Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
There are a variety of choices to treat ADHD in adults. They include stimulants, non-stimulants as well as blood pressure medications.
Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD. They work well and are safe. 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
The first treatment that doctors use to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels of certain brain chemicals, and can improve concentration, focus, and control of impulses. The majority of doctors prescribe drugs which contain amphetamine or methylphenidate. They are available in immediate-release as well as long-acting versions. The longer-acting drugs are able to assist in avoiding the "crash" of energy that occurs when short-acting stimulants are worn off. The kind of medication that one takes is based on his or her symptoms, doctor's preferences and other health conditions. It is normal to test different medications before finding the one that suits your needs.
A physician will also take into consideration the family history of a patient as well as medical history. A doctor may prescribe nonstimulant medication in the event of a history of substance abuse or heart disease. They don't have the risk of misuse as stimulants, however they are more difficult to use and do not reduce impulsiveness as effectively.
Some medications can interfere with other medications, therefore it is important to inform your doctor about any other medication you are taking. Antidepressants, such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) boost levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine and improve concentration and mood. Doctors prescribe these drugs to people with ADHD who also suffer from anxiety or depression. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as phenelzine (Nardil), and tranylcypromine, (Parnate) are not often prescribed in combination with stimulants due the high chance of serious adverse side negative effects.
A doctor can provide coping strategies for ADHD and other professionals can aid you in coping with the problems caused by symptoms. A psychiatrist or psychologist, for example can help you comprehend the reasons you're having difficulties at school and work and teach you how to deal with these issues. Support groups can also be helpful for adults with ADHD. 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 impulsivity for many people. They're not the only option. Some people respond to nonstimulant medication. It's essential to work closely with your doctor to determine the right medication and dosage for your child or you.
Nonstimulant medicines work by balancing and boosting neurotransmitters in the brain. They typically take longer to start working than stimulants but can help those suffering from hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are usually prescribed along with stimulant medications in order to boost their effectiveness and reduce unwanted side consequences.
Two antidepressants that are popular are used as nonstimulant medications for ADHD: Wellbutrin (also known as bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Both of these drugs increase the brain chemical norepinephrine as well as enhance attention. They're also generally less habit-forming than stimulants, and don't have the same danger of abuse. Your doctor may also prescribe atomoxetine, or Strattera, to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine targets a different neurotransmitter in the brain. It's the first non-stimulant medication to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD in adults.
Another option is guanfacine or Intuniv. This blood pressure medication has a slight calming effect, and can improve concentration. However, it is not as efficient as methylphenidate (or the lisdexamfetamine) in decreasing hyperactivity.
It is important to keep in mind that just as every person has their own biochemistry, so too do the medications they take. The first drug you or your child takes might not be the best, and the one that works for you or your child might have unpleasant adverse effects. It requires a lot of experimentation and patience to find the right medication for your family.
3. Antidepressants
While stimulants are frequently prescribed to treat ADHD, they may not be the right choice for all. Patients who have difficulty absorbing adverse side effects or who find that the medication doesn't work for them might benefit from antidepressants, which can ease anxiety and other mood disorders.
Bupropion is also known as its brand name Wellbutrin or Zyban, is an atypical antidepressant that has been proven effective in treating adults suffering from ADHD. It targets two neurotransmitters -- norepinephrine, and dopamine within the brain. It is also used to treat depression and anxiety. If your ADHD symptoms are mild or moderate and you're at risk of stimulant abuse Your doctor might prescribe it.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a prescription medication that increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improves focus, concentration and control of impulsive behavior. It was the FDA's very first non-stimulant approved drug to treat adult ADHD. It is generally believed to be more effective than methylphenidate and amphetamines.
There are also prescriptions for clonidine, alprazolam or Guanfacine. These are all blood pressure medication which can slow down your heart rate and lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of your sympathetic nervous system. This is especially useful for people who have ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a different treatment option that a few people with ADHD consider a useful tool for managing their symptoms. CBT teaches strategies to change your behavior and thinking. This kind of treatment is typically done by the help of a therapist. You can also try supplements and diets, but consult your doctor first. In most cases, a combination between medication and therapy with skills training is most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medications
Adults are often diagnosed with ADHD after having been diagnosed as children. Adults may still find it challenging to manage their symptoms, which can impact their work performance and social interactions. But medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes can help those suffering from ADHD to concentrate and calm down, as well as manage their impulsive behaviors.
Adults who are experiencing high blood pressure may consider taking a medication prescribed to treat the problem. These medications are known as alpha-2-agonists and include clonidine, (Kapvay), and guanfacine, (Intuniv). They can improve mood, as well as aid in 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 a long time, but they are now available in long-acting tablets that have been FDA-approved for the condition. They can provide symptom control for 10 to 12 hours.
Another medication that is often prescribed for ADHD is bupropion, which is marketed by brand names like Wellbutrin and Zyban. It is an atypical antidepressant that works as a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, increasing levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. It has also been shown to decrease insomnia and agitation in people with bipolar disorder.
natural adhd medication -stimulant ADHD medications are less prone to risk of addiction and abuse than stimulants, but they're not for everyone. Some adults need to test various medications before settling on the one that works for them. The medications are not a cure, therefore the person must continue to take them to avoid symptoms returning. Your GP will be able to monitor your symptoms and the effectiveness of the medication.
5. Other medicines
The medications used to treat ADHD can help improve an individual's ability to concentrate, control impulses, and complete tasks. However, they are not a cure for all symptoms, and they often trigger side effects that need to be controlled. Some of these side effects can be mild, but some can be more serious. Certain medications can cause headaches, sleep problems and loss of appetite. If these adverse reactions are severe, the doctor might increase or alter a medication's dosage or try a different one.
Other medications, such as viloxazine or atomoxetine are used to treat specific forms of ADHD. These antidepressants are referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They differ from stimulants in that they don't increase dopamine levels, but instead increase norepinephrine. These medications are more effective at improving attention than stimulants, but they don't cause hyperactivity. They also can reduce appetite or cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are another category of medication that has been proven to be effective for some people with ADHD. These antidepressants stop the breakdown of dopamine and brain chemical. Examples include phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and venlafaxine. They are less likely to cause side effects such as appetite suppression and insomnia than other antidepressants.
People suffering from ADHD may also benefit from psychological counseling. CBT is also referred to as cognitive behavior therapy and involves working with a therapist to learn skills that will help manage ADHD. It can also be helpful for family members and loved ones who are struggling with the challenges of living with someone who has ADHD. People suffering from ADHD can also join support groups on the Internet and in their local communities that can offer coping strategies.