How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine are effective in boosting and balancing brain chemicals. Doctors often prescribe them as pills, liquid or patches.
ADHD can also be treated by healthcare professionals using drugs called alpha-2 agonists and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. These are usually used "off-label" for this purpose because they're FDA-approved for use for treating other conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. They boost the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and d-opamine, which helps to improve focus and control of impulses. Doctors usually prescribe stimulants to adults suffering from ADHD, but they may also use them to treat other related disorders like anxiety and depression. These medications are controlled substances because they can cause dependence. They should be used under the supervision of a physician. adhd medication ritalin work quickly to help people suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms, but they do not solve the problem and can trigger side effects such as heart palpitations or trouble sleeping.
There are a variety of brands of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe for adults suffering from ADHD. The majority of them fall into two categories: methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of side effects, including addiction, than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants can be effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medications take between 6 and 16 hours to reach their maximum effectiveness. Doctors may suggest long-acting medicines for people with difficulty remembering to take their medicine on a regular basis.
Some adults might not be able to respond to stimulants and healthcare professionals will most likely try nonstimulant medications first. The FDA has approved four nonstimulant medications for adults with ADHD: atomoxetine, viloxazine and guanfacine as well as clonidine. These medications are less effective than stimulants in treating an impulsive personality, but are extremely helpful in treating specific primary ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medications can be combined with other kinds of treatments, including behavior therapy and environmental restructuring. For instance, therapists could instruct parents and families on strategies to support their children with ADHD and give them skills training to manage their symptoms.
The best ADHD treatment for adults is the one that manages their symptoms most effectively and causes fewer side effects. It can be a process of trial and error to discover the right drug, dosage and time to take it to get the best results. People with ADHD must also think about lifestyle changes to maximize their results, such as getting enough sleep and staying away from caffeine.
Symptoms of ADHD tend to change throughout the course of a person's life. Therefore, adults with ADHD should see their doctor regularly to check for changes and monitoring of their medication. Doctors should schedule appointments on a monthly basis with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms and then every 3 to 6 months until symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek out medical care. Medications can significantly improve the lives of adults suffering from the condition and can lead to better relationships, employment, and health outcomes. The AAP suggests that people suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking with a physician regarding the risks and advantages of stopping or beginning the drug. The AAP warns that this can be a difficult process and recommends that an expert in mental health or pediatrician with experience in the field of ADHD perform an exhaustive assessment.