How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine boost and balance brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them as pills, liquid or patches.
Healthcare professionals also take drugs known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists to treat ADHD. These medications are typically used "off-label" as they are FDA-approved for a variety of conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. They increase the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which help to improve focus and control impulses. Adults with ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants, however they may also be used to treat other conditions like anxiety and depression. These medications are considered controlled substances due to the fact that they can create a habit, so they must be administered under a doctor's supervision. Stimulants work quickly to help people suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms but they don't cure the condition and can cause side effects like heart palpitations or difficulty sleeping.
There are a variety of brands of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe for adults suffering from ADHD. does adhd medication work of stimulant medications are classified into two categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less prone to the risk of side effects, such as addiction, than amphetamines. They are available in shorter-acting and longer-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants take effect in 30 minutes and last about 3-4 hours, whereas intermediate and long-acting drugs take between 6-8 and 16 hours to attain their maximum effect. Long-acting drugs may be recommended by doctors for patients who have difficulties remembering to take their medication on a regular basis.
Healthcare professionals are likely to start with nonstimulant medications in the event that some patients do not respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for adults with ADHD: atomoxetine, viloxazine, guanfacine, and clonidine. These drugs have less effect on an impulsive behaviour than stimulants, yet they can be extremely effective in treating specific essential ADHD symptoms.
The use of medication can be combined with other forms of treatment, such as behavioral therapy and environmental restructuring to maximize their effectiveness. For instance, therapists could teach parents and families strategies to assist their children with ADHD and also provide them with the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
The best ADHD medication is the one that has the lowest adverse effects and manages symptoms most efficiently. Finding the appropriate dosage, medication and time to take it can be a trial-and-error procedure. Patients with ADHD should also think about changes in their lifestyle to ensure success, including getting enough rest and avoiding caffeine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD might have changes in their symptoms as time passes. They should therefore visit their doctor frequently to check and modify their medication. Ideally, doctors schedule monthly visits with people 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 adults with untreated ADHD seek medical attention. The use of medications can greatly improve the lives of people with the condition and can lead to better relationships, employment, and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that people with ADHD not stop taking their medication before talking to a doctor about the potential risks and benefits. This can be a complicated decision, and the AAP recommends a thorough evaluation by a qualified pediatrician or mental health professional.