How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and amphetamine are effective in boosting and balancing brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them in the form of pills, liquids or patches.
ADHD can be treated by healthcare professionals using medications called alpha-2 agonists as well as norepinephrine reup inhibitors. These drugs are often employed "off-label" because they are FDA-approved for different conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are among the most common ADHD medications prescribed. They increase the levels brain chemicals like norepinephrine as well as dopamine which aid in improving focus and control your impulses. Adults with ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants, but they are also used to treat other conditions such as anxiety and depression. These medications are considered controlled substances since they can create a habit which is why they should be administered under a physician's supervision. Stimulants work quickly to help people suffering from ADHD control their symptoms, but they do not cure the condition and can cause side effects like heart anxiety or sleep disturbances.
There are many stimulant medications that doctors can prescribe to adults suffering from ADHD. They are generally classified into two categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less prone to the risk of side effects, such as addiction, than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in shorter-acting and longer-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Intermediate and long-acting medications require 6-8 hours or 16 hours to get their maximum effectiveness. Doctors may prescribe long-acting drugs for people who struggle to remember to take their medicine regularly.
Some adults may not be responsive to stimulants, and healthcare professionals will most likely try nonstimulant medications first. The FDA has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD including atomoxetine (guanfacine), guanfacine, viloxazine, and Clonidine. These medications are less effective than stimulants for treating an impulsive personality, but are extremely helpful in treating certain fundamental ADHD symptoms.
They can be paired with other treatments like environmental and behavioral therapy to maximize their effectiveness. For instance, therapists can teach parents and families strategies to support their children who suffer from ADHD and also provide them with skills training to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD medication is one that has the lowest side effects and controls symptoms most effectively. Finding the right dosage, medication and time to take it can be a trial-and-error procedure. People with ADHD must also think about lifestyle changes to maximize their success, including getting enough rest and avoiding caffeine.
Symptoms of ADHD tend to change over the course of an individual's life, therefore adults with ADHD should visit their doctor frequently to monitor and adjust the dosage of their medications. Ideally, doctors will schedule monthly appointments with patients who are diagnosed with ADHD or uncontrolled symptoms, and after that, every 3 to 6 months until their symptoms and functioning are under control. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical care for the disorder. buy adhd medication uk can significantly improve the lives of adults suffering from the condition, leading to improved relationships, careers and health outcomes. The AAP suggests that people suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking to a doctor about the potential risks and benefits. The AAP advises that this can be a difficult process and suggests that a mental health professional or a pediatrician who has experience in the field of ADHD conduct a thorough evaluation.