ADHD Medication For Adults - What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?<br /><br />Stimulant medications are the cornerstone for ADHD treatment, but they do not work for all people. Nonstimulant drugs and antidepressants may aid.<br /><br />Treatments for adults suffering from ADHD could be patches, pills or liquids. They can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior. They are prescribed by a doctor in the event that stimulants don't perform or cause adverse side effects.<br /><br /><br /><br />1. Strattera<br /><br />Strattera, the brand name of atomoxetine is a highly effective ADHD medication for adults. Contrary to stimulant medications such as Adderall which boost dopamine and norepinephrine availability in the brain to reduce ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. Dr. Zishan, a Texas psychiatrist and regional director of Mindpath Health, says that Strattera does not cause you to feel more energetic or increase anxiety. It is able to control impulse-driven behaviors, without causing more the jitteriness. He adds that atomoxetine is also an excellent choice for those with specific medical reasons for avoiding stimulants, like seizures, or glaucoma that is poorly controlled or people who are concerned about substance abuse issues.<br /><br />Doctors classify Strattera as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It's an antidepressant drug that alters the brain's functions by altering its use of norepinephrine. Dr. Zand notes that Strattera is typically prescribed to treat depression, but it can also be used to treat ADHD. It can be especially beneficial for those who have an underlying condition like ADHD with anxiety. It is usually prescribed in smaller doses initially and then gradually increased in accordance with the weight and age of the patient.<br /><br />The most common adverse effects include drowsiness, nausea, and changes in appetite. Strattera may interact with other medications which include stimulants. It should not be taken in conjunction with Clonidine or any other medication that block monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to take effect than stimulants and may take up to 24 hours to wear off. Doctors may suggest combining Strattera and stimulants to increase the effects. For example, adding Adderall and Ritalin. This is not a very common practice and should only be done under the supervision of a doctor. In addition to this, the FDA puts a black box warning on Strattera indicating that it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening liver problems in a few people.<br /><br />2. Methylphenidate<br /><br />Methlphenidate belongs to a group of drugs known as central nervous stimulants. It also treats the condition known as narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness as well as sudden episodes of sleep). Methlphenidate alters the amount of certain natural substances inside your brain. This medication is only available with a prescription.<br /><br />The stimulants function by increasing and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Most people with ADHD opt for them as their first option. However, they can cause negative side effects like insomnia, stomach upset and difficulty with concentration. Talk to your doctor about the side effects you're experiencing. If they are serious they might suggest a different medication for you.<br /><br />It is important that you inform your doctor if you or your child are taking methylphenidate. Some medicines may interact with methylphenidate and have harmful side effects. Talk to your doctor if ever had a history of seizures, depression or other mental health issues.<br /><br />Some people suffering from ADHD are not responsive to methylphenidate. In this situation your doctor may suggest other ADHD treatments such as atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Some people suffering from ADHD might benefit from psychological therapies, such as behavioural treatment.<br /><br />Methlphenidate can be found in both short-acting tablets and long-acting ones. The short-acting tablets start working within a matter of minutes and need to be taken 2 or 3 times per day to get an effect that is continuous. Long-acting tablets are released into your bloodstream slower and last longer. Your doctor will check for allergy to methylphenidate before prescribing the drug.<br /><br />3. Atomoxetine<br /><br />While stimulant medications are the first choice for treating ADHD however, they can cause side effects that are difficult to tolerate. Nonstimulant medications are an excellent alternative for adults who are unable to take stimulant drugs or are not able to respond to them. Nonstimulants enhance the capacity of ADHD patients to focus, control impulses, and reduce hyperactivity. The drugs are slowly absorbed within the body. This makes the medication work for a longer time and prevents symptoms from returning after the drug wears off. The medications are typically taken in capsules or pills and come in different strengths. Some are long-acting and can last up to 16 hours. It is normal for many people to try several medications before settling on one that is the most effective for them.<br /><br />Atomoxetine, an antidepressant, has been FDA approved to treat ADHD both in children and adults. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/adult-adhd-medication">Iam Psychiatry</a> belongs to a group of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of medications increases the levels of norepinephrine. This can help to reduce impulsivity and improve concentration. It is also less likely to cause negative side effects such as agitation and anxiety than other stimulant medications.<br /><br />It is essential to speak with your doctor prior to starting any new medication. It could take a few weeks before you notice any changes in your symptoms however, you should continue to take the medication as directed. Your doctor will be monitoring you and make adjustments to the dosage as required.<br /><br />Several antidepressants are used off-label in the treatment of ADHD however, they have not been specifically tested in studies for this condition. They are usually prescribed if you suffer from other mental health issues like anxiety or depression, cannot tolerate stimulants or have an history of substance abuse. Bupropion is one of the most common examples of this kind of off-label medication that has been proven effective in some individuals.<br /><br />4. Wellbutrin/Zyban<br /><br />The decision to seek treatment for ADHD as an adult is a personal one. It is essential to discuss with your doctor the potential risks and benefits of all treatments before making a choice. If you do choose to treat your ADHD It's likely your dosage and schedule will change as you adjust to the effects of your treatment.<br /><br />Stimulants are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD and operate by triggering a mechanism that increases and regulates levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. However there are a number of alternatives that aren't stimulants for people who are struggling with stimulants due to health issues or serious side effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug that has been approved for ADHD and is a stimulant that works on norepinephrine within the brain to improve focus and attention. Venlafaxine (Effexor) can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. However, more studies are required to confirm this.<br /><br />Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in addition to the medications mentioned above can help you overcome negative thoughts and behaviors that can contribute to ADHD. During sessions, you will learn skills such as moderated thinking, reassessing your all-or nothing mentality, and reducing the negative self-talk you have about yourself. You can do CBT as a solo or in groups.<br /><br />Bupropion, an antidepressant that is atypical is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain to improve mood and concentration. Wellbutrin can be taken in three daily 150 mg-450 mg doses, but your doctor may start you with a lower dosage. It is not recommended to take Wellbutrin in the event that you have an history of seizure disorders eating disorders, a disorder of the stomach, or glaucoma.<br /><br />5. Effexor<br /><br />Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that's also effective in treating ADHD. Like stimulants, it functions by altering dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels. It isn't FDA approved to be used as treatment for ADHD, but it's frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition, particularly when stimulant medicines are not recommended or cause unacceptable side effects. Some patients also benefit from antidepressants such as bupropion and duloxetine, that are available under the brand names Wellbutrin and Cymbalta.<br /><br />Two blood pressure medications--guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)--are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both medications increase norepinephrine and serotonin levels in the brain, which improves the communication between nerve cells. They also reduce impulsivity and reduce hyperactivity which makes them a good choice for people with ADHD who have depression or anxiety.<br /><br />Non-stimulant ADHD medication is also popular among students in high school and young people due to the fact that stimulants may increase the risk of heart disease. Atomoxetine, or Strattera, increases norepinephrine. Clonidine and guanfacine affect alpha-2 receptors in the brain to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.<br /><br />Some people's effectiveness with non-stimulant medications decreases over time. Your medical history, the genetics of your family, and response to medications will determine the best solution for you. Many people suffering from ADHD will try several different medications over time to determine what is most effective for them. It's also normal to need to adjust your dosage as time goes by. This is particularly the case when life changes are significant. Speak to your doctor about the best medication for your needs. Then, you can choose the medications that will allow you to live your life to the fullest.<br /><br />