How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine boost and balance brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them as pills, liquids or patches.
Healthcare professionals also use drugs called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists for treating ADHD. They're usually prescribed "off-label" for this purpose, since they're FDA-approved to treat other ailments.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD drugs. natural adhd medication boost the levels of brain chemicals like norepinephrine as well as dopamine which aid in improving focus and control of impulses. Adults with ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants, but they can also be used to treat other conditions such as anxiety and depression. These are controlled substances, as they can be habit-forming. They should be taken under the supervision of a medical professional. Stimulants can help people with ADHD manage their symptoms quickly however they don't cure the condition. They can also trigger negative side effects, such as heart palpitations and difficulty sleeping.
There are many different stimulant medications that doctors can prescribe to people suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant medications are classified into two categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less likely cause adverse effects and addiction than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants take effect in 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medicines take 6-8 or 16 hours to achieve their maximum effectiveness. Doctors may recommend long-acting medications for people with difficulty remembering to take their medicine on a regular basis.
natural adhd medication might not be responsive to stimulants, and healthcare professionals will likely look into nonstimulant drugs first. The FDA has approved four drugs that are nonstimulant to adults with ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine (clonidine), and guanfacine. These medications have less effect on the impulsive behavior than stimulants, yet they are extremely effective in treating certain fundamental ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medications can be used in conjunction with other types of treatments, including behavior therapy and environmental restructuring. For instance, therapists could instruct parents and families on strategies to assist their children with ADHD and give them techniques to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD medication for adults is the one that manages the symptoms with the most effectiveness and causes fewer side effects. It can be an experiment of trial and error to find the appropriate dosage, medication, and time of day to take it for best results. To ensure their success those suffering from ADHD must also consider making lifestyle changes. For example sleeping enough and avoiding caffeine are two of the most important.
The symptoms of ADHD frequently change over the course of a person's life, so those with ADHD must see their physician regularly for monitoring and adjustment of their medication. The ideal scenario is for doctors to schedule monthly appointments with patients with new diagnoses of ADHD or uncontrolled symptoms and then every 3-6 months until their symptoms and functioning are under control. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that people suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical treatment. The use of medications can greatly improve the lives of people with the condition, leading to improved relationships, careers and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication without talking to a doctor regarding the risks and advantages of stopping or beginning the medication. The AAP warns that this can be a difficult process and suggests that an expert in mental health or pediatrician with expertise in the field of ADHD perform a thorough evaluation.