5 Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults Lessons From Professionals
The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults with ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants. They regulate the levels of two chemical signals in the brain which control attention.
The most effective treatment for adhd for adults is Strattera (atomoxetine). It is a pill or oral capsule that can be taken with or without food. It is effective for a majority of people. It also lasts longer than the more sedatives, like methylphenidate or amphetamine.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication, which means it is different from stimulant medications such as Adderall. It affects the brain chemical that regulates impulse control behavior and attention. Strattera is effective for most people, however, the results for each individual will differ. Whether the drug is effective for you is contingent on your symptoms and other factors, such as overall health and genetics.
Stimulants like Ritalin or Vyvanse release the amphetamine, methylphenidate into your body rapidly which increases your concentration and reduces hyperactivity. These drugs can cause side effects, such as insomnia, increased risk of seizure and heart problems, tics or abrupt movements and noises like the clearing of your throat. Stimulant drugs can also exacerbate the tics of adults suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Strattera is a great option for people with ADHD who want to stay clear of stimulant medication or cannot tolerate its side effects.
The most common dose of Strattera is 40 milligrams each day in the morning. The doctor may recommend lower doses or two divided doses. Do not exceed adult adhd medication per dose. Certain studies have shown that taking the medication in the morning can be more effective than taking it in the evening.
Strattera has the advantage of not being a controlled substance. This makes it safer than other ADHD medication. It doesn't work for everyone so your doctor might try other medications before suggesting Strattera. Tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your mood or behavior while taking Strattera. The FDA warns that the drug may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts particularly early in treatment and as the dose is changed.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree is a trademarked drug that doctors prescribe for adults suffering from ADHD. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. In a study sponsored by Supernus Pharmaceuticals the researchers found that the drug reduced ADHD symptoms in some adults after a six-week test. It also improved performance and reduced the amount of impulsivity among some patients.
The medication can also aid those suffering from bipolar disorder and depression. Before taking the medication, it's important to discuss your symptoms and your goals with your doctor. Your doctor may also suggest treatments that can be used with medication to improve the overall effectiveness of your treatment.
Adderall, Ritalin and other stimulant drugs are typically the first choice for those with ADHD. However they might not be suitable for all. For those who are not able to take stimulants or suffer from other adverse reactions can benefit from nonstimulant medications such as Qelbree and Strattera.
Nonstimulant medications in contrast to stimulants that could cause dependence and abuse are not affecting the brain regions that control attention or increase the levels of natural brain chemicals. They also can alleviate symptoms without the jitters and headaches and stomachaches, insomnia, and weight loss that are associated with stimulants.
Although scientists aren't certain how Qelbree functions in the brain they believe that it increases the quantity of norepinephrine in the brain and decreases dopamine. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate impulses and concentration.
Qelbree is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for adults and children 6 years and older. It is an oral capsule that is taken every day at a moderate dose that can be increased.
3. Bupropion
In addition to psychosocial therapy doctors may prescribe medications to treat ADHD. The most common first-line, or gold standard, medicines are stimulant drugs. They improve symptoms and help people be more productive at school, work or home. There are a variety of medications available, and some may need to try several before settling on the one that is right for them. Doctors can suggest specific brands of medications and offer regular check-ups to make sure they're working well.
Nonstimulant medicines can also be prescribed by doctors. These drugs are less dangerous for those with heart problems and don't cause stimulant effects. They can reduce impulsivity, increase focus and concentration.
Bupropion, also known as Wellbutrin is an antidepressant, which is also used to treat ADHD. It increases the levels of dopamine which is a chemical messenger and norepinephrine. This helps to calm people and improves impulse control. Doctors can give it as an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. The tablet that is immediate-release works quicker. The extended-release tablet is slower and lasts longer.
Tell your doctor if you have ever taken any other medications such as over-the-counter supplements and medications. Certain medications, such as Guanfacine and clonidine, may interact with the medication.
If you are suffering from a comorbidity, your physician may recommend other treatment options such as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) or an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Both were designed to treat anxiety and depression. They also help aid in reducing ADHD by cutting down on impulsivity, enhancing the quality of life and attention, and reducing the amount of impulsivity.
GPs may also refer patients for psychotherapy, like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). CBT is a form of therapy that involves talking that has been proven to aid people with ADHD. It teaches people with ADHD new ways of thinking and acting. It can also improve relationships and family lives.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a drug that works in a completely different manner than stimulants. It decreases the activity of certain brain areas to control impulsive behaviour. It is available as an immediate-release tablet guanfacine (Tenex), or extended-release tablets under the brand name Intuniv. It may take several weeks before the full effects of the medication are evident. Doctors typically start patients on a low dosage and increase it gradually.
It isn't clear what the effects of guanfacine on ADHD but it may be able to reduce the levels of norepinephrine in specific brain regions that regulate impulsivity. It is also thought to lower blood pressure. In a study lasting eight weeks, guanfacine reduced ADHD symptoms when compared to placebo. The improvement was not as dramatic as those seen by stimulants, however.
This medication is usually only prescribed for ADHD when stimulants like amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are not tolerated or do not produce adequate results. The medication is usually prescribed for children between the ages 6-17 or when a medical condition renders stimulants unsafe.
Stimulants balance and increase levels of neurotransmitters in your brain, such as norepinephrine and dopamine. They can improve concentration, focus, and impulsiveness. Nonstimulant drugs, such as bupropion and atomoxetine reduce the brain's capacity to absorb these neurotransmitters. They can be used in conjunction with behavioral therapy as a part of a complete treatment plan.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain regions of the brain, increases concentration, improves impulsiveness and focus, and can also be prescribed to teenagers and adults in the event that methylphenidate treatment have not resulted in improvement of symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine is a first-choice medication for children over 5 with ADHD, but it is also available to adults and teenagers whose symptoms do not improve after at least six weeks of treatment methylphenidate or other stimulants.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine is part of a category of medications called alpha-adrenergic agonists. These drugs increase blood flow by relaxing blood arteries. Clonidine can also help reduce diarrhea.
At first it was FDA approved it to treat high blood tension (hypertension). It is now used to treat many conditions and symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Clonidine can also be effective for those suffering from irritable Bowel Syndrome.
It is available in the form of a patch or tablet and may be prescribed by your doctor. It is frequently employed in combination with other ADHD medications. The medication must be taken according to the directions or it will not work. Clonidine comes in two forms: the brand-name Kapvay and the generic version of clonidine (KapvayXR).
Adults should take 0.1 mg of the medication orally prior to the time of bed. The dosage can be increased in increments of 0.1 mg at weekly intervals until your physician determines the dosage that is the highest daily amount.
Clonidine has been found to be effective in improving the quality of sleep which is a common side effect of stimulant drugs. Clonidine also helps in reducing stimulant side effects such as aggression, jitteriness and tics. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine suggests that behavioral strategies are tested prior to prescribing medication for insomnia.
Clonidine is recognized to interact with a variety of other medications, including sedatives and antipsychotics. It can also increase the risk of seizure in certain individuals. Clonidine can also raise your heart rate and blood pressure Therefore, you should inform your doctor know about any medication you're taking or if there is any medical background. It is also essential to reduce the dose after stopping clonidine, since sudden withdrawal could cause high blood pressure, headaches and chest tightness and nervousness among other signs.