The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
ADHD in adults is treated with the use of medication and education as well as skill training. The medication helps improve concentration, focus and reduce impulsive behavior.
Stimulants boost levels of certain brain chemicals. Dopamine and norepinephrine comprise two of them. They are controlled substances. They should not be used by those suffering from glaucoma or arteriosclerosis.
Stimulants
The most common ADHD medication for adults is a kind of drug known as a psychostimulant. It increases certain chemicals in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. This can improve the ability to focus and control impulses. Stimulants are the first treatment most doctors recommend. They may not be appropriate for everyone, since they can cause serious side effects such as jitters or trouble sleeping.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant medicine that is prescribed to children and adults is the most popular. It's available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per 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 small dose of an antidepressant medication known as bupropion (Wellbutrin) along with it.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is a different stimulant medicine that can be used to treat ADHD. It increases the amount of a chemical in the brain called norepinephrine that transmits messages between nerve cells. This can help focus the mind and decrease impulsivity. It's also given to those suffering from anxiety disorders who have coexisting ADHD symptoms.
It is important to keep in mind that medications can't cure ADHD but they can help manage it. It can take a while to find the right medication and dose to control your symptoms with the fewest side consequences. Your doctor may recommend a variety of medications and doses to see what is most effective for you.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants aren't working for you or cause side effects, your doctor could prescribe nonstimulant medication to manage your ADHD. There are many kinds of nonstimulant drugs which include those specifically designed to treat ADHD and those that help lower blood pressure. adhd without medication are prescribed by doctors as a complement to stimulants, or they can be prescribed on their own.
This category includes guanfacine (Intuniv), and clonidine (Kapvay). These medications are alpha-2 receptor blockers, which slow the nervous system down by blocking receptors. These drugs can be beneficial for those with ADHD who exhibit tics which are rapid, repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. Guanfacine or clonidine may also be used to treat depression and anxiety in adults suffering from ADHD.
Side effects of these medications might include stomach upset headaches, stomach upset, or an increased heart rate. Certain adults, especially those with cardiovascular issues might be concerned about the increase in heart rate. These medications can also cause a decrease in appetite. These medications can also slow growth in children. This doesn't affect the final height.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns or questions you have regarding the medication. If necessary you are able to ask your physician to switch medications or change the dosage. Inform your doctor if suffer from any other health issues, as some medications may interact with them. If you suffer from an ongoing condition like asthma or high blood pressure, your doctor could have to alter the dosage of other medications.