The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
ADHD in adults is treated with an array of medications and education as well as skill training. The use of medication can improve focus, concentration and reduce impulsive behaviour.
Stimulants boost levels of certain brain chemicals. These include dopamine and norepinephrine. They are controlled substances. Patients with glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis should not take them.
Stimulants
The most commonly used ADHD medication for adults is a kind of drug known as a psychostimulant. It helps by increasing certain chemical like dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. This can improve attention and control impulses. Stimulants are the first treatment most doctors recommend. They may not be suitable for everyone, since they can trigger serious side effects such as insomnia or jitters.
Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medicine for children and adults. source for this article is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets that are taken in the morning and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate can cause a slight increase in heartbeat. This is controlled by taking a lower dose antidepressant called bupropion. It's also known as Wellbutrin.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a different stimulant medicine that can be used to treat ADHD. It increases the levels of norepinephrine within the brain, a chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells. This can help focus the mind and decrease impulsivity. It's also often given to those suffering from anxiety disorders that have coexisting ADHD symptoms.
It's important to remember that medications don't cure ADHD and only help to manage it. It can take a while to find the right dosage and medication to manage your symptoms while minimizing side negative effects. Your doctor might try a few different dosages and medications to see what works best for you.
Non-stimulants
If stimulants don't work for you or cause side negative effects, your physician may prescribe nonstimulant medication to manage your ADHD. Nonstimulant medicines include those created specifically for treating ADHD as well as those that reduce blood pressure. These medications are prescribed by doctors as a supplement to stimulants, or they can be prescribed on their own.
Medications in this group include guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay). These are part of a class of drugs called alpha-2 agonists. These drugs slow down the nervous system by blocking receptors. These drugs can be beneficial for those with ADHD who have tics, which are sudden repeated motions or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. Clonidine and Guanfacine can be used to decrease depression and anxiety, which are frequently associated with ADHD in adults.
These medications can cause headaches, stomach upset or an increased pulse rate. The increased heart rate can be a problem for some adults, particularly those suffering from heart problems. These medicines can also lead to an appetite reduction. They can also trigger an increase in growth rate in children, which does not affect the final height.
Talk to your doctor for any concerns or questions about the medication. If necessary you are able to request your doctor to switch medications or alter the dosage. Inform your doctor if have any other health problems or medical conditions, as certain medications could interact with them. If you suffer from a chronic illness, such as asthma or high blood pressure Your doctor may have to alter your dosage.