The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
ADHD in adults is treated with an array of medications and education as well as skill training. The use of medication can increase focus, concentration and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The effects of stimulants increase the levels of specific brain chemicals. These include norepinephrine and dopamine. They are controlled substances. They should not be used by those suffering from glaucoma or arteriosclerosis.
Stimulants
The most popular ADHD medication used by adults is a medication known as stimulant. It increases certain chemical levels in the brain, like norepinephrine and dopamine. This helps improve attention and control impulses. The majority of doctors suggest stimulants as the first course of treatment. They might not be suitable for everyone, as they can trigger serious side effects such as jitters or trouble sleeping.
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 in the morning with the dose being released throughout the day. Methylphenidate may cause a slight increase in heart rate, which can be controlled by taking a lower dose of an antidepressant medication called bupropion (Wellbutrin) along with it.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a different stimulant drug that can be used to treat ADHD. It increases the amount of a chemical that is present in the brain called norepinephrine, which transmits messages between nerve cells. This helps to focus the mind and decrease the tendency to be impulsive. It's also sometimes given to people with anxiety disorders that are co-existing with ADHD symptoms.
It is crucial to keep in mind that medication cannot cure ADHD and only help manage it. It may take a while to find the right dosage and medication to manage your symptoms while minimizing side effects. Your doctor may recommend a variety of dosages and medications to determine what works best for you.
Non-stimulants
If stimulants don't work for you or cause side effects, your doctor may prescribe nonstimulant drugs to treat your ADHD. There are many kinds of nonstimulant drugs, including those that were specifically designed to treat ADHD and those that help lower blood pressure. These medications are prescribed by doctors as a supplement to stimulants, or they could be prescribed as a stand-alone medication.
The medications in this class include Guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay). These are alpha-2 receptor blockers, which slow the nervous system down by blocking receptors. These medications are beneficial for people with ADHD who suffer from tics which are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or clearing of the throat. Clonidine and Guanfacine can be used to reduce depression and anxiety, both of which are often associated with ADHD in adults.
The side effects of these medications can include stomach upsets, headaches, or an increased heart rate. The higher heart rate can be a problem for some people, particularly those with heart problems. These medications can also trigger a decrease in appetite. They can also trigger a slowing of growth in children, which does not affect the final height.
Consult adhd without medication if you have any questions or concerns about the medication. If necessary you are able to ask your physician to switch medications or alter the dosage. It's also important to inform your doctor about any other health issues you have, since the medication could interact with them. If you have an illness that is chronic like asthma or high blood pressure Your doctor may have to alter the dosage of your medication.