How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamine are effective in boosting and balancing the levels of brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them in the form of pills, liquid or patches.
ADHD can also be treated by healthcare professionals using drugs called alpha-2 agonists as well as norepinephrine reup inhibitors. They are typically used "off-label" to treat this condition, since they're FDA-approved to treat other conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medications prescribed. They increase levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which help to improve focus and control of impulses. Adults suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants, but they may also be employed to treat other disorders like depression and anxiety. These are classified as controlled substances due to the fact that they can create a habit, so they must be administered under a doctor's supervision. The stimulants can help people suffering from ADHD manage their symptoms however, they aren't able to cure the disorder and they can cause side effects like heart palpitations or trouble sleeping.
There are dozens of different kinds of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe to adults with ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs are classified into two categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are more likely to cause side effects and addiction than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in shorter-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medications require between 6 and 16 hours to attain their maximum effects. Doctors may prescribe long-acting drugs for people with difficulty remembering to take their medication on a regular basis.
Healthcare professionals may first try nonstimulant medication in the event that some patients do not respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four drugs that are nonstimulant for people suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine) and the guanfacine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants when it comes to treating impulsive behavior, but are extremely helpful in treating some of the fundamental ADHD symptoms.
To maximize their effectiveness, medication can be used in conjunction with other types of treatments, such as environmental and behavior therapy. For instance, therapists could provide parents and families with strategies to assist their children who suffer from ADHD and provide them with the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
adhd stimulant medication for adults is the one that can control the symptoms with the most effectiveness and causes fewer side negative effects. Finding the right dosage, medication and timing to take it can be a trial-and-error procedure. To get the most out of their treatment those suffering from ADHD should also consider making lifestyle changes. For instance, getting enough sleep and avoiding coffee are two of the most important.
The symptoms of ADHD tend to change throughout a person's life, so adults with ADHD should visit their doctor regularly to check for changes and monitoring of their medications. Doctors should make appointments every month with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or who are experiencing symptoms that are not controlled and then visit them every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning are well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical care for the disorder. The use of medications can greatly enhance the lives of those suffering from the condition, leading to better relationships, employment and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication without speaking with a physician about the potential risks and benefits of stopping or starting the drug. This is a difficult decision and the AAP suggests a thorough assessment by a trained psychiatrist or pediatrician.
