How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Drugs that stimulate the brain such as methylphenidate or amphetamine boost and balance brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them as liquids, pills or patches.
Healthcare professionals also use drugs called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. adhd medication ritalin prescribed "off-label" for this purpose as they're FDA-approved for treating other conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are the most common ADHD medications prescribed. They boost the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which helps to improve focus and control of impulses. Doctors typically prescribe stimulants for adults suffering from ADHD, but they may also prescribe them to treat other related disorders such as depression and anxiety. These medications are considered controlled substances since they can create a habit which is why they should be administered under a doctor's supervision. These stimulants are effective in helping those suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms but they don't cure the disorder and they can trigger side effects such as heart anxiety or sleep disturbances.
There are many different stimulant drugs that doctors are able to prescribe to adults with ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs are classified into two major categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of side effects, including addiction, than amphetamines. Stimulants are available in both shorter-acting and longer-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last around 3-4 hours, while intermediate and long-acting medicines require between 6 and 16 hours to attain their maximum effectiveness. Long-acting medications may be suggested by medical professionals for patients who have difficulties remembering to take their medication on a consistent basis.
Some adults may not be able to respond to stimulants and healthcare professionals may test non-stimulant medications first. The FDA has approved four drugs that are nonstimulant to adults with ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine) and the guanfacine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants in treating an impulsive personality, but are extremely helpful in treating specific primary ADHD symptoms.
The use of medication can be combined with other types of treatment, such as behavioral therapy and environmental restructuring, to optimize their effectiveness. Therapists, for instance help parents and families learn how to assist their children in managing ADHD symptoms and offer them skills training.
The best ADHD treatment for adults is usually the one that can control their symptoms most effectively and causes fewer side effects. It's a process of trial and error to find the right drug, dosage, and time of day to take it for best results. People with ADHD should also consider lifestyle changes to maximize their success, such as getting enough sleep and avoiding caffeine.
Adults suffering from ADHD may notice changes in their symptoms as time passes. Therefore, they should visit their doctor regularly to review and adjust their medication. Doctors should schedule appointments on a monthly basis with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing symptoms that are not controlled and then visit them every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning are controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all adults with untreated ADHD seek medical attention for the disorder. The use of medications can greatly improve the lives of adults suffering from the condition and can lead to better relationships, jobs, and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before consulting with a physician to discuss the benefits and risks. It can be a challenging decision, and the AAP recommends a thorough evaluation by a qualified psychiatrist or a pediatrician.