ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medications are the cornerstone of ADHD treatment however they aren't effective for everyone. Antidepressants and other nonstimulant drugs can help.
Treatments for adults suffering from ADHD can include patches, pills or liquids. They improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by physicians in the event that stimulants don't perform or cause adverse side effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand-name for atomoxetine, which is an effective ADHD medication. Contrary to stimulant medications such as Adderall which boost dopamine and norepinephrine supply to the brain to decrease ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. It will not give you energy or cause your heart rate to increase, and can help control impulsive behavior without increasing anxiety or jitteriness, according to Dr. Zishan Khan, a psychiatrist based in Texas and regional medical director at Mindpath Health. He says that atomoxetine can an excellent option for those with specific medical reasons for avoiding stimulants, like seizures in the past or glaucoma that is poorly controlled, or those concerned about substance abuse issues.
Strattera is categorized by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor an antidepressant that alters the brain's use of Norepinephrine. Dr. Zand notes that Strattera is typically prescribed to treat depression, however, it can also be used to treat ADHD. It can be particularly beneficial for those who have comorbid ADHD with anxiety. It's usually prescribed in smaller doses to start and then increased gradually based on the individual's weight and age.
The most frequently reported adverse effect is drowsiness. Other common effects include nausea and changes in appetite. Strattera can interact with several medications which include stimulants. It should not be taken in conjunction with clonidine or other medications that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It is more difficult to work than stimulants and may take up to 24 hours to wear off. In some cases doctors will suggest combining Strattera with stimulants, such as adding Adderall to Ritalin to extend the effects of each. But this isn't very common and should be done under a physician's instructions. Additionally, the FDA places a black box warning on Strattera which warns that it could lead to serious and potentially life-threatening liver problems in some people.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is an ADHD medication that is part of the group of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness as well as sudden periods of sleep. Methlphenidate changes the amount of certain natural substances within your brain. It can only be purchased by prescription.
Stimulants work by boosting and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Most people with ADHD prefer them as their first option. However, they do have adverse effects, such as insomnia, stomach upset and problems with concentration. Consult your physician in case you are experiencing any adverse effects. If the side effects are serious your doctor may suggest that you try another medication.
If you or your child are taking methylphenidate it is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking. Certain medications can cause dangerous 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.
Certain people suffering from ADHD find that methylphenidate doesn't help them. In this case your doctor may recommend other ADHD medications, such as atomoxetine and lisdexamfetamine. Psychological treatments like behavioural therapy may be helpful for some people with ADHD.
Methlphenidate can be found in short-acting as well as long-acting forms. The short-acting tablets start working within an hour and must be taken 2 or 3 times a day for an effect that is continuous. The long-acting tablets, chewable tablets and granules are absorbed in your bloodstreams more slowly and last longer than the short-acting version. Your doctor will test you for allergies to methylphenidate prior to prescribing the drug.
3. Atomoxetine
Although stimulant medications are the first choice for ADHD treatment, it can cause side effects that are difficult to accept. Nonstimulant drugs are a great option for adults who cannot take stimulant drugs or are not responsive to them. Nonstimulants increase the capacity of ADHD patients to focus, manage impulses, and to reduce hyperactivity. These drugs build up slowly within the body. This lets the medication function for a longer time, and prevents symptoms from recurring after the drug wears off. The drugs are available in various dosages and are consumed as capsules or pills. Some medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. Many people will test several drugs before they can find the one that works best for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been FDA approved to treat ADHD both in adults and children. It belongs to a category of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (SNRIs). This class of medications increases norepinephrine levels. This can aid in reducing impulsivity and increasing concentration. It is also less likely to cause side effects like agitation or anxiety than other stimulant drugs.
Before starting any new medication, it's important to talk with your doctor. It could 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 be able to monitor your changes and adjust your dosage if needed.
A variety of antidepressants are prescribed off-label for the treatment of ADHD, but they have not been specifically tested in trials for this condition. These medications are typically prescribed if you have other mental health issues like depression or anxiety, can't take stimulants, or have an history of substance abuse. Bupropion is one of the most common examples of this type of off-label medication that has been proven to be effective in some people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
It is up to you to decide whether or not to use medication as an adult for ADHD. About 70%-80% of people who receive medication see significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it is important to discuss the advantages and risks of all treatments with your healthcare provider before making a decision. If you decide to treat your ADHD it's likely that your dosage and schedule will change as you adjust to the effects of the treatment.
Stimulants, the most common treatment for ADHD help by increasing and balancing the levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. There are nonstimulant options for people who are unable to tolerate stimulants because of health problems or serious side-effects. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera is the first approved nonstimulant for ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Another antidepressant, venlafaxine (Effexor), may also help reduce ADHD symptoms, though more studies are needed to confirm this.
In addition to the medications mentioned above, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can assist you in resolving negative thoughts and habits that contribute to ADHD. In sessions, you'll learn skills such as moderation, reassessing the all-or nothing thinking, and reducing your negative self-talk. You can do CBT either on your own or in a group.
Bupropion, atypical antidepressant, is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by altering dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which improves mood and concentration. Wellbutrin is available in three daily 150 mg-450 mg doses, but your doctor may start you with a lower dose. Wellbutrin should not be taken if you suffer from eating disorders, glaucoma, or seizures.
5. Effexor
Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that's also very effective in treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it works by altering dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels. It's not FDA approved as a treatment for ADHD but it is often prescribed off-label, particularly if stimulant medications cause adverse effects that are intolerable or are contraindicated. Other antidepressants, like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms in some people.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both drugs work by increasing norepinephrine and serotonin levels in the brain, which improves the communication between nerve cells. buy adhd medication online reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity, making them an ideal option for those with ADHD who are depressed or anxious.
Some stimulant drugs can increase the risk of heart issues for young people and high school students, so non-stimulant ADHD medications are now popular among these groups as well. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera is a stimulant that increases norepinephrine. Clonidine and guanfacine affect alpha-2 receptors in the mind to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the right choice for everyone with ADHD however, and some people find that their effectiveness diminishes with time. Your medical history, genetics in your family, and response to medications will determine the most effective solution for you. Many people suffering from ADHD will test several different medications to determine the one that works best for them. It's also normal to need to adjust your dosage over time. This is particularly the case when life changes are significant. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the most effective medications for your specific situation. Then, you can choose the medications that will allow you to live your life to the fullest.