could take several weeks before you notice any changes in your symptoms however, you must continue taking the medication as directed. Your doctor will monitor your changes and adjust your dosage as required.
These antidepressants haven't been tested specifically for ADHD. These medications are typically prescribed if you suffer from other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, can't take stimulants or have an history of substance abuse. Bupropion is an example of this kind of medication that is off-label, and has been shown to be effective in a few people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to take medication for ADHD as an adult is a decision that is personal to you. Around 70%-80% of adults who are prescribed medications find significant improvement in their symptoms, but it's crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of all treatments with your physician prior to making an informed decision. If you decide to take medication for ADHD, your dosage and schedule might change over time.
Stimulants are among the most popular medication to treat ADHD, and they work through a mechanism that enhances and balances levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. There are nonstimulant alternatives for people who are unable to tolerate stimulants because of health problems or severe side effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first drug that is non-stimulant to be approved for ADHD, and it acts on norepinephrine in the brain to improve focus and attention. Venlafaxine (Effexor) may also reduce ADHD symptoms. However further research is needed to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as to the medication mentioned above can help you overcome unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors that can contribute to ADHD. In sessions, you'll develop techniques like moderation and reassessing your all-or-nothing mentality, and reducing negative self-talk. You can explore CBT on your own or as part of an ensemble.
Bupropion is an antidepressant that can be used off-label to treat ADHD. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which improves mood and concentration. Wellbutrin is available in three daily 150 mg to 450 mg doses, however your doctor may recommend starting with a lower dosage. Wellbutrin is not recommended in the case of eating disorders, glaucoma or seizure disorders.
5. Effexor
Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant, which is also effective in treating ADHD. It functions in a similar way 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 medications cause adverse effects that are unpalatable or are not recommended. Other antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms in certain people.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both medications increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels within the brain, which improves the communication between nerve cells. They also decrease impulsivity and reduce hyperactivity, making them good choices for people with ADHD who suffer from depression or anxiety.
Nonstimulant ADHD medication is also popular among students in high school and younger people due to the fact that stimulants may increase the risk of developing heart diseases. Atomoxetine, or Strattera increases norepinephrine. Guanfacine and clonidine affect alpha-2 receptors in the brain to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the right option for everyone suffering from ADHD, though, and certain people report that their effectiveness wanes over time. The best solution for you will depend on your medical history, family genetics and the response to medication. Many people suffering from ADHD will try several different medications over time to determine what is most effective for them. It is also normal to adjust your dosage as you progress. This is especially true when life changes are significant. Talk to your doctor to find out more about the best medication for your specific situation. Then, you can choose the ones that will help you live your life to the fullest.