How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamine work by boosting and balancing the levels of brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them as liquids, pills or patches.
Healthcare professionals also use medications known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists to treat ADHD. They are typically used "off-label" to treat this condition, since they're FDA-approved for treating other conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD drugs. They increase the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which aid in improving focus and control of impulses. adhd otc medication prescribe stimulants to adults suffering from ADHD, but they may also use them to treat related conditions like anxiety and depression. These medications are considered controlled substances because they can be habit-forming and therefore must be administered under a physician's supervision. The use of stimulants can help those with ADHD control their symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the disorder. They can also cause negative side effects, such as heart palpitations and difficulty sleeping.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs that doctors are able to prescribe to people suffering from ADHD. The majority of them fall into two categories: methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. Methylphenidates have a lower risk of side effects, such as addiction, than amphetamines. They are available in short-acting as well as long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants are effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medicines take 6-8 or 16 hours to achieve their maximum effect. Doctors may prescribe long-acting drugs for people who struggle to remember to take their medicine on a regular basis.
Some adults might not be able to respond to stimulants and healthcare professionals will likely look into nonstimulant drugs first. The FDA has approved four drugs that are nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine) and guanfacine. These drugs have less impact on an impulsive behaviour than stimulants, however they can be extremely effective in treating specific essential ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medication can be combined with other kinds of treatments, including behavioral therapy and environmental restructuring. For instance, therapists could provide parents and families with strategies to help their children suffering from ADHD and provide them with the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
The best ADHD medication is the one that reduces adverse effects and manages symptoms most effectively. Finding the appropriate dosage, medication and timing to take it could be a trial-and-error process. To ensure their success people suffering from ADHD must also change their lifestyle. For example getting enough sleep and abstaining from coffee are two of the most crucial.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may have changes in their symptoms over time. Therefore, they should visit their doctor regularly to monitor and modify their medication. Doctors should make appointments every month with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms and then every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning is managed. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults with untreated ADHD seek medical treatment for the disorder. The use of medications can greatly improve the lives of adults with the condition, leading to improved relationships, careers, and health outcomes. The AAP advises that people with ADHD should not stop taking their medication without talking to a doctor about the potential risks and benefits of stopping or resuming the medication. This is a difficult decision, and the AAP recommends a thorough examination by an experienced psychiatrist or pediatrician.