How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine work by boosting and balancing levels of brain chemicals. Doctors 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 medications are typically used "off-label", since they are FDA-approved for a variety of conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are among the most common ADHD medication prescribed. They increase levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which help to improve focus and control impulses. Doctors typically prescribe stimulants to adults suffering from ADHD however, they can also use them to treat conditions related to it such as depression and anxiety. These medications are controlled substances, since they can be habit-forming. They should be used under the supervision of a physician. These stimulants are effective in helping people suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms but they do not cure the disorder and they may cause side effects, such as heart palpitations or trouble sleeping.
There are dozens of different kinds of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe to adults with ADHD. They are generally classified into two categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less likely cause adverse effects and addiction than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting varieties. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last about 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medicines require between 6 and 16 hours to achieve their maximum effect. adhd medications for adults -acting drugs may be recommended by doctors for patients who have difficulty remembering to take their medication on a consistent basis.
Healthcare professionals are likely to first try nonstimulant medication in the event that some patients do not respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four nonstimulant drugs for adults with ADHD including atomoxetine (guanfacine), guanfacine, viloxazine, and Clonidine. These medications are less effective than stimulants in treating impulsive behavior, but can be very helpful for treating some of the primary ADHD symptoms.
Medications may be paired with other forms of treatment like environmental and behavioral therapy, to optimize their effectiveness. For instance, therapists can provide parents and families with strategies to assist their children with ADHD and provide them with the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD medication for adults is usually the one that can control the symptoms with the most effectiveness and causes fewer side effects. Finding the right medication, dosage and timing to take it can be a trial-and-error procedure. To get the most out of their treatment those suffering from ADHD should also consider making lifestyle changes. For instance sleeping enough and abstaining from caffeine are two of the most crucial.
Adults with ADHD might have changes in their symptoms as time passes. They should therefore visit their doctor regularly to monitor and adjust their medication. adhd and medication 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 managed. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that people suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical attention. Medications can significantly improve the lives of people with the condition, leading to better relationships, employment and health outcomes. The AAP advises that people with ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking with a physician regarding the risks and benefits of stopping or resuming the drug. This is a difficult decision and the AAP suggests a thorough assessment by a trained psychiatrist or a pediatrician.