The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
A combination of education, medication and skills training is the most common treatment for ADHD for adults. The use of medication can improve focus, concentration and reduce impulsive behavior.
The effects of stimulants increase the levels of certain brain chemicals. Dopamine and norepinephrine comprise two of them. They are controlled substances. They should not be taken by people with glaucoma, or arteriosclerosis.
Stimulants
The most popular ADHD treatment for adults is a kind of drug known as psychostimulant. It increases certain chemicals in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. This can improve the ability to focus and control impulses. The stimulants are the first option most doctors recommend. However, they might not be suitable for everyone, as they may have some serious adverse effects, like trouble sleeping or jitters.
Methylphenidate, a stimulant medication that is prescribed to children and adults, is the most common. It's available as tablets that release immediately (small doses that are taken between 2 and 3 times per day) and modified-release tablets which are taken once in the morning, with the dose released throughout the day. Methylphenidate could cause a slight increase in heartbeat. This is controlled by taking a lower dose antidepressant called bupropion. It's also called Wellbutrin.
Atomoxetine also referred to as Strattera, is another stimulant medication that can be used to treat ADHD. It increases the level of norepinephrine within the brain, a chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells. This can help to focus the mind and lessen the frequency of impulses. It's also often given to those suffering from anxiety disorders who have coexisting ADHD symptoms.
adhd medication and pregnancy 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 that will manage your symptoms with the least adverse negative effects. Your doctor might suggest different dosages and medications to determine the one that is most effective for you.
Non-stimulants
If stimulants don't work well for you or have negative adverse effects, your doctor may prescribe nonstimulant medications to help manage your ADHD. Nonstimulant drugs include those that were developed specifically for treating ADHD as well as ones that lower blood pressure. Doctors can add these to stimulants or use them as a stand-alone medication.
Medications in this group include Guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay). These medications belong to a class of drugs called alpha-2 agonists, which slow down the nervous system by blocking receptors. These drugs are beneficial for people with tics. Tics are sudden, repetitive movements, or sounds like eye blinking or a throat clearing. Guanfacine or clonidine may also be used to treat anxiety and depression in adults suffering from ADHD.
These medications can cause stomach upset, headaches, or an increased pulse rate. The higher heart rate can be a problem for some adults, especially those with heart problems. These medications can also result in an appetite reduction. These medications can also slow the growth in children. This does not affect the final height.
Speak to your doctor If you have any questions or concerns about the medication. You can always ask your doctor to alter the dose or switch medications if necessary. It's also important to tell your doctor about any other health conditions you suffer from, as the medication could interact with some of them. If you have a chronic condition like asthma or high blood pressure, your doctor may require adjusting the dosage of your other medications.