How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or amphetamine can boost brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them in the form of pills, liquids or patches.
Healthcare professionals also take drugs known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. These are usually used "off-label" to treat this condition because they're FDA-approved for use to treat other ailments.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD drugs. They boost levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine which aid in improving focus and control of impulses. Doctors usually prescribe stimulants to adults with ADHD however, they can also prescribe them to treat conditions related to it such as depression and anxiety. These are controlled substances because they can be habit-forming. They should be taken under the supervision of a medical professional. These stimulants are effective in helping people with ADHD control their symptoms, but they do not solve the problem and can cause side effects like heart palpitations or trouble sleeping.
There are a myriad of kinds of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe for people suffering from ADHD. They are generally classified into two categories: methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of adverse effects, such as addiction, than amphetamines. Visit Homepage are available in short-acting and longer-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants can be effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medications take 6-8 hours or 16 hours to reach their maximum effects. Doctors may prescribe long-acting drugs for people who struggle to remember to take their medicine regularly.
Healthcare professionals may initially try nonstimulant medications if some adults do not respond to stimulants. Visit Homepage has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for adults with ADHD including atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine, guanfacine, and Clonidine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants for treating an impulsive personality, but can be extremely beneficial in treating specific primary ADHD symptoms.
The use of medication can be combined with other forms of treatment, such as environmental and behavioral therapy, to optimize their effectiveness. Therapists can, for instance instruct parents and families how to assist their children in managing ADHD symptoms and provide them with the necessary skills.
The most effective ADHD medication is the one that reduces adverse effects and manages symptoms most efficiently. It's a process of trial and error to find the right drug, dosage, and time of day to take it for best results. To get the most out of their treatment, people with ADHD must also consider making lifestyle changes. For instance, getting enough sleep and avoiding caffeine are two of the most important.
The symptoms of ADHD often change throughout a person's life, so adults with ADHD must see their physician regularly to check for changes and monitoring of their medications. Ideally, doctors schedule monthly visits with people who have a diagnosis of ADHD or uncontrolled symptoms and then every 3-6 months until their symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical treatment for the disorder. Treatments can dramatically enhance the lives of those with the condition and can lead to improved relationships, careers and health outcomes. The AAP suggests that people suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking to a doctor about the risks and benefits. The AAP suggests that this could be a difficult process and suggests that a mental health professional or pediatrician with experience in the field of ADHD conduct a thorough examination.