How to Choose adhd medication for Adults
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine are effective in boosting and balancing brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them as liquids, pills or patches.
ADHD can be treated by healthcare professionals using medications known as alpha-2 agonists and norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. These medications are usually used "off-label" as they are FDA-approved for a variety of ailments.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD drugs. They increase levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine, which help to improve focus and control impulses. Doctors usually prescribe stimulants to adults suffering from ADHD but they might also prescribe them to treat other related disorders such as depression and anxiety. These medications are controlled substances, as they can be habit-forming. They should be taken under the supervision of a physician. Stimulants can help people with ADHD manage their symptoms quickly however they don't cure the disorder. They can also cause side effects such as heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are many stimulant medications that doctors can prescribe to people suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs are classified into two categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less prone to the risk of side effects, including addiction, than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last around 3-4 hours, whereas intermediate and long-acting medications take between 6-8 and 16 hours to reach their maximum effectiveness. Long-acting medicines may be recommended by doctors for patients who are having trouble remembering to take their medication on a regular schedule.
Certain adults may not respond to stimulants, and healthcare professionals will likely test non-stimulant medications first. The FDA has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD including atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine and guanfacine as well as clonidine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants when it comes to treating an impulsive personality, but can be very helpful for treating certain fundamental ADHD symptoms.
They can be paired with other treatments, such as behavioral therapy and environmental restructuring to increase their effectiveness. For instance, therapists can teach parents and families strategies to assist their children who suffer from ADHD and provide them with skills training to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD treatment for adults is typically the one that controls their symptoms most effectively and has less side effects. It can be a process of trial and error to find the best dosage, drug, and time of day to take it to get the best results. People with ADHD should also consider lifestyle changes to maximize their results, such as getting enough sleep and staying away from caffeine.
Symptoms of ADHD often change throughout the course of a person's life. Therefore, adults with ADHD should visit their doctor frequently to monitor and adjust the dosage of their medications. The ideal scenario is for doctors to schedule monthly appointments with patients who have a diagnosis of ADHD or symptoms that are not controlled, and after that, every 3 to 6 months until their symptoms and functioning are controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical treatment for the disorder. The use of medications can greatly improve the lives of adults who suffer from the condition, leading to better relationships, jobs and health outcomes. The AAP advises that people with ADHD should not stop taking their medication without speaking with a physician about the risks and benefits of stopping or resuming the drug. The AAP advises that this can be a difficult decision and suggests that a mental health professional or pediatrician with expertise in the field of ADHD perform an exhaustive evaluation.