How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or amphetamine boost and balance brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them as pills, liquids or patches.
Healthcare professionals also use drugs called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. They are typically used "off-label" to treat this condition, since they're FDA-approved to treat other conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications. They increase levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine which aid in improving concentration and control of impulses. Doctors typically prescribe stimulants for people suffering from ADHD but they might also prescribe them to treat related conditions like anxiety and depression. These are controlled substances, as they can become habit-forming. They should be used under the supervision of a physician. Stimulants can help people with ADHD control their symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the condition. They can also cause adverse effects like heart palpitations and difficulty sleeping.
There are many different stimulant drugs that doctors are able to prescribe to people suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs are classified into two major categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less likely to cause adverse effects and addiction than amphetamines. They are available in short-acting as well as long-acting varieties. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medications take between 6 and 16 hours to achieve their maximum effectiveness. Long-acting medications may be suggested by doctors for patients who have difficulties remembering to take their medication on a regular basis.
Healthcare professionals may initially try nonstimulant medications if some adults do not respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four medications that are non-stimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine) and guanfacine. These drugs have less of an impact on an impulsive behaviour than stimulants, but they can be extremely effective in treating specific essential ADHD symptoms.
The use of medication can be combined with other treatments, such as environmental and behavioral therapy, to optimize their effectiveness. Therapists can, for instance help parents and families learn how to assist their children in managing ADHD symptoms and provide them with instruction in how to manage the disorder.
The most effective ADHD medication is the one that minimizes the adverse effects and manages symptoms most effectively. It can be an experiment of trial and error to determine the right drug, dosage and time to take it for best results. People with ADHD should also think about lifestyle changes to maximize their success, such as getting enough sleep and staying away from caffeine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may notice changes in their symptoms over time. They should therefore see their doctor regularly to monitor and adjust their medication. Ideally, doctors schedule monthly appointments with patients who are diagnosed with ADHD or uncontrolled symptoms, and then every 3-6 months until their symptoms and functioning are under control. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical attention for the disorder. Treatments can dramatically enhance the lives of those who suffer from the condition, leading to better relationships, employment and health outcomes. The AAP suggests that people suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking with a physician regarding the risks and benefits of stopping or resuming the drug. adhd medication uk suggests that this could be a difficult process and recommends that an expert in mental health or a pediatrician who has experience in the field of ADHD perform an exhaustive examination.