How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Drugs that stimulate the brain such as methylphenidate or amphetamine can boost brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them as liquids, pills or patches.
Healthcare professionals also take drugs known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. These medications are usually used "off-label" as they are FDA-approved for a variety of ailments.
Stimulants
The stimulants are the most common ADHD medications prescribed. They increase the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and d-opamine, which helps to improve focus and control of impulses. Adults with ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants, however they can also be used to treat other ailments such as anxiety and depression. These medications are categorized as controlled substances due to the fact that they can be habit-forming, so they must be administered under a doctor's supervision. These stimulants can help people suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms quickly, but they do not cure the disorder. They can also trigger negative side effects, such as heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are dozens of different types of stimulant medications that healthcare professionals can prescribe to adults suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant medications are classified into two major categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates carry a lower risk of side effects, including addiction as compared to amphetamines. The stimulants are available in shorter-acting and longer-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants take effect in 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting drugs take 6-8 or 16 hours to reach their maximum effects. Doctors may recommend long-acting medications for people with difficulty remembering to take their medicine on a regular basis.
Healthcare professionals will likely first try nonstimulant medication 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 medications have less impact on impulsive behavior than stimulants, but they can be very efficient in treating certain core ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medications can be combined with other types of treatments, like behavior therapy and environmental restructuring. For instance, therapists can teach parents and families strategies to assist their children with ADHD and give them skills training to manage their symptoms.
The best ADHD medication is the one that has the lowest symptoms and side effects most effectively. It is an experiment of trial and error to find the best dosage, drug, and time of day to take it for best results. To get the most out of their treatment people suffering from ADHD must also consider making lifestyle changes. For example sleeping enough and abstaining from coffee are two of the most crucial.
The symptoms of ADHD frequently change over the course of an individual's life, therefore people with ADHD must see their physician frequently to monitor and adjust the dosage of their medication. similar resource site is for doctors to schedule monthly visits with people who are diagnosed with ADHD or uncontrolled symptoms and after that, every 3 to 6 months until their symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults with untreated ADHD seek medical care for the disorder. Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medications that enhance their lives and leads to better health, relationships, and jobs. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before consulting with a physician to discuss the potential risks and benefits. The AAP warns that this can be a difficult choice and recommends that an expert in mental health or pediatrician with expertise in the area of ADHD conduct a thorough assessment.