How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine work by boosting and balancing levels of brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them as pills, liquids or patches.
Healthcare professionals also utilize medications known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. These medications are typically employed "off-label" as they are FDA-approved for other conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. They increase levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which aid in improving focus and control 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 categorized as controlled substances due to the fact that they can create a habit and therefore must be administered under a physician's supervision. The use of stimulants can help those with ADHD control their symptoms quickly however they don't cure the condition. They can also trigger negative side effects, such as heart palpitations, insomnia and sleep disturbances.
There are a variety of brands of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe to adults with ADHD. Most of them fall into two categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of adverse effects, such as addiction and apathy, than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in shorter-acting and longer-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Long-acting and intermediate medications require 6-8 hours or 16 hours to reach their maximum effects. Long-acting drugs may be recommended by medical professionals for patients who have difficulty remembering to take their medication on a consistent basis.
Some adults might not respond to stimulants, and healthcare professionals will likely look into nonstimulant drugs first. The FDA has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for adults with ADHD including atomoxetine (guanfacine), guanfacine, viloxazine, and clonidine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants when it comes to treating the impulsive behavior, but they can be very helpful for treating specific primary ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medications can be used in conjunction with other types of treatments, like environmental and behavior therapy. adhd medication ritalin , for instance, teach parents and families how to help their children manage ADHD symptoms and offer them skills training.
The most effective ADHD medication is one that reduces adverse effects and manages symptoms most efficiently. It is a process of trial and error to discover the right drug, dosage, and time of day to take it for best results. People with ADHD should also consider changes in their lifestyle to ensure success, including getting enough sleep and avoiding caffeine.
Adults who suffer from ADHD may have changes in their symptoms as time passes. They should therefore visit their doctor regularly to monitor and adjust their medication. The ideal scenario is for doctors to make appointments every month with patients who are diagnosed with ADHD or symptoms that are not controlled, and then every 3-6 months until their symptoms and functioning are under control. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adults with untreated ADHD seek medical attention. Treatments can dramatically improve the lives of adults suffering from the condition and can lead to improved relationships, careers and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before consulting a doctor to discuss the risks and benefits. This is a difficult decision and the AAP suggests a thorough assessment by an experienced pediatrician or mental health professional.