How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or amphetamine function by increasing and balancing levels of brain chemicals. Doctors often prescribe them in the form of pills, liquid or patches.
ADHD can also be treated by health professionals using drugs called alpha-2 agonists and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. These are usually used "off-label" to treat this condition, since they're FDA-approved for treating other conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD drugs. They increase the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which aid in improving focus and control of impulses. Doctors usually prescribe stimulants to people suffering from ADHD but they might also prescribe 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 taken under the supervision of a physician. Stimulants work quickly to help people suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms, but they do not cure the disorder and they can trigger side effects such as heart palpitations or difficulty sleeping.
There are a myriad of types of stimulant medications that healthcare professionals can prescribe for adults with ADHD. The majority of stimulant medications fall into two main categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of side effects, such as addiction as compared to amphetamines. Stimulants come in short-acting and long-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants can be effective within 30 minutes, and last for 3-4 hours. Long-acting and intermediate stimulants take between 6 and 16 hours to get their maximum effects. Long-acting drugs may be recommended by doctors for patients who are having difficulty remembering to take their medication on a regular basis.
Certain adults may not be able to respond to stimulants and healthcare professionals will likely look into nonstimulant drugs first. types of adhd medication has approved four medications that are non-stimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine (clonidine) and the guanfacine. These medications are less effective than stimulants when it comes to treating an impulsive personality, but are extremely helpful in treating certain fundamental ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medicines can be used in conjunction with other types of treatments, like environmental and behavior therapy. Therapists can, for instance, teach parents and families how to assist their children in managing ADHD symptoms and offer them skills training.
The most effective ADHD medication is the one that minimizes the symptoms and side effects most effectively. It is an exercise of trial and error to discover the best dosage, drug and time to take it to get the best results. People suffering from ADHD must also think about changes in their lifestyle to ensure success, such as getting enough sleep and staying away from caffeine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may experience changes in their symptoms over time. They should therefore visit their doctor regularly to monitor and adjust their medication. Ideally, over the counter adhd medication will make appointments every month with patients with new diagnoses of ADHD or uncontrolled symptoms, and after that, every 3 to 6 months until their symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that people suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical treatment. Medications can significantly improve the lives of adults suffering from the condition and lead to improved relationships, careers, and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medications prior to consulting a doctor to discuss the benefits and risks. The AAP suggests that this could be a difficult decision and suggests that an expert in mental health or pediatrician with expertise in the field of ADHD perform a thorough assessment.