Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
There are a variety of choices to treat ADHD in adults. These include stimulants, non-stimulants and blood pressure medications.
types of adhd medication are the most frequently prescribed treatment for ADHD. They are effective and safe. When used in the right way they also pose a low abuse risk.
It is generally recommended to choose stimulants that have an effect that lasts for a long time. These are medicines like Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine patch) or Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are usually the first choice of a doctor's treatment for ADHD. They increase the levels of a certain brain chemical and improve concentration and focus as well as impulse control. Doctors most commonly prescribe medications that contain amphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs are available in immediate-release and longer-acting forms. The longer-acting drugs can help to avoid the "crash" in energy that can occur when short-acting stimulants are absorbed. The type of medication is determined by their symptoms as well as the preferences of the doctor and other health conditions. It's normal to try several different medicines before settling on one that works for you.
A doctor will also take into consideration the history of the family member as well as medical history. A doctor can prescribe nonstimulant medication when a patient has an addiction history or an underlying heart condition. They don't have the potential for misuse as stimulants, however they are more difficult to use and aren't as effective in reducing impulsiveness.
Certain medications can interact with other medications, so it's essential to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking. Antidepressants, such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin Zyban) increase levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine and boost mood and concentration. Doctors often prescribe these medications to treat people suffering from ADHD especially in the case of depression or anxiety. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are not often utilized in conjunction with stimulants due to an increased risk of serious side effects when taken together.
A doctor can instruct you on strategies for coping with ADHD and other professionals can aid you in overcoming the challenges caused by symptoms. For instance, a psychologist or psychiatrist can assist you in understanding the reasons you struggle at school or at work, and help you learn how to handle those issues. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from support groups. Consult your physician about online or local support groups.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants, the most researched ADHD medication, can help improve concentration and decrease impulsivity in many people. But they're not the only option. Some people may respond better to nonstimulant medication It's essential to consult your physician to find the right drug and dosage for you or your child.
Nonstimulant drugs work by boosting and balancing brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They generally take longer to get started than stimulants, but they can assist those suffering from hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are typically prescribed with stimulant medications in order to improve their effectiveness and minimize unwanted adverse negative effects.
Two popular antidepressants are commonly used as non-stimulant medications for ADHD: Wellbutrin (also known as bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). Both of these medications can increase the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine and improve attention. They're also generally less habit-forming than stimulants and don't carry the same danger of abuse. Your doctor may prescribe Strattera or atomoxetine to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults. It targets a different neurotransmitter.
Guanfacine or Intuniv is another alternative. This medicine for blood pressure has a slight relaxing effect and can enhance concentration. However, it is not as efficient as methylphenidate (or Lisdexamfetamine) in decreasing hyperactivity.
It's important to remember that just as every person has their own biochemistry, so do the medications they are taking. The first medication that you or your children try might not be effective, and the medication that works for you or your child may trigger unpleasant adverse side effects. Finding the right medication takes patience and perseverance.
3. Antidepressants
Although stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD but they may not be the best option for everyone. Antidepressants can be helpful for those who are unable to take the side effects of stimulants or do not find that the medication works well for them.
Bupropion is known under its brand name Wellbutrin or Zyban is an antidepressant with atypical properties that has been proven to be effective in treating adults suffering from ADHD. It targets two neurotransmitters- norepinephrine, and dopamine -- in the brain. It can also treat anxiety and depression. If your ADHD symptoms are mild or moderate, and you are at risk of stimulant abuse, then your doctor may prescribe it.
Strattera (atomoxetine), an prescription drug with a long-acting effect, increases the levels of norepinephrine that are present in the brain. This improves concentration and focus and reduce impulse-driven behaviors. It was the first nonstimulant drug approved by the FDA to treat adult ADHD and is generally considered to be more efficient than amphetamines or methylphenidate for this condition.
You could also be prescribed alprazolam, clonidine or guanfacine. These are all blood pressure medications that can lower your heart rate and lower blood pressure by decreasing the activity of your sympathetic nervous system. This is especially useful for those suffering from ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a second treatment option that some with ADHD consider to be a useful tool for managing their symptoms. CBT teaches strategies to change your behavior and thinking. This kind of treatment is typically carried out with the help of a therapy. You may also consider supplements and diets but you must consult with your doctor first. In types of adhd medication , a combination of medications with therapy and skills training is the most effective approach to treat ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medication
Adults are often diagnosed with ADHD after being diagnosed as children. Adults may find it difficult to manage their symptoms. This could affect their performance at work and social interactions. Adults with ADHD can benefit from medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments to assist them in focusing more easily, feel calmer and manage their impulsive behavior.
Adults suffering from high blood pressure may take a medication that is typically prescribed to treat the problem. These are referred to as alpha-2-agonists. They include clonidine (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv). They can boost mood and aid in concentration and control of impulses.
These medications also aid with anxiety, depression and aggression-related feelings. For years, doctors have prescribed these medications "off-label" however, now the FDA has approved long-acting tablets for ADHD. They can help alleviate symptoms for up to 12 hours.
Bupropion is another medication that is prescribed for ADHD. It is sold 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 also has been proven to decrease insomnia and agitation in patients with bipolar disorder.
These non-stimulant ADHD medications are less prone to risk of addiction and abuse than stimulants, but they aren't for everyone. Adults may have to try a few different medications before they discover the one that works for them. The medications aren't the only solution for ADHD and therefore, a person should continue taking them to prevent the symptoms from recurring. Your GP will keep track of your symptoms and the efficacy of the medication.
5. Other medications
The drugs used to treat ADHD can help improve a person's ability to concentrate, control impulses, and complete tasks. However, they're not a cure for all symptoms and often trigger adverse effects that must be controlled. Some of these side effects could be mild, but some may be more serious. Certain medications can cause sleep issues, headaches and a loss of appetite. If the side effects are severe, a doctor may increase or decrease the dose of a medication or suggest a different one.
Other medications, such as viloxazine and atomoxetine can be used to treat certain types of ADHD. These antidepressants are called selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They differ from stimulants in that they don't increase dopamine, but instead increase the amount of norepinephrine. These drugs are more effective in improving attention than stimulants, but they do not cause hyperactivity. They can also reduce appetite and cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are another class of medication that have been proven to be effective in people suffering from ADHD. These antidepressants stop the breakdown of dopamine and brain chemicals. Examples include phenelzine, Tranylcypromine, as well as Venlafaxine. They are less likely than other antidepressants that can cause side effects such as appetite suppression and insomnia.
Psychological counseling is also offered to those suffering from ADHD. It is often referred to as cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT and involves working with a therapist who is trained to learn skills that can help manage ADHD symptoms. It is also beneficial for loved ones struggling with living with someone with ADHD. Support groups for people suffering from ADHD are available on the Internet and in their local communities. They can offer strategies for coping.