How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Drugs that stimulate the brain such as methylphenidate or amphetamine can boost brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them as liquids, pills or patches.
Healthcare professionals also use drugs called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists to treat ADHD. They are typically used "off-label" for this purpose because they're FDA-approved for use to treat other ailments.
Stimulants
The stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. They increase the levels brain chemicals, norepinephrine and d-opamine which aid in improving focus and control of impulses. Adults with ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants, however they are also employed to treat other disorders like anxiety and depression. These medications are categorized as controlled substances because they can cause dependence and therefore must be administered under a physician's supervision. Stimulants can help people with ADHD manage their symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the condition. They can also trigger side effects such as heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are dozens of different brands of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe for people suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs fall into two main categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of adverse effects, including addiction and apathy, than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in shorter-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants can be effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Long-acting and intermediate medications take between 6 and 16 hours to achieve their maximum effect. Long-acting medications may be suggested by medical professionals for patients who have trouble remembering to take their medication on a regular schedule.
Healthcare professionals may first try nonstimulant medication if some adults do not respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four drugs that are nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine (clonidine) and guanfacine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants when it comes to treating impulsive behavior, but are extremely helpful in treating specific fundamental ADHD symptoms.
The use of medication can be combined with other forms of treatment, such as environmental and behavioral therapy to increase their effectiveness. For adhd no medication , therapists could teach parents and families strategies to support their children with ADHD and also provide them with skills training to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD medication for adults is usually the one that manages the symptoms with the most effectiveness and causes fewer side effects. It's an exercise of trial and error to determine the best dosage, drug, and time of day to take it to get the best results. Patients with ADHD must also think about changes in their lifestyle to ensure success, including getting enough sleep and staying away from caffeine.
Adults suffering from ADHD may experience changes in their symptoms as time passes. Therefore, they should visit their doctor regularly to review and modify their medication. Doctors should schedule monthly appointments with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing symptoms that are not controlled and then every 3 to 6 months until symptoms and functioning is controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all adults with untreated ADHD seek medical attention for the disorder. Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication that improves their lives and can lead to better health relationships, jobs, and relationships. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking with a physician about the potential risks and benefits of stopping or starting the medication. It can be a challenging decision, and the AAP recommends a thorough evaluation by a trained pediatrician or mental health professional.