Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults can be treated with a variety of medications to treat ADHD. There are stimulants, nonstimulants, and blood pressure medications.
Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD. They work well and are safe. They also have a low risk for abuse if taken according to the directions.
Long-acting stimulants are usually 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. They increase the levels of certain brain chemicals and increase concentration, focus and control of impulses. Doctors most commonly prescribe medications which contain methylphenidate or amphetamine. They are available in immediate-release as well as long-acting versions. The longer-acting drugs can assist in avoiding the "crash" of energy that occurs when short-acting stimulants are worn off. The type of medication an individual chooses is determined by their symptoms, the doctor's preference and any other health conditions. It's normal for people many different medications before you find one that is effective.
A doctor will also take into consideration the medical history of the patient and family history. A doctor might prescribe non-stimulant medication in the event of an history of substance abuse or a heart condition. They don't have as much risk of abuse as stimulants, but they are slower to work and do not reduce the amount of impulsivity.
Certain medications can interact with others which is why you should inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications. Antidepressants, such as Atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin Zyban) increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine and can improve mood and concentration. Doctors prescribe these drugs to patients suffering from ADHD who also suffer from depression or anxiety. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are not often utilized in conjunction with stimulants due to a high risk for serious side effects when taken together.
A doctor can help you learn strategies to manage your ADHD, and other professionals can help you cope with problems caused by your symptoms. A psychiatrist or psychologist for instance can help you comprehend the reasons why you're struggling at school and work and teach you how to handle these challenges. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from support groups. Ask your doctor about online or local support groups.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants, the most studied ADHD medication, can boost concentration and reduce impulsivity for many people. They're not your only option. Some people react to non-stimulant medications. It's crucial to consult with your doctor to determine the most effective drug and dosage for your child or you.
Nonstimulant drugs work by boosting and balancing brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They typically take longer to begin working than stimulants, but they can aid those with hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are often prescribed along with stimulant medications to improve their effectiveness and minimize side effects.
Wellbutrin is also referred to as bupropion and Effexor (venlafaxine) are two antidepressants that are frequently prescribed for ADHD. Both of these drugs increase the brain chemical norepinephrine and enhance the ability to focus. They are less addictive than stimulants and don't have the same potential for abuse. Your doctor might prescribe Strattera or atomoxetine to treat ADHD. Atomoxetine is FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults. It targets a distinct neurotransmitter.
Another option is guanfacine, or Intuniv. This blood pressure medication has a slight relaxing effect and can help improve concentration, however it's not as effective at reducing hyperactivity or impulsivity like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate.
Remember that each individual's biochemistry is distinct, and so are the medicines they use. The first medicine you or your children try might not be effective and the one that does work for you or your child may trigger unpleasant adverse side effects. Finding the right medication takes patience and experimentation.
3. Antidepressants
While stimulants are frequently prescribed to treat ADHD, they may not be the ideal choice for everyone. People who aren't able to handle side effects or find the medication doesn't work for them may be able to benefit from antidepressants that can aid in reducing anxiety and other mood disorders.
Bupropion (also called Wellbutrin, Zyban) is an antidepressant that has been proven effective in treating ADHD adults. It targets two neurotransmitters within the brain: norepinephrine and dopamine. It can also be used to treat depression and anxiety. It is recommended by your doctor when you have ADHD symptoms are mild to moderate, or you have a risk of consuming stimulants.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a prescription medication that increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to improve concentration, focus, and control 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 or amphetamines.
There are also prescriptions for clonidine, alprazolam or Guanfacine. These are all blood pressure medications that can reduce your heart rate and lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of your sympathetic nervous system. This is particularly helpful for those suffering from ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a second treatment option that some people with ADHD consider to be an effective tool to manage their symptoms. CBT provides strategies to alter your behavior and thinking. This type of treatment is usually performed by a professional. You could also consider diet and supplementation however, you must consult with your doctor prior to trying these strategies. In most cases, a combination between therapy and medication along that includes skills training is the most effective in treating ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medication
Many people with ADHD are diagnosed in childhood However, some are given the diagnosis as adults. webpage may be unable to manage their symptoms. This could affect their work performance as well as their social interactions. Adults suffering from ADHD might benefit from taking medication or psychotherapy as well as lifestyle adjustments to help them focus, feel calmer and manage their impulsive behavior.
Adults who suffer from high blood pressure may consider taking a medication prescribed to treat the problem. These are referred to 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 also aid with anxiety, depression and aggression-related feelings. Since years doctors have prescribed these medications "off-label" however, in the last few years the FDA has approved long-acting tablets for ADHD. They can provide symptom control for a period of 10 to 12 hours.
Another medication that is often prescribed for ADHD is bupropion, known 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 been shown to decrease insomnia, agitation and bipolar disorder in patients.
These non-stimulant ADHD medications have lower risks of addiction and abuse than stimulants but they're not for everyone. Certain adults must try various medications before settling on the one that is most effective for them. The medications aren't a cure, so the person must continue taking them to avoid the symptoms returning. Your GP will monitor your symptoms and the efficacy of the medication.
5. Other medication
The medications used to treat ADHD can improve a person’s ability to concentrate, control impulses, and complete tasks. They aren't a cure-all for all symptoms and can cause side effects. Some of these side effects could be mild, but others can be more serious. A lot of these medications can cause weight loss, problems with sleep and headaches. If the side effects are severe, a physician might increase or decrease the dose of a medication or try another one.
Other medications, such as viloxazine and atomoxetine, can be used to treat certain types of ADHD. These are in the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors which differ from stimulants because they do not impact dopamine, but increase norepinephrine. These medications are more effective at improving concentration than stimulants, however they don't cause hyperactivity. They can also decrease appetite or cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxide inhibitors are a second type of medication that have been proven to be effective for some people with ADHD. These antidepressants inhibit the breakdown of dopamine and brain chemicals. Examples include phenelzine and the tranylcypromine and venlafaxine. They are less likely than other antidepressants that can cause adverse effects like appetite suppression and insomnia.
Psychological counseling is also available for people with ADHD. CBT is also known as cognitive behavioral therapy. It involves working with a therapist to develop skills that can aid in managing ADHD. It can also be helpful for loved ones who are struggling with the challenges of living with someone who has ADHD. Support groups for people suffering from ADHD are available on the Internet and in their local communities. They can provide strategies for coping.