The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants. They aid in regulating levels of two chemical messages in the brain that regulate attention.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the most effective treatment for adhd available for adults. It is a pill or oral capsule that can be taken with or without food. It works well for most people. It lasts longer than more sedatives, like amphetamine and methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a nonstimulant ADHD medication, which means that it works differently from stimulant medications such as Adderall. It affects brain chemicals that regulate the control of impulses, attention and behavior. Strattera is effective for most people, but individual responses may differ. The effectiveness of the drug for you is contingent on your symptoms and other factors, including your overall health and genetics.
Stimulants, like Ritalin and Vyvanse, release the amphetamine methylphenidate in your body quickly, which enhances focus and reduces hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. These drugs can have adverse effects, such as insomnia as well as a higher risk of seizure and heart problems and sudden noises and movements, such the clearing of your throat. The stimulant drugs can also cause the tics of adults with Tourette's syndrome. Strattera is a great option for people with ADHD who want to avoid stimulant medications or cannot tolerate their negative effects.
The most popular dose of Strattera, 40 milligrams once every day in the morning. The doctor might recommend smaller doses or two divided doses. You should not exceed 80 mg per dose. Certain studies have shown that taking the medication in the morning is more effective than in the evening.
One benefit of Strattera is that it's not a controlled substance, making it safer to take than many other ADHD medication. But it doesn't work well for everyone, so your doctor might try other medications prior to making a recommendation for this one. Tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your mood or behavior while taking Strattera. The FDA warns the drug may increase your risk of suicide, especially when you are first starting treatment and your dose is adjusted.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree (viloxazine extended-release) is a brand-name medication that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD in adults. It belongs to the class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. In a research study that was funded by the manufacturer, Supernus Pharmaceuticals, researchers found that in a six-week trial the drug reduced ADHD symptoms in some adults. It also improved performance in certain patients and reduced the degree of impulsivity.
In addition to helping with hyperactivity and inattention The medication can also help with bipolar disorder and depression. Before you start taking the medication, it is important to discuss your symptoms and your goals with your physician. Your doctor might also suggest treatments that can be used along with medication to improve the overall outcome of your treatment.
Stimulant drugs like Adderall and Ritalin are usually considered first-choice for those suffering from ADHD however, they might not be suitable for all. Those who cannot tolerate stimulants or experience other side effects can benefit from non-stimulant drugs such as Qelbree and Strattera.
Nonstimulant medicines in contrast to stimulants that could lead to abuse and dependence they do not affect the brain areas that control attention or increase the levels of natural brain chemicals. They also can reduce symptoms without the headaches, jitters, stomachaches, insomnia and weight loss that can be associated with stimulant use.
Qelbree is believed to increase the availability of dopamine and reduce norepinephrine levels in the brain. Doctors are not sure what the mechanism is. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate impulses and concentration.
Qelbree has been endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration to treat children and adults 6 years and older. It is a pill or oral capsule that is taken one time a day at a dose that is low at first and can be adjusted up.
3. Bupropion
In addition to psychosocial treatment doctors frequently prescribe medication to treat ADHD. The most effective of these medications is stimulant drugs. They improve symptoms and help people be more productive at school, work or at home. There are many different medications available, and some people may require a number of tests before settling on the one that is right for them. GPs can recommend specific brands of medication and offer regular check-ups to ensure that they're working effectively.
Nonstimulant medications may be prescribed by doctors. These medications don't have the same effects as stimulants and are safer for people with heart problems. They can help reduce impulsivity and increase focus and concentration.
Bupropion (also called Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant used to treat ADHD. It boosts the levels of dopamine, a chemical messenger, and norepinephrine. This helps calm people and improves impulse control. Doctors can prescribe it in the form of an immediate-release or extended release tablet. The tablet that works immediately is quicker. The extended-release tablet is slower but lasts longer.
Inform your doctor if you have ever taken any other medication, including over-the counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications, such as Guanfacine or clonidine can interfere with the medication.
If you have a co-morbidity your doctor might suggest other options for treatment for you, like an SSRI or an SNRI. Both were developed to treat depression and anxiety. They also help aid in reducing ADHD by reducing impulsivity, improving concentration and mood, and decreasing impulsivity.
GPs may also refer patients for psychological therapy, such as CBT (cognitive behavior therapy). CBT is a form of therapy that involves talking that has been proven to help people suffering from ADHD. It teaches people who have ADHD new ways of thinking and acting. It can also aid in improving family relationships and improve the quality of life for children.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine is completely different from stimulants. It decreases the activity of certain brain regions to regulate the impulsive behavior. It is available as a guanfacine tablet (Tenex) or extended-release tablets under the brand name Intuniv. It could take a few weeks to feel the full impact of the medication. Doctors typically begin patients on a lower dosage and increase it gradually.
It is not known what the effects of guanfacine on ADHD however, it is believed to help by reducing the levels of norepinephrine in certain brain regions that control the impulsivity. It is also thought to lower blood pressure. In a study of eight weeks the guanfacine drug reduced ADHD symptoms when compared with placebo. The improvement was not as significant however, as it was with stimulants.
This medication is usually only prescribed for ADHD when stimulants like amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are not tolerated or do not produce adequate results. The medication is usually recommended for children 6-17 years old or when a medical condition makes stimulants unsafe.
Stimulants increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. They can improve concentration, focus, and impulsiveness. Nonstimulant medications, such as bupropion and atomoxetine, slow down the rate at which the brain absorbs these neurotransmitters. They can be used in combination with behavioral therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific parts of the brain, increases concentration, improves impulsivity and focus, and may be prescribed to teenagers and adults when methylphenidate treatment hasn't ameliorated symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine should be the first treatment option for children who are older than 5 years old who suffer from ADHD. However, it can also be given to teens and adults who have not seen improvement in their symptoms after six weeks of treatment.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine belongs in a class of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic antagonists. medication for adult adhd increase blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels. Clonidine can also help reduce diarrhea.
Initially, the FDA approved it to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is now used to address a variety of ailments and symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Clonidine can also assist those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
Your doctor might prescribe it as a patch or tablet. It is usually taken along with other ADHD medications. It is essential to use this medication in accordance with the directions or else it won't be effective. Clonidine is available as a brand-name drug Kapvay and as a generic version, clonidine ER (Kapvay XR).
The dose for adults is 0.1 mg taken orally prior to bedtime. The dose can be gradually increased by 0.1 mg every week until your doctor determines what the daily maximum dose is.
Clonidine is effective at improving sleep quality. This is a common side-effect of stimulant drugs. It also helps in reducing the side effects of stimulants like aggression, jitteriness and tics. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine suggests that behavioral strategies be tested prior to prescribing medication for insomnia.
Clonidine is well-known to interact with many other medications, such as sedatives and antipsychotics. Additionally, it could increase the risk of having seizures in certain individuals. Clonidine can also raise your blood pressure and heart rate, so you should let your doctor know about any medications you take or if there is an medical background. It is also important to gradually decrease the dosage of clonidine in order to avoid sudden withdrawal. This can result in headaches, high pressure or chest tightness. It can also cause anxiety.