How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine are effective in boosting and balancing the levels of brain chemicals. Doctors often prescribe them in the form of pills, liquids or patches.
ADHD can be treated by healthcare professionals using drugs called alpha-2 agonists as well as norepinephrine reup inhibitors. These medications are typically employed "off-label", since they are FDA-approved for other ailments.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. how does medication for adhd work boost levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine, which help to improve focus and control of impulses. Doctors typically prescribe stimulants to adults with ADHD, but they may also use them to treat related conditions like anxiety and depression. These are classified as controlled substances due to the fact that they can be habit-forming which is why they should be taken under a doctor's supervision. Stimulants can help people with ADHD control symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the disorder. They can also trigger side effects such as heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are many stimulant drugs that doctors can prescribe to people suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs are classified into two categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less likely to cause adverse effects and addiction than amphetamines. Stimulants are available in both shorter-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants can be effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Long-acting and intermediate stimulants require 6-8 hours or 16 hours to reach their maximum effectiveness. Long-acting medications may be suggested by doctors for patients who are having trouble remembering to take their medication on a consistent basis.
Certain adults may not be responsive to stimulants, and healthcare professionals will most likely look into nonstimulant drugs first. The FDA has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for people suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine) and the guanfacine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants for treating impulsive behavior, but can be very helpful for treating some of the fundamental ADHD symptoms.
They can be paired with other types of treatment, such as environmental and behavioral therapy, to optimize their effectiveness. For instance, therapists can teach parents and families strategies to assist their children who suffer from ADHD and also provide them with skills training to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD medication is the one that has the lowest side effects and controls symptoms most efficiently. Finding the appropriate dosage, medication and timing to take it could be a trial-and-error process. People suffering from ADHD should also think about changes in their lifestyle to ensure results, such as getting enough sleep and staying away from caffeine.
The symptoms of ADHD often change over the course of the course of a person's life. Therefore, people with ADHD should see their doctor frequently to monitor and adjust the dosage of their medications. Doctors should make appointments every month with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms and then every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning are controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek out medical care. Medications can significantly enhance the lives of those who suffer 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 talking with a physician about the risks and advantages of stopping or beginning the drug. This is a difficult decision, and the AAP suggests a thorough assessment by an experienced psychiatrist or pediatrician.