The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Most ADHD medications are classified into two categories: stimulants and non-stimulants. stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines stimulate brain areas that control attention and behavior.
Non-stimulants, like atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as Guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay) perform slower than stimulants but can help increase focus, concentration and impulsivity. They also seem to reduce anxiety, which is frequently comorbid with ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
The use of stimulants is usually the first choice of doctors for treating ADHD however they're not suitable for everyone and may cause bad side effects in some people. Nonstimulant medications take longer to work, however, they can help improve attention or impulsiveness in certain adults. A combination of medication and behavioral therapy is usually the best approach to treat ADHD.
non stimulant adhd medication are around 70%-80% effective for treating ADHD in adults. Medications are only part of the treatment. Many people also find that lifestyle changes and training help. Inform your doctor if encounter any side effects or problems with the medication. This allows them to adjust the dosage as required.
There are two types of stimulant drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates is the most well-known medication for ADD/ADHD. They're available in various strengths and forms, like chewable tablets, liquid or capsules. Most adults and children are safe to take them. However, those with glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis or heart disease-related symptoms, or who have recently taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs), should not.
Amphetamines are similar like methylphenidates, but are more potent. They are less likely to cause major adverse effects and are more efficient in treating ADHD symptoms than methylphenidates. They're more likely than methylphenidates cause addiction and abuse. This is the reason they are classified as Schedule I drugs.
Both kinds of stimulants may cause some negative side effects, like stomach upsets, headaches insomnia, jitters and a loss of appetite. The majority of these side effects are minor and last only several weeks.
Nonstimulant medications
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are more difficult to use than stimulants. They may not be as efficient, but they can help improve inattention and irritability. They work by boosting the amount of brain chemicals that control emotions and focusing the attention. There are many kinds of these medicines and some doctors might prescribe them alongside a stimulant to maximize the benefits of both treatments.
Strattera (atomoxetine), an SNRI which increases the levels of norepinephrine within the brain to reduce the tendency to be impulsive and inattention. It took a long time for it to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD however, it's been shown to be helpful for adults. Guanfacine is also referred to as Intuniv is a blood pressure medicine that works by increasing norepinephrine levels and decreasing the amount of impulsivity. It takes a bit longer to begin working than amphetamines and methylphenidate and it has more of a "no-fly" impact on the brain. Other medications that increase norepinephrine levels include Wellbutrin/Zyban (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). These aren't endorsed by the FDA to treat ADHD, but they can aid some people suffering from this disorder. Antidepressants can also be used to treat ADHD, as they can increase the levels of brain chemicals that impact the way we behave and mood.