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 nonstimulant drugs may aid.
Medications for adults with ADHD can include patches, pills or liquids. They can improve concentration and decrease impulsive behavior. Doctors often prescribe them if stimulants aren't effective or cause adverse effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is the brand name of atomoxetine is a highly effective ADHD medication for adults. Strattera differs from stimulant medications such as Adderall that increase dopamine, norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. Strattera reduces ADHD symptoms without the need for this. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director at Mindpath Health, says that Strattera does not cause you to feel energized or increase anxiety. It is able to control the impulsive behavior without causing more anxiety or jitteriness. He suggests that atomoxetine may be a good choice for those who are concerned about the effects of substance abuse or have medical reasons to stay away from stimulants.
Strattera is classified by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor an antidepressant that alters 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 can be particularly beneficial for those who have the comorbidity of ADHD with anxiety. It's typically prescribed at smaller doses to start and then gradually increased depending on the person's weight and age.
The most common adverse effects include drowsiness, nausea, and changes in appetite. Strattera can interact with a variety of medications which include stimulants. It should not be taken in conjunction with clonidine or other drugs that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It is more difficult to work than stimulants, and can take up to 24 hours for it to wear off. Doctors may suggest combining Strattera and stimulants to extend the effects. For instance, combining Adderall with Ritalin. This isn't a common practice, and should only be done under the supervision of a physician. The FDA has also issued a black-box warning for Strattera, indicating that the drug may cause serious and potentially fatal liver problems in certain people.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is part of a class of drugs known as central nervous stimulants. It also treats Narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness and abrupt episodes of sleep). Methlphenidate works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances within your brain. This medication is only available with a prescription.
Stimulants help by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. They are the first choice for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. However, they do have negative side effects like stomach upset, insomnia and trouble with concentration. Talk to your doctor about the side effects you're experiencing. If the adverse effects are severe, your doctor may recommend that you try a different medication.
It is essential to inform your doctor if you or your child is taking methylphenidate. Certain medicines can interact with methylphenidate, and result in dangerous side effects. Talk to your doctor if ever had a history of depression, seizures or any other mental health issues.
Some people suffering from ADHD don't respond to methylphenidate. In this situation, your doctor will recommend alternative ADHD medications, such as lisdexamfetamine and atomoxetine. Certain people suffering from ADHD can also benefit from psychological treatments, such as behavioural treatment.
Methlphenidate can be found in short-acting as well as long-acting varieties. The tablets that are short-acting begin to work within a matter of minutes and must be taken two or three times per day to get an all-day effect. adhd anxiety medication -acting tablets enter your bloodstream more slowly and last longer. Certain patients are allergic to methylphenidate. Your doctor will examine you for the presence of this allergy before prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
Although stimulant medications are the first-choice treatment for ADHD but they can also cause negative side effects that are difficult to tolerate. Adults who are unable to take stimulant medications, or who do not respond well to them, might benefit from nonstimulant medication. Nonstimulants improve the ability of ADHD patients to pay attention, to control impulses, and reduce hyperactivity. They are slow to work and accumulate in the body over time. This allows the medication to function for a long period of time and stops the symptoms from recurring after the drug has worn off. The medications are typically taken in capsules or pills and are available in a variety of strengths. Some are long-acting and last for up to 16 hours. Many people will test several drugs before they can find the one that works for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that is approved by the FDA to treat ADHD in children and adults. It is part of a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of medication increases norepinephrine levels. This can aid in reducing impulsivity and increasing concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse side effects like anxiety or agitation than other stimulant medication.
Before starting any new medication, it is important to talk with your doctor. It may 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 monitoring you and adjust the dosage as needed.
Certain antidepressants are available off-label in the treatment of ADHD however they haven't been evaluated in clinical trials for this condition. These medications are prescribed to those who suffer from anxiety, depression or aversion to stimulants, or have a substance abuse history. Bupropion, a popular off-label drug, has proved to be effective for certain people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
It is up to you whether or not you decide to start taking medication as an adult for ADHD. It is crucial to discuss with your healthcare provider the potential risks and benefits of each treatment before making a choice. If you decide to use medication for ADHD the dosage and schedule may change as time passes.
Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD They work through a mechanism that enhances and balances levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. However, there are a few alternatives that aren't stimulants for those who struggle with stimulants due to health issues or serious adverse reactions. Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is the first approved nonstimulant for ADHD. It helps by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. Venlafaxine (Effexor) can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. However more research is needed to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in addition 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, reassessing all-or-nothing thinking, and the reduction of negative self-talk. You can try CBT on your own or as part of an ensemble.
Bupropion, an antidepressant that is atypical is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by altering dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, thereby improving mood and concentration. Wellbutrin can be used in three daily 150 mg-450 mg doses, however your doctor might start you with a lower dose. It is not recommended to use Wellbutrin when you have any history of seizure disorder, eating disorders, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant, which is also effective in treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels. It's not FDA approved as an treatment for ADHD but is often prescribed off-label, particularly if stimulant drugs cause side effects that are intolerable or are not recommended. Certain people may also benefit from antidepressants such as bupropion and duloxetine, which are available under the brand names Wellbutrin and Cymbalta.
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 within the brain, improving communication between nerve cells. They also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity, making them a great choice for people with ADHD who are anxious or depressed.
Certain stimulants can increase the risk of heart problems in young people and high school students, therefore nonstimulant ADHD medications are now popular among these groups as well. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, increases norepinephrine. Clonidine and Guanfacine alter alpha-2 receptors in the brain to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Certain people's effectiveness with nonstimulant medications decreases over time. The most effective solution for you will depend on your medical history, genetics in your family, and reaction to treatment. 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 over time. This is particularly relevant when changes in your life are significant. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the most effective medications for your specific situation. Then, you can choose the medication that will allow you to live your life fully.