ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
Stimulant medications are the cornerstone for ADHD treatment, but they may not work for everyone. Nonstimulant drugs and antidepressants may aid.
Medications for adults with ADHD could be pills, patches, or liquids. They boost concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by doctors in the event that stimulants don't work or cause adverse effects.
1. Strattera
Strattera is an atomoxetine brand name, is an effective ADHD medication for adults. Contrary to stimulant medications such as 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 at Mindpath Health, says that Strattera does not cause you to feel more energetic or increase anxiety. It can help control the impulsive behavior without causing more anxiety or jitteriness. He suggests that atomoxetine may be a good choice for those who are worried about the effects of substance abuse or have medical reasons to avoid stimulants.
Doctors identify Strattera as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, an antidepressant drug that affects the brain by altering its use of norepinephrine. It's often prescribed for depression, but it's also used to treat ADHD as well, and may be particularly helpful for those suffering from co-occurring ADHD and anxiety, notes Dr. Zand. It's typically prescribed at smaller doses initially, then increased gradually depending on the person's weight and their age.
The most common side effect is drowsiness. Other typical side effects include nausea and changes in appetite. Strattera can interact with several medications which include stimulants. It should not be taken with Clonidine or any other medication that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to work than stimulants and may take up to 24 hours for it to wear off. In certain instances, doctors will recommend combining Strattera with stimulants, for instance, adding Adderall to Ritalin to increase the effects of each. But this isn't very common and should be done with a doctor's instructions. The FDA has also placed a black-box warning on Strattera warning that the drug could cause serious and even fatal liver problems in some individuals.
2. Methylphenidate
Methlphenidate is part of a class of drugs called central nervous stimulants. It is also used to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and abrupt periods of sleep. Methlphenidate affects the levels of certain natural substances within your brain. This medication can only be purchased with a prescription.
Stimulants boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. Many people suffering from ADHD opt for them as their first option. However, they can cause negative side effects like stomach upset, insomnia and trouble with concentration. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing adverse effects. If they are serious they might suggest a different medication for you.
If you or your child is taking methylphenidate, it is essential to inform your doctor about any other medications you take. Some medicines can interact with methylphenidate and result in dangerous side effects. Tell your doctor if you've ever had a history of seizures, depression, or other mental health issues.
Certain people suffering from ADHD find that methylphenidate does not help them. In this case, your doctor will recommend other ADHD medications, such as atomoxetine and lisdexamfetamine. Psychological treatments such as behavioral therapy can be beneficial for certain people suffering from ADHD.
Methlphenidate can be found in both short-acting tablets as well as long-acting tablets. The short-acting tablet starts working in an hour. It is taken twice or three times a day for a 24 hour effect. Long-acting tablets enter the bloodstream slowly and last longer. Certain patients are allergic to methylphenidate, so your doctor will test you for the allergy prior to prescribing it.
3. Atomoxetine
While stimulant medications are the first choice for ADHD treatment, it can be associated with side effects that are difficult to accept. Nonstimulant medications are an excellent option for people who cannot tolerate stimulant medications or are not responsive to them. Nonstimulants help to increase the capacity to pay attention, control impulses, and reduce hyperactivity in people with ADHD. These drugs take time to work and are absorbed within the body over time. This lets the medication function for a longer period of time, and also prevents the symptoms from returning once the drug has worn off. These medications are usually taken in capsules or pills and are available in various strengths. Certain medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. Many people will try several drugs before they can find the one that works best for them.
Atomoxetine is an antidepressant which has been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibits (SNRIs). This class of drugs increases the amount of norepinephrine. This helps to reduce impulsivity and increase concentration. It is also less likely to cause negative side effects like agitation or anxiety than other stimulant drugs.
It is important to talk with your physician prior to beginning any new medication. There may not be any changes in your symptoms for a few weeks however, you must continue taking the medication according to your doctor's instructions. Your doctor will track your progress and adjust your dosage if required.
These antidepressants have not been tested specifically for ADHD. These medications are prescribed to people who suffer from anxiety, depression, cannot tolerate stimulants or have a history of drug abuse history. Bupropion is one of the most common examples of this kind of medication that is off-label, and has been proven to be effective in certain people.
4. Wellbutrin/Zyban
The decision to seek treatment for ADHD as an adult is a decision that is personal to you. It is crucial to discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of every treatment before making a choice. If you decide to try medication for ADHD, your dosage and schedule might change over time.
Stimulants, which are the most commonly used medication for ADHD are used to boost and balancing levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. However, there are a few alternatives to nonstimulants for people who are struggling with stimulants due to health problems or serious side effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug that has been approved for ADHD and acts on norepinephrine in the brain to increase focus and attention. Another antidepressant called venlafaxine (Effexor) can help reduce ADHD symptoms, although more studies are required to confirm this.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as to the medication mentioned above, can help you change bad habits and thoughts that contribute to ADHD. Through sessions, you'll be taught techniques like moderation and reassessing your all-or-nothing mentality, and decreasing negative self-talk. You can do CBT as a solo or in a group.
Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant that can be taken off-label to treat ADHD. It works by altering dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which improves concentration and mood. Wellbutrin is usually consumed in three daily doses of 150 mg up to 450 mg, though your doctor may start with a lower dose. It is not recommended to use Wellbutrin when you have an history of seizure disorders eating disorders, a disorder of the stomach, or glaucoma.
5. Effexor
Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that's also very effective in treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it functions by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine levels. It isn't FDA approved to be used as a treatment for ADHD, but it's frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition, particularly when stimulant medications are contraindicated or cause unacceptably adverse negative side effects. Other antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are also able to help improve ADHD symptoms in some people.
Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both drugs work by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain. This improves communication between nerve cells. adhd stimulant medication lower the risk of hyperactivity and impulsivity, making them good choices for people with ADHD who have depression or anxiety.
Some stimulant drugs can increase the risk of heart issues in children and high school students, so nonstimulant ADHD drugs have become increasingly popular with these groups as well. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases norepinephrine levels as well as guanfacine, clonidine and guanfa alter the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain, which reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Some people's effectiveness with non-stimulant medications decreases over time. The best option for you will depend on your medical history, genetics in your family, and reaction to medications. Many people with ADHD test various medications to find the one that works best for themselves. It's also normal to alter your dosage as you progress. This is especially relevant when changes in your life are significant. Talk to your doctor to find out more about the best medications for your particular situation. You can then choose the medication that will allow you to live your life fully.