The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
ADHD in adults is treated by the use of medication and education as well as skill training. Medication helps to increase focus, concentration and decrease impulsive behavior.
Stimulants increase levels of certain brain chemicals. Dopamine and norepinephrine are just two of them. They are controlled substances. They should not be used by those suffering from glaucoma or arteriosclerosis.
Stimulants
The most common ADHD medication for adults is a type of drug known as psychostimulant. adhd treatment medication helps by increasing certain chemical, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. This can improve attention and control impulses. The majority of doctors suggest stimulants as the first method of treatment. However, they might not be right for everyone, as they may have some serious negative side effects, including problems sleeping or jitters.
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed stimulant medicine for children and adults. It's available as tablets that release immediately (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets which are taken once in the morning and released throughout the day. Methylphenidate may cause a slight increase in heartbeat. This can be controlled by taking a lower dose antidepressant called bupropion, also called Wellbutrin.
Atomoxetine also referred to as Strattera is a different stimulant medication that can be employed to treat ADHD. It increases the amount of a chemical in the brain called norepinephrine which passes messages between nerve cells. This helps to focus the mind and decrease the tendency to be impulsive. It's also given to people with anxiety disorders that are co-existing with ADHD symptoms.
It's important to remember that medications can't cure ADHD but they can help manage it. It may take time to determine the appropriate dose and medication to control your symptoms and minimize adverse effects. Your doctor may try different doses and medications to find the one that works best for you.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants don't work for you or have negative side effects, your doctor may prescribe nonstimulant medications to help you manage your ADHD. Nonstimulant drugs include those that were developed specifically to treat ADHD and ones that lower blood pressure. These medications can be prescribed by doctors as a complement to stimulants, or they can be prescribed alone.
Medications in this group include guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay). These drugs belong to a class of drugs called alpha-2 agonists. They slow down the nervous system by blocking receptors. These medications are beneficial for those with ADHD who suffer from tics that are rapid repeated movements or sounds that resemble eye blinking or throat clearing. Clonidine or Guanfacine can be used to treat depression and anxiety for adults with ADHD.
These medications can cause headaches, stomach upset or an increased heart rate. Some adults, particularly those who suffer from cardiovascular problems are likely to be worried about the increased heart rate. These medications can also cause a decrease in appetite. They may also cause slowing growth in children, but it doesn't impact the final height.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions you have about the medication. You can always ask your physician to change the dose or switch medications if necessary. Inform your doctor if suffer from any other health issues, as some medications may interact with them. If you have chronic illnesses like asthma or high blood pressure, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.