How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or amphetamine are effective in boosting and balancing the levels of brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them in the form of pills, liquids or patches.
Healthcare professionals also take medications known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. These are usually used "off-label" to treat this condition as they're FDA-approved for treating other conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are among the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. They increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which help to improve concentration and control of impulses. Doctors usually prescribe stimulants to adults suffering from ADHD but they might also use them to treat other related disorders such as depression and anxiety. These medications are controlled substances because they can cause dependence. They should be used under the supervision of a medical professional. The use of stimulants can help those with ADHD manage their symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the disorder. They can also cause side effects such as heart palpitations and difficulty sleeping.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs that doctors can prescribe to adults suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant medications are classified into two major categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates have a lower risk of adverse effects, including addiction and apathy, than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in shorter-acting and longer-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last about 3-4 hours, while intermediate and long-acting medications take between 6-8 and 16 hours to achieve their maximum effect. Long-acting medications may be suggested by doctors for patients who have difficulties remembering to take their medication on a regular basis.
Some adults may not be responsive to stimulants, and healthcare professionals may test non-stimulant medications first. The FDA has approved four drugs that are nonstimulant to adults suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine), and the guanfacine. These medications have less of an impact on the impulsive behavior than stimulants, however they can be very effective in treating specific essential ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medications can be combined with other types of treatments, including environmental and behavior therapy. Therapists, for instance instruct parents and families how to help their children manage ADHD symptoms and offer them skills training.
The most effective ADHD medication for adults is typically the one that controls the symptoms with the most effectiveness and causes fewer side negative effects. Finding the right medication, dosage and timing to take it could be a trial-and-error process. Patients with ADHD must also think about lifestyle changes to maximize their success, such as getting enough rest and avoiding caffeine.
Symptoms of ADHD tend to change over the course of the course of a person's life. Therefore, adults with ADHD must see their physician regularly to check for changes and monitoring of their medications. Doctors should schedule appointments on a monthly basis with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms and then visit them every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. non prescription adhd medication of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults with untreated ADHD seek medical attention for the disorder. The use of medications can greatly improve the lives of adults who suffer from the condition and can lead to better relationships, employment and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that people with ADHD do not stop taking their medication prior to talking to a doctor about the potential risks and benefits. It can be a challenging decision and the AAP suggests a thorough assessment by an experienced pediatrician or mental health professional.