The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
ADHD in adults is treated by an array of medications education, as well as skills training. Medication improves concentration, focus and reduces impulsive behavior.
Stimulants increase levels of certain brain chemicals. Dopamine and norepinephrine are two of them. They are controlled substances. Patients with glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis should not use them.
Stimulants
The most popular ADHD medication for adults is a type of drug known as a psychostimulant. It boosts certain chemicals in the brain, like norepinephrine and dopamine. non stimulant adhd medication can improve the ability to focus and control impulses. The majority of doctors recommend stimulants as the initial method of treatment. However, they may not be suitable for everyone since they could cause serious side effects, such as problems sleeping or jitters.
Methylphenidate, a stimulant medication that is prescribed to adults and children is the most commonly prescribed. It's available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two to three times per day) and modified-release tablets which are taken once in the morning, with the dose released throughout the day. Methylphenidate may cause a slight increase in heart rate, which can be controlled by taking a low dose of an antidepressant drug known as bupropion (Wellbutrin) along with it.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a different stimulant medication that can be used to treat ADHD. It boosts the amount of norepinephrine inside the brain which is a chemical responsible for transmitting messages between nerve cells. This helps to focus the mind and reduce the impulsivity. Sometimes, it's prescribed to people who have ADHD symptoms and anxiety disorders.
It is important to keep in mind that medications can't cure ADHD but they can help manage it. It could take time to determine the best medication and dose to control your symptoms while minimizing side negative effects. Your doctor may suggest a few different medications and doses to see what works best for you.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants don't work for you or cause adverse negative effects, your physician may prescribe nonstimulant medications to control your ADHD. Nonstimulant drugs include those that were developed specifically to treat ADHD as well as those that reduce blood pressure. These medications are prescribed by doctors as a complement to stimulants, or can be prescribed as a stand-alone medication.
Medications in this group include the guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay). These drugs belong to the class of drugs known as alpha-2 agonists. They slow down the nervous system by blocking receptors. These medications are helpful for people with tics. Tics are sudden, repetitive movements, or sounds such as eye blinking or a throat clearing. Guanfacine and clonidine can be used to treat depression and anxiety for adults with ADHD.
Side effects of these medications might include stomach upset headaches, stomach upset and an increased heart rate. Certain adults, especially those who suffer from cardiovascular problems, may be concerned about the increase in heart rate. These medicines can also lead to a reduction in appetite. These medications can also slow down growth in children. This does not affect the final height.
Speak to your doctor If you have any concerns or questions about the medication. If needed you're able to ask your doctor to switch medications or alter the dosage. It is also essential to inform your doctor about any other health conditions you have, as the medication may interfere with certain of them. If you suffer from an ongoing health issue like asthma or high blood pressure, your doctor might have to alter the dosage of other medications.