How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine can boost brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them as pills, liquids or patches.
Healthcare professionals also use drugs known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. These medications are usually used "off-label", since they are FDA-approved for a variety of conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication for ADHD. They increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which help to improve focus and control impulses. Doctors typically prescribe stimulants for adults with ADHD but they might also prescribe them to treat related conditions such as depression and anxiety. These are controlled substances, since they can be habit-forming. They must be taken under the supervision of a physician. These stimulants can help people suffering from ADHD control their symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the disorder. They can also cause negative side effects, such as heart palpitations, insomnia and sleep disturbances.
There are many stimulant drugs that doctors can prescribe to adults with ADHD. The majority of them fall into two categories: methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of side effects, including addiction and apathy, than amphetamines. Stimulants come in short-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants are effective within 30 minutes and last about 3-4 hours, while intermediate and long-acting drugs take 6-8 or 16 hours to reach their maximum effectiveness. Doctors may suggest long-acting medicines for those who have difficulty remembering to take their medication regularly.
Healthcare professionals are likely to start with nonstimulant medications in the event that some patients do not respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four nonstimulant medications for adults with ADHD including atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine, guanfacine, and clonidine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants in treating an impulsive personality, but can be extremely beneficial in treating specific primary ADHD symptoms.
adhd treatment medication may be paired with other forms of treatment, such as environmental therapy and behavioral therapy to increase their effectiveness. Therapists can, for instance help parents and families learn how to help their children manage ADHD symptoms and offer them skills training.
The best ADHD medication for adults is usually the one that can control their symptoms most effectively and causes fewer side negative effects. Finding the right medication, dosage and timing to take it could be a process of trial and error. People suffering from ADHD should also consider changes in their lifestyle to ensure success, including getting enough rest and avoiding caffeine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may notice changes in their symptoms over time. They should therefore see their doctor regularly to review and adjust their medication. The ideal scenario is for doctors to schedule monthly appointments with patients with new diagnoses of ADHD or uncontrolled symptoms, and after that, every 3 to 6 months until their symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical care for the disorder. Medications can significantly enhance the lives of those with the condition and can lead to better relationships, jobs, and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking to a doctor about the potential risks and benefits of stopping or starting the medication. The AAP advises that this can be a difficult choice and recommends that a mental health professional or pediatrician with expertise in the area of ADHD conduct a thorough examination.