The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
ADHD in adults is treated using the use of medication, education, and skills training. Medication helps focus, concentration and decreases impulse-driven behavior.
types of adhd medication of stimulants increase the levels of certain brain chemicals. types of adhd medication include norepinephrine and dopamine. They are controlled substances. They should not be taken by people with glaucoma, or arteriosclerosis.
Stimulants
The most commonly used ADHD medication for adults is a drug called a stimulant. It helps by increasing certain chemical, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. This improves attention and control impulses. The majority of doctors recommend stimulants as the first course of treatment. They may not be appropriate for everyone, as they can have serious side effects like jitters or trouble sleeping.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug that is prescribed to children and adults is the most commonly prescribed. It's available as immediate-release tablets (small doses that are taken between 2 and 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets which are taken once in the morning with the dose being released throughout the day. Methylphenidate can cause a small increase in heart rate, which can be managed by taking a low dose of an antidepressant drug called bupropion (Wellbutrin) along with it.
Atomoxetine also referred to as Strattera, is another stimulant medication that can be employed to treat ADHD. It boosts the amount of norepinephrine in the brain which is a chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells. This can help to focus the mind and decrease the impulsivity. It is often prescribed to those with ADHD symptoms or anxiety disorders.
It is important to remember that medications don't cure ADHD and only help manage it. It may take some time to determine the best dosage and medication to manage your symptoms with the least adverse side negative effects. Your doctor may suggest a few different dosages and medications to see which one is the most effective for you.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants aren't working for you or cause negative side effects, your physician might prescribe nonstimulant drugs to help manage your ADHD. Nonstimulant drugs include those that were developed specifically to treat ADHD as well as ones that lower blood pressure. These medications can be prescribed by doctors as a supplement to stimulants, or can be prescribed as a stand-alone medication.
The medicines in this category include the guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay). These are part of the class of drugs known as alpha-2 agonists. These drugs slow down the nervous system by blocking receptors. These medications can be helpful for those with ADHD who suffer from tics which are sudden repeated motions or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing. Clonidine and Guanfacine can be used to treat depression and anxiety, both of which are often found together with ADHD in adults.
Side effects of these medications can include stomach upsets headaches, stomach upsets or an increase in heart rate. Certain adults, especially those who have cardiovascular issues are likely to be concerned about the increased heart rate. These medications can also cause an appetite reduction. These medicines can also slow growth in children. This isn't a problem for the final height.
Discuss with your doctor any concerns or questions you have regarding the medication. You can always ask your doctor to alter the dosage or switch medications if needed. Inform your doctor if suffer from any other health issues or medical conditions, as certain medications could interact with them. If you have a chronic illness like asthma or high blood pressure your doctor may need to alter the dosage of your medication.