How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or amphetamine help balance brain chemicals. Doctors often prescribe them as pills, liquid or patches.
ADHD can be treated by healthcare professionals using drugs called alpha-2 agonists and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. These drugs are often employed "off-label", since they are FDA-approved for other conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication for ADHD. They boost the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and d-opamine which help improve concentration and control of your impulses. Adults with ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants, but they can also be used to treat other conditions like depression and anxiety. These medications are controlled substances because they can become habit-forming. They must be taken under the supervision of a medical professional. Stimulants can help people with ADHD manage their symptoms quickly however they don't solve the problem. They can also trigger adverse effects like heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are many different stimulant drugs that doctors are able to prescribe to adults with ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs are classified into two 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 are effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours, whereas intermediate and long-acting drugs require between 6 and 16 hours to reach their maximum effects. Doctors may suggest long-acting medicines for people with difficulty remembering to take their medication on a regular basis.
Some adults may not be able to respond to stimulants and healthcare professionals may test non-stimulant medications first. The FDA has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD such as atomoxetine and guanfacine, viloxazine, and clonidine. These drugs have less impact on impulsive behavior than stimulants, yet they can be extremely effective in treating certain fundamental ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medication can be combined with other kinds of treatments, like environmental and behavior therapy. For instance, therapists could provide parents and families with strategies to help their children with ADHD and give them the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
The best ADHD medication is one that reduces side effects and controls symptoms most efficiently. Finding the appropriate dosage, medication and time to take it can be a process of trial and error. People suffering from ADHD should also consider lifestyle changes to increase their results, such as getting enough sleep and avoiding caffeine.
Adults suffering from ADHD may notice changes in their symptoms as time passes. They should therefore visit their doctor regularly to monitor and adjust their medication. Ideally, doctors will make appointments every month with patients who are diagnosed with ADHD or symptoms that are not controlled, and thereafter every three months until their symptoms and functioning are under control. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all adults with untreated ADHD seek medical treatment for the disorder. Adults with ADHD can benefit from medications that enhance their lives and can lead to better health, relationships, and jobs. The AAP suggests that people suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication without speaking with a physician about the potential risks and benefits of stopping or starting the drug. medication for adhd can be a challenging decision and the AAP suggests a thorough assessment by an experienced psychiatrist or pediatrician.