Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults can be treated using a variety of drugs to treat ADHD. There are stimulants, nonstimulants and blood pressure medication.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed treatment for ADHD. They are effective and safe. If used as directed, they also have a low risk of abuse.
Long-acting stimulants are the most popular. These are medicines like Xelstrym (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine patch) or Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are typically a doctor's first choice of medication to treat ADHD. They boost the levels of certain brain chemicals and increase concentration, focus, and control of impulses. Doctors most commonly prescribe medications that contain methylphenidate or amphetamine. They're available in immediate-release and long-acting versions. The longer-acting drugs can help to avoid a "crash" in energy that could occur when stimulants with short-acting effects wear off. The type of medication is determined by their symptoms, doctor's preferences and other health issues. It is normal to test different medications before finding one that works for you.
A physician will also take into consideration the family history of a patient as well as medical history. A doctor can prescribe nonstimulant medication if a patient has an history of substance abuse or heart disease. They don't have the same risk of misuse as stimulants, however they are more difficult to use and don't reduce impulsiveness as effectively.
medication for adhd can interact with other medications, so you should tell your doctor if you're taking any other medications. Antidepressants such as atomoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine and boost mood and concentration. Doctors may prescribe them to treat people suffering from ADHD, especially in the case of anxiety or depression. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors like phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are not often used in combination with stimulants because they have the potential for serious side effects when used together.
A doctor can guide you through coping strategies to manage your ADHD, and other professionals can help you cope with problems caused by your symptoms. For instance psychiatrists or psychologists can help you understand the reasons you struggle at school and work and teach you how to overcome those issues. Adults who suffer from ADHD may also benefit from support groups. Discuss with your doctor about support groups in your community or online.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulants are the most well-studied ADHD drugs that can boost concentration and rein in the tendency to be impulsive for many. But they're not the only option. Certain people might respond to nonstimulant medications. It's important to work closely with your doctor to determine the most effective drug and dosage for your child or you.
Nonstimulant medicines work by increasing and balancing brain chemical called neurotransmitters. They generally take longer to begin working than stimulants, however they can improve symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity for some people. They are usually prescribed along with stimulant medications in order to increase their effectiveness and minimize unwanted side negative effects.
Two popular antidepressants are commonly 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 enhance the quality of attention. They are also less addictive than stimulants and don't carry as much abuse potential. Your doctor may prescribe Strattera or atomoxetine for treating ADHD. Atomoxetine targets a different neurotransmitter in the brain. It's the first nonstimulant drug to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD in adults.
Another option is guanfacine or Intuniv. This blood pressure medicine can have a mild relaxing effect and can improve concentration. However, it's not as effective as methylphenidate (or lisdexamfetamine) in reducing hyperactivity.
It is important to keep in mind that just as every person has a unique biochemistry, so too do the medications they are taking. The first drug you or your children test 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 perseverance.
3. Antidepressants
Although stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD but they may not be the ideal choice for all. Patients who have difficulty absorbing adverse effects or feel that the medication doesn't work well 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 shown to be effective in treating ADHD adults. It targets two neurotransmitters within the brain, namely dopamine and norepinephrine. It can also help treat depression and anxiety. The doctor might prescribe it in the event that you have ADHD symptoms are mild to moderate or if you have a chance of using stimulants.
Strattera (atomoxetine), a prescription medication with a long-acting effect, increases the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This can improve concentration and focus and reduce impulse-driven behaviors. It was the FDA's very first non-stimulant approved medication for treating adult ADHD. It is generally believed 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 lower your heart rate and lower blood pressure by reducing the activity of your sympathetic nervous system. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from coexisting ADHD and anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a second treatment option that some people with ADHD consider beneficial in managing their symptoms. CBT teaches strategies to change your thinking and behavior. This kind of treatment is usually done by an therapy. You may also consider supplements and diets however, make sure to consult with your doctor prior to trying these approaches. In most instances, combining therapies and medications along with skills training is the most effective approach to treat ADHD.
4. Blood pressure medication
Many people with ADHD get diagnosed in childhood However, some are given a diagnosis as adults. Adults may be unable to manage their symptoms. This can affect their work performance and their social interactions. However, psychotherapy, medication and lifestyle changes can assist those suffering from ADHD to concentrate, feel calmer and control their impulsive behaviors.
Adults who are experiencing high blood pressure might want to take a medication that is typically prescribed to treat the problem. These medicines are called alpha-2 agonists. They include the clonidine (Kapvay) and Guanfacine (Intuniv). They can have a positive impact on mood and can aid with concentration and impulse control.
These medications can also help with depression, anxiety and aggression-related feelings. Doctors have been prescribing them "off-label" for ADHD for years, but they are now available in long-acting tablets that have been FDA-approved for the condition. They can offer relief from symptoms for up to 12 hours.
Bupropion is a different medication that is prescribed for ADHD. It is also available 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 has been proven to reduce agitation, insomnia and bipolar disorder in patients.
These non-stimulant ADHD drugs have lower abuse and addiction risks than stimulants, however they aren't for everyone. Adults may need to test several different drugs before they discover the one that is effective for them. The medication is not a cure, so the patient must continue to take them to avoid the symptoms returning. Your GP will evaluate the effectiveness of your medication and your symptoms.
5. Other medicines
The medications used to manage ADHD can enhance a person's ability to concentrate, control impulses, and complete tasks. However, they're not a panacea for all symptoms and often cause side effects that need to be managed. Some of these side-effects can be mild, while others could be very serious. Many of these drugs can cause headaches, sleep problems and loss of appetite. If the side effects are severe, a doctor might increase or decrease the dosage of a medication or try another one.
Other medicines, such as viloxazine or atomoxetine are used to treat certain forms of ADHD. They are part of the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors, which differ from stimulants due to the fact that they do not impact dopamine but boost norepinephrine. These drugs are more effective in enhancing attention than stimulants, but they don't cause hyperactivity. They also can reduce appetite or cause insomnia.
Monoamine oxide inhibitors are a second class of medication that has been shown to be effective for certain 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 to cause side effects like appetite suppression or insomnia than other antidepressants.
Psychological counseling is also available for people with ADHD. It is often called cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT, and it involves working with a therapist who is trained to acquire skills that assist in managing ADHD symptoms. It can be beneficial for loved ones and family members who struggle to live with a person who suffers from ADHD. Support groups for those with ADHD are available on the Internet as well as in their communities. They can offer strategies for dealing with the disorder.