Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults can be treated using a variety of medications to treat ADHD. There are stimulants, nonstimulants, and blood pressure medication.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. They are effective and secure. They also have a low risk for abuse if taken as directed.
Long-acting stimulants are generally preferred. These are medicines like Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine patch) or Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
1. Stimulants
The first treatment that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulants. treating adhd without medication boost the levels of certain brain chemicals and improve concentration, concentration, and control of impulses. Most often, doctors prescribe medications that contain methylphenidate or amphetamine. These drugs are available in both immediate-release and longer-acting varieties. The longer-acting drugs help people avoid a "crash" in energy that could occur when stimulants with short-acting effects wear off. The kind of medication that one takes is based on their symptoms, doctor's preferences and other health issues. It's normal to have to try several different medicines before you discover one that works.
A physician will also consider the medical history of a patient as well as family history. A doctor may prescribe nonstimulant medication when a patient has an history of substance abuse or a heart condition. They don't have as much danger of abuse as stimulants, however they are slower to work and do not reduce impulsiveness.
Certain medicines may interact with others, so you should tell your doctor if taking any other medications. Antidepressants such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion, (Wellbutrin and Zyban) can increase the levels of brain chemicals called norepinephrine (dopamine) and dopamine (norepinephrine) and improve mood and concentration. Doctors prescribe these drugs to patients suffering from ADHD who also suffer from depression or anxiety. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors like phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are rarely utilized in conjunction with stimulants since they carry the potential for serious side effects when used together.
A doctor can provide coping strategies for ADHD and other professionals can assist in overcoming the challenges caused by symptoms. For instance psychiatrists or psychologists can help you understand why you have trouble at school or at work, and help you learn how to deal with those challenges. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from support groups. Talk to your doctor about support groups in your area or online.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants, which are the most studied ADHD medication, can improve concentration and reduce impulsivity in many people. But they're not the only option. Certain people might respond to nonstimulant medications. It's crucial to consult with your physician to determine the best drug and dosage for your child or yourself.
Nonstimulant medicines are used to balance and boost brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They generally take longer to start working than stimulants, however they can aid in reducing symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity for certain people. They're often prescribed in combination with stimulant medications to improve their effectiveness and lessen adverse effects.
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 levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine which can improve attention. They are also less addictive than stimulants, and don't have as much potential for abuse. Your doctor might prescribe Strattera or atomoxetine for treating ADHD. Atomoxetine targets a different neurotransmitter in the brain, and it's the first nonstimulant medication to be FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD in adults.
Guanfacine or Intuniv is another alternative. This blood pressure medicine can have a mild relaxing effect and can enhance concentration. However, it is not as effective as methylphenidate (or lisdexamfetamine) in decreasing hyperactivity.
Remember that each individual's biochemistry is distinct, and so are the medicines they use. The first medicine you or your children test might not be effective, and the medication that does work for you or your child may trigger unpleasant adverse effects. It requires a lot of experimentation and patience to find the best medication for your family.
3. Antidepressants
While stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD, they aren't the best choice for everyone. People who have trouble tolerating side effects or find the medication doesn't work well for them may be able to benefit from antidepressants that can help to alleviate anxiety and other mood disorders.
Bupropion is known under its brand name Wellbutrin or Zyban is an antidepressant that has been found to be effective in treating adults suffering from ADHD. It targets two neurotransmitters within the brain, namely norepinephrine and dopamine. It can also help treat depression and anxiety. If your ADHD symptoms are mild or moderate and you're at risk of a stimulant abuse, then your doctor may prescribe it.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a prescription medication that increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to improve concentration, focus and manage impulsive behavior. It was the FDA's first nonstimulant approved drug to treat adult ADHD. It is generally considered to be more effective than methylphenidate or amphetamines.
You may also be prescribed alprazolam, clonidine or Guanfacine. These are all blood pressure medication that can reduce your heart rate and lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of your sympathetic nervous system. This can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from coexisting ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a different treatment option that a few people with ADHD consider beneficial in managing their symptoms. CBT offers strategies to change your thinking and act. This type of treatment is typically performed by an therapist. You may also consider supplements and diets but you must consult with your doctor first. In most instances, a combination of therapy and medication along combined with training for skills is the most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medications
Many people with ADHD are diagnosed as children, but some receive the diagnosis as adults. Adults may be unable to manage their symptoms. This could affect their work performance as well as their social interactions. But medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle modifications can help people with ADHD to concentrate and feel more calm, as well as control their 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. They include clonidine (Kapvay), and guanfacine (Intuniv). They can improve mood, and help with concentration and impulse control.
These medications can also assist with depression, anxiety and aggression-related feelings. Since the beginning doctors have prescribed these medications "off-label" however, now the FDA has approved long-acting tablets for ADHD. They can offer relief from symptoms for up to 12 hours.
Another medication commonly prescribed for ADHD is bupropion, a drug that is known by its brand names such as 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 also has been proven to reduce agitation and insomnia in patients with bipolar disorder.
These non-stimulant ADHD medications have lower risk of addiction and abuse than stimulants, however they don't work for all people. Adults may need to test a few different medications before they can find one that is effective for them. The medications aren't a cure, so the person must continue taking them to avoid the symptoms returning. Your GP will evaluate the effectiveness of your medication as well as your symptoms.
5. Other medicines
The medications used to manage ADHD can enhance a person's ability to focus, manage impulses and complete tasks. They aren't a panacea for all symptoms, and may cause side effects. Some of these side effects can be minor, while others could be more severe. Certain medications may cause loss of appetite, problems with sleep and headaches. If these adverse effects are severe, the doctor might increase or alter a medication's dosage or try a different one.
Other medications, like viloxazine or atomoxetine are used to treat certain forms of ADHD. They are part of the class of antidepressants called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, which differ from stimulants in that they do not alter dopamine but boost norepinephrine. These medications are more effective in enhancing concentration than stimulants, however they do not cause hyperactivity. They can also decrease appetite or cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxide inhibitors are a different category of medication that has been shown to work for some people with ADHD. These are antidepressants that block the breakdown of dopamine and other brain chemicals. Examples include phenelzine (Nardil), Tranylcypromine (Parnate) and Venlafaxine (Effexor XR). They are less likely than other antidepressants that can cause adverse effects like appetite suppression and insomnia.
Psychological counseling is also available for those 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 be beneficial to family members and loved ones who have to deal with a person who suffers from ADHD. Support groups for people with ADHD are available on the Internet and within their communities. They can provide strategies for coping.