ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medication is the mainstay of ADHD treatment, but they don't work for all people. Antidepressants and nonstimulant drugs may help.
Adults suffering from ADHD can take medications, patches or liquids. They boost concentration and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by physicians when stimulants fail to work or cause side-effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is a brand-name for atomoxetine and is an effective ADHD medication for ADHD. Unlike stimulant medications like Adderall which boost dopamine and norepinephrine supply to the brain to reduce ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director of Mindpath Health, says that Strattera will not make you feel more energetic or increase anxiety. It is able to control impulse-driven behaviors, without causing more anxiety or jitteriness. He says that atomoxetine can be a suitable option for those who are concerned about substance abuse or have medical reasons to avoid stimulants.
Strattera is classified by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine-Reuptake Inhibitor an antidepressant that alters the brain's use of Norepinephrine. It's often prescribed for depression, but can treat ADHD too, and may be particularly helpful for people with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety, according to Dr. Zand. It is usually prescribed in smaller doses initially, and then gradually increased based on a person's age and weight.
The most frequently reported side effect is drowsiness. Other common effects include nausea and changes in appetite. Strattera can interact with a variety of medications including stimulants, and is not recommended to be taken with Clonidine or any other medication that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer for it to take effect and can last for up to 24 hours. In some cases doctors may recommend mixing Strattera with stimulants, such as adding Adderall to Ritalin to enhance the effects of each. This is not very common and should be done with the advice of a doctor. Additionally to this, the FDA places a black box warning on Strattera warning that it may lead to serious and potentially life-threatening liver issues in certain individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is part of a class of drugs called central nervous stimulants. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy, which is a sleep disorder that manifests as excessive nighttime sleepiness, as well as sudden periods of sleep. Methlphenidate changes the amount of certain natural substances within your brain. This medication is only available on prescription.
Stimulants help by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. They are the first choice for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. However, they can have side effects such as stomach upset, insomnia and trouble with concentration. Consult your physician in case you are experiencing any adverse effects. If the adverse effects are severe your doctor may suggest that you try an alternative medication.
If you or your child is taking methylphenidate, it's important to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking. Certain medicines can interact with methylphenidate and result in harmful side effects. Inform your doctor if you've ever suffered from seizures, depression or other mental health issues.
Some people with ADHD find that methylphenidate does not help them. In this case, your doctor may recommend other ADHD treatments such as the atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Some people with ADHD might also benefit from psychological treatments such as behavioural therapy.
Methlphenidate comes in short-acting and long-acting forms. The tablets that work short-acting start to work in about an hour and should be taken two or three times a day for an all-day effect. The long-acting tablets, chewable tablets and granules build up in your bloodstreams more slowly and last longer than the short-acting version. Your doctor will test for methylphenidate allergy before prescribing the drug.
3. add adhd medications I Am Psychiatry
While stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment option for ADHD but they can also cause adverse effects that are difficult to tolerate. Nonstimulant medications are a good option for adults who cannot take stimulant drugs or are not able to respond to them. Nonstimulants enhance the capacity of ADHD patients to pay attention, to manage impulses, and to reduce hyperactivity. The drugs are slowly absorbed in the body. This allows the medication to be effective for a long period of time, and also prevents symptoms from returning when the drug is gone. The medications are typically taken as pills or capsules and come in different strengths. Some medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. It is common 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 both in adults and children. It is part of a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine receptor inhibits (SNRIs). This class of medications increases norepinephrine levels, which can reduce impulsivity while increasing concentration. It is also less likely to cause negative side effects such as agitation and anxiety than other stimulant medications.
It is essential to speak with your doctor before beginning any new medication. There may not be any changes 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 monitoring you and make adjustments to your dosage if needed.
These antidepressants have not been tested specifically for ADHD. They are usually prescribed when you suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety or depression, cannot take stimulants, or have a history of drug abuse. Bupropion is a common example of this kind of off-label medication that has been proven to be effective in some individuals.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to seek treatment 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. However, it's crucial to discuss the advantages and risks of any treatment with your physician prior to making the decision. If you decide to take medication to treat ADHD the dosage and schedule could alter as time passes.
Stimulants, the most popular treatment for ADHD help by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. There are alternatives to stimulants that aren't as harmful for adults who cannot tolerate stimulants because of health problems or severe side effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug that has been approved for ADHD, and it is a stimulant that works on norepinephrine within the brain to increase focus and attention. Another antidepressant, venlafaxine (Effexor), may also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms, but more studies are required to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a supplement to the medications listed above can help you alter bad habits and thoughts that can contribute to ADHD. Through sessions, you'll learn techniques such as moderation, reassessing the all or nothing mentality, and reducing the negative self-talk you have about yourself. You can do CBT either on your own or in a group.
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that can be prescribed off-label for treating ADHD. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, which improves mood and concentration. Wellbutrin can be taken in three daily 150 mg to 450 mg doses, however your doctor may recommend starting with a lower dosage. Wellbutrin should not be taken if you suffer from eating disorders, glaucoma, or seizures.
5. Effexor
Venlafaxine, also known as Effexor, is an antidepressant that is also effective for treating ADHD. It works similarly to stimulants, affecting levels of norepinephrine and dopamine. It's not FDA approved to be used as treatment for ADHD however, it is often prescribed off-label to treat the condition, especially when stimulant medications are contraindicated or cause intolerable unwanted side effects. Other antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), can also 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 medications increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels within the brain, which improves communication between nerve cells. They also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity, making them a great choice for people with ADHD who are depressed or anxious.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication is also very popular among high school students and young people due to the fact that stimulant drugs may increase the risk of heart disease. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases levels of norepinephrine, while guanfacine and clonidine affect the alpha-2 adrenergic nerves in the brain, which reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Nonstimulant medications aren't the right choice for everyone with ADHD However, certain people notice that their effectiveness decreases over time. Your medical history, the genetics of your family, and the response to medication will determine the best treatment for you. Many people suffering from ADHD will test several different medications to find the one that works best for them. It's normal to need to change your dosage over time particularly when major life changes happen. Consult your physician to learn more about the best medications for your specific situation. Then, you'll be able to pick those that will enable you to live your life to the fullest.