Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
Medicines are the mainstay of many adult ADHD treatment strategies for adults with ADHD. Finding the right dosage and dose isn't always easy.
Stimulants:
These drugs can be used to treat hyperactivity and inattention. They work by increasing levels of chemicals in the brain that transmit messages between nerve cells. They are administered several times a day and begin working in less than one hour.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the first drugs that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They work by increasing activity in specific brain areas that control attention and impulses. They also improve the way that the brain relays messages between nerve cells. These effects can help improve people's ability to stay focused, follow directions and be able to communicate with others.
The most common stimulant, methylphenidate is available in tablet form, and includes brands such as Adderall, Ritalin, and their generic versions. Doctors also have a quick-acting version that dissolves quickly in the mouth (Evekeo ODT). Methylphenidate works quickly and lasts for a short period of time, which means that people have to take it multiple times a day.
I Am Psychiatry is a newer drug that belongs to a class of drugs called selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It is a drug that has FDA approval for adults and children older than five years old. It increases the levels of noradrenaline within the brain, which improves concentration and reduces impulsive behavior. Atomoxetine is a capsule form, typically every day, either once or twice.
Certain antidepressants, including bupropion (which has been approved for adults), can be used to treat ADHD. Antidepressants are slower than stimulants, but can improve symptoms for some adults who are unable to take the adverse effects of stimulants.
In addition to these medicines doctors may also suggest counseling or other behavioral therapies to help address symptoms of ADHD. These therapies can help people control their behavior, improve their relationships and devise strategies to deal with ADHD.
People with untreated ADHD are likely to face significant difficulties at work, in school and at home. They may have difficulty keeping up with academic demands and are more prone to job loss or turnover and more problems in relationships with spouses and other close relationships than those who do not have the disorder. They also have a higher risk of substance abuse and mental health disorders, like depression and anxiety (Kessler et al. 2007).
A person suffering from ADHD should discuss the best treatment options with a healthcare provider. The doctor can assess the severity of the symptoms, as well as how they affect daily activities and performance at work or at school. The doctor will then prescribe the correct dosage and medication for the person.
It's important to talk to the doctor about all the medications your child or you uses, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. The provider will want to know if the medications interact with any ADHD medications.
A medical professional can explain what you can expect from different ADHD medications, and how they work within the body. They can also give tips regarding lifestyle changes that can help improve symptoms and make it easier to follow a treatment plan. It could take time to find the right dosage, dose and schedule for each person. With a bit of patience and careful monitoring, ADHD medications can help people live more successful lives.