The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
The majority of medications used to treat ADHD fall into two categories: nonstimulants and stimulants. stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines increase activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior.
Non-stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay) perform slower than stimulants but can help increase focus, concentration and impulsivity. They also appear to decrease anxiety which is often associated with ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
The first drug that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulant medication. However, advice here aren't for everyone and they can have bad adverse effects for certain people. Nonstimulant medications take longer to work, but can improve inattention or the impulsiveness of certain adults. ADHD is best treated with the combination of medication and behavioral therapy.
Medications are about 70%-80% effective for treating ADHD in adults. The medication is just one aspect of treatment, though: many people discover that lifestyle changes and skills training also help. Inform your doctor if you encounter any adverse reactions or issues with the medication. a fantastic read will allow them to adjust your dosage as required.
There are two types of stimulant medicines: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are the most common medication for ADD/ADHD. They are available in a variety of strengths and forms, including liquid, chewable tablets, or capsules. They're generally considered safe for adults and children. However, they shouldn't be used by people suffering from arteriosclerosis or glaucoma that is advanced or with symptomatic heart disease or who have recently taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Amphetamines are similar as methylphenidates, but they are more potent. They are less likely to cause major adverse effects and are more efficient in treating ADHD symptoms than methylphenidates. They're also more likely to cause dependence and abuse, which is why they're classified as Schedule I drugs.
The stimulants of both kinds can have some unpleasant side effects, including stomach upsets, headaches, jitters, trouble sleeping, and a decrease in appetite. However, the majority of these are mild and don't last more than a few weeks.
Nonstimulant medications
Nonstimulant ADHD medications take longer to effect than stimulants. They aren't as effective however they can improve inattention and reduce irritability. They work by boosting the brain chemicals that regulate emotions and focus attention. There are several kinds of these medicines and some doctors prescribe them in conjunction with stimulants to get the most out of both treatments.
Strattera (atomoxetine), an SNRI that increases the levels of norepinephrine inside the brain, which reduces the tendency to be impulsive and inattention. FDA approval took a long time but the drug has been shown to be effective in treating ADHD. Guanfacine (Intuniv) is a blood pressure medicine that also increases levels of norepinephrine, and reducing impulsiveness. It takes a little longer to work than methylphenidate and amphetamines. It also has a stronger "no-fly effect" on the brain. Zyban/Wellbutrin, (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are other drugs that boost the level of norepinephrine. They aren't approved by FDA to treat ADHD, but they can help some people with this disorder. Additionally, antidepressants are sometimes used to treat ADHD because they can raise the levels of certain brain chemicals that influence mood and behavior.