How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamine are effective in boosting and balancing levels of brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them in the form of pills, liquid or patches.
ADHD can also be treated by health professionals using drugs known as alpha-2 agonists and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. medication for autism and adhd are typically employed "off-label" because they are FDA-approved for other conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are among the most common ADHD medication prescribed. They boost the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which help improve concentration and control of your impulses. Doctors usually prescribe stimulants to adults suffering from ADHD, but they may also use them to treat conditions related to it like anxiety and depression. These drugs are controlled substances, as they can cause dependence. They should be used under the supervision of a medical professional. Stimulants can help people with ADHD control their symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the condition. They can also trigger side effects such as heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are a variety of brands of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe to people suffering from ADHD. The majority of them fall into two categories: methylphenidates as well as amphetamines. Methylphenidates are more likely to cause adverse effects and addiction than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants are effective within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Long-acting and intermediate stimulants take between 6 and 16 hours to achieve their maximum effect. Doctors may prescribe long-acting drugs for people with difficulty remembering to take their medicine on a regular basis.
Healthcare professionals may initially try nonstimulant medications if some adults do not respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four drugs that are non-stimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine) and the guanfacine. These medications have less effect on an impulsive behaviour than stimulants, however they are extremely effective in treating specific fundamental ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medication can be combined with other types of treatments, including environmental and behavior therapy. For instance, therapists can teach parents and families strategies to assist their children who suffer from ADHD and also provide them with the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD medication is the one that reduces side effects and controls symptoms most efficiently. It can be an experiment of trial and error to find the best dosage, drug, and time of day to take it for the best results. People suffering from ADHD should also think about changes in their lifestyle to ensure success, including getting enough rest and avoiding caffeine.
Symptoms of ADHD tend to change throughout a person's life, so people with ADHD must see their physician frequently to monitor and adjust the dosage of their medication. Doctors should schedule appointments on a monthly basis with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms, and then every 3 to 6 months until symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adults with untreated ADHD seek medical attention. Adults with ADHD can benefit from medication that improves their lives and leads to better health as well as relationships and jobs. The AAP suggests that people suffering from ADHD not stop taking their medication prior to talking to a doctor about the benefits and risks. The AAP warns that this can be a difficult process and recommends that an expert in mental health or pediatrician with experience in the area of ADHD conduct an exhaustive examination.