Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
There are a variety of choices to treat ADHD in adults. They include stimulants, non-stimulants and blood pressure medications.
Stimulants are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are safe and effective. When used in the right way they also pose a low abuse risk.
Long-acting stimulants are generally preferred. These are medicines like Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine patch) or Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are often the first choice for doctors when it comes to medication to treat ADHD. They boost the levels of a specific brain chemicals and enhance concentration as well as focus and impulse control. Most commonly, doctors prescribe medications that contain methylphenidate or amphetamine. They are available in immediate-release as well as long-acting formulas. The longer-acting medications help to avoid the "crash" in energy levels that can occur when stimulants that short-act wear off. The type of medicine an individual takes is determined by their symptoms, preference of their doctor, and other health issues. It's normal to many different medications before you find one that is effective.
A doctor will also take into consideration the medical history of a patient as well as family history. If a person is suffering from a heart problem or a family history of substance abuse doctors may choose to prescribe non-stimulant drugs. These don't have the same potential for misuse as stimulants, however they are more difficult to use and don't reduce impulsiveness as effectively.
Certain medicines may interact with others which is why you should inform your doctor if you're taking any other medications. Antidepressants like atomoxetine, (Prozac), and bupropion, (Wellbutrin and Zyban) boost the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine (dopamine) and dopamine (norepinephrine) and boost mood and concentration. Doctors sometimes prescribe these to treat people suffering from ADHD particularly when they suffer from anxiety or depression. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are not commonly used in combination with stimulants since they carry an increased risk of serious side effects when used together.
A doctor can help you learn strategies to manage your ADHD, and other professionals can assist you to deal with the issues caused by your symptoms. A psychiatrist or psychologist for instance can help you comprehend the reasons behind why you're struggling at work or school and help you learn how to deal with these issues. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from support groups. Ask your doctor about online or local support groups.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants are the most well-studied ADHD drugs that can boost concentration and reduce the impulsivity of many. medication for autism and adhd 're not the only option. Certain people may prefer non-stimulant medications, and it's important to consult your physician to determine the best dosage and drug for you or your child.
Nonstimulant drugs work by boosting and balancing brain chemical called neurotransmitters. They usually take longer to get started than stimulants, but they can aid some people with hyperactivity and impulsivity. They're also often prescribed along with stimulant medications to improve their effectiveness and lessen side effects.
Two antidepressants that are popular are used as non-stimulant medications for ADHD: Wellbutrin (also known as bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Both of these drugs boost levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine which can boost the quality of attention. They are also less addictive than stimulants, and don't carry as much potential for abuse. Your doctor might prescribe Strattera or atomoxetine to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine targets a different neurotransmitter in the brain, and it's the first non-stimulant medication that has been approved by the FDA for treatment of ADHD in adults.
Guanfacine or Intuniv is another alternative. This blood pressure medication has a small relaxing effect and can help improve concentration, but it's not as effective at decreasing impulsivity or hyperactivity as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
It's important to remember that just as every person has a different biochemistry, so do the medications they are taking. The first medication that you or your children try may not work, and the medication that works for you or your child may cause unpleasant side effects. Finding the right medication takes patience and a lot of experimentation.
3. Antidepressants
Although stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD, they may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Antidepressants may be beneficial for people who are unable to tolerate adverse effects of stimulants or don't find that the medication is effective for them.
Bupropion is known under its brand name Wellbutrin or Zyban, is an atypical antidepressant that has been found to be effective in treating adults with ADHD. It targets two neurotransmitters that are present in the brain, namely dopamine and norepinephrine. It can also be used to treat anxiety and depression. Your doctor may prescribe it if you have ADHD symptoms are moderate to mild, or you are at risk of abusing stimulants.
Strattera (atomoxetine), an approved prescription medication that has long-acting effects, raises the levels of norepinephrine within the brain. This can improve concentration and focus and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. It was the FDA's very first non-stimulant approved drug to treat adult ADHD. It is generally thought to be more effective than methylphenidate or amphetamines.
Your doctor could also prescribe guanfacine, clonidine or alprazolam These are blood pressure medicines that reduce the sympathetic nervous system's activity to slow down your heart rate and lower your blood pressure. This can be especially helpful for those suffering from co-existing ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a different treatment option that some people with ADHD find to be an effective tool to manage their symptoms. CBT teaches strategies to change your behavior and thinking. This kind of therapy is usually carried out by a therapist. You may also consider supplements and diets but you must consult with your physician first. In many instances, a combination of treatment and medication that includes skills training is the most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medications
Many people who suffer from ADHD get diagnosed in childhood, but some receive a diagnosis as adults. Adults may still find it challenging to manage their symptoms, which could affect their work performance and social interactions. Adults who suffer from ADHD may benefit from medications therapy, psychotherapy, or lifestyle changes to help them focus more easily, feel calmer, and control impulsive behaviors.
If stimulants don't work or cause intolerable side effects, some adults attempt to take medication that is typically used to treat high blood pressure. These medications are known as alpha-2-agonists and include clonidine (Kapvay), and guanfacine, (Intuniv). They can have a positive impact on mood and help with concentration and impulse control.
These medications can also assist with anxiety, depression, and feelings of aggression. Doctors have been prescribing them "off-label" for ADHD for years, but the drugs are now available in tablets with a long-acting mechanism that are FDA-approved for treating the condition. They can provide symptom relief for up to 12 hours.
Bupropion is a different medication that is prescribed for ADHD. It is available under the brand names Wellbutrin or Zyban. It is an atypical antidepressant that works as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, increasing levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. It has been demonstrated to reduce agitation, insomnia and bipolar disorder in patients.
Although these non-stimulant ADHD medicines have lower risks of addiction and abuse than stimulants, they do not work for everyone. Adults may need to test a few different medications before they find the one that is effective for them. The medications aren't a cure, so the person must continue to take medications to prevent the symptoms returning. Your GP will monitor the effectiveness of your medication and your symptoms.
5. Other medication
The medications used to manage ADHD can enhance a person's ability to concentrate, control impulses, and complete tasks. They are not a cure-all for all symptoms, and may cause side effects. Some of these side-effects can be mild, while others could be severe. Certain medications may cause a loss of appetite, problems with sleep and headaches. If the side effects are severe, a doctor may increase or change the dosage of a medication or suggest another.
Other medications are used to treat specific types of ADHD such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and viloxazine (Qelbree). These antidepressants are referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They differ from stimulants in that they don't increase dopamine, but rather increase norepinephrine. These drugs are more effective in enhancing attention than stimulants, but they don't cause hyperactivity. They can also reduce appetite and cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are another class of medication that has been shown to be effective for some people with ADHD. These antidepressants inhibit the breakdown of dopamine and brain chemicals. Examples include the phenelzine (Nardil) and Tranylcypromine (Parnate) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR). They are less likely than other antidepressants that can cause side effects such as appetite suppression and insomnia.
Psychological counseling is also available to people with ADHD. CBT is also known as cognitive behavior therapy and involves working with a therapist in order to develop skills that can assist in managing ADHD. It can also be helpful for loved ones struggling with living with someone with ADHD. Support groups for people suffering from ADHD are available on the Internet and within their communities. They can provide strategies for dealing with the disorder.