The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Stimulants are the most effective treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. They help adjust levels of two chemical messengers in the brain that regulate the ability to pay attention.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the most effective adhd medication available for adults. It is available as capsules that can be taken with food or without. Most people find it efficient. It lasts longer than stimulants with an action time that is shorter like amphetamine and methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication, meaning it works differently from stimulant drugs like Adderall. It alters brain chemicals that regulate impulse control, attention and behavior. Strattera is effective for a majority of people, however, the results for each individual may differ. The effectiveness of the medication is dependent on your symptoms as well as other factors such general health and genetics.
Stimulants, like Ritalin and Vyvanse, release the amphetamine methylphenidate in your body quickly, which enhances focus and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs can cause side effects such as difficulty sleeping and a higher risk of having seizures and heart problems, tics or sudden noises and movements like clearing your throat. Stimulant drugs may also worsen tics in adults who have Tourette's syndrome. Strattera is a great choice for adults with ADHD who wish to avoid stimulant medication or do not want to suffer its negative side effects.
The most commonly used dose of Strattera is 40 milligrams once daily in the morning. The doctor may suggest smaller doses or two divided doses. Do not exceed 80 mg per dose. Some studies have shown that taking the medication early in the morning is more efficient than taking it later in the evening.
One benefit of Strattera is that it's not a controlled substance, which makes it safer to take as opposed to other ADHD medications. It's not for everyone, so your doctor may recommend other medications first before giving you the recommendation for Strattera. Inform your doctor if you notice any changes in your mood or behavior while taking Strattera. The FDA warns that the drug can increase your risk of suicidal thinking particularly early in treatment and after your dose is adjusted.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree (viloxazine extended-release) is a brand name drug that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD in adults. It belongs to a class of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. In a study sponsored by Supernus Pharmaceuticals the researchers found that the drug decreased ADHD symptoms in a few adults after a test lasting six weeks. It also improved performance in certain patients and decreased the amount of impulsivity.
The medication can also assist those suffering from bipolar disorder and depression. Before you begin taking the medication it is important to discuss your symptoms and your goals with your physician. Your doctor may also recommend therapy that can be combined with medication to improve the overall outcome of your treatment.
Adderall, Ritalin and other stimulant drugs are typically the first choice for those who suffer from ADHD. However they may not be suitable for everyone. For those who are not able to take stimulants or have other side effects can benefit from nonstimulant medications such as Qelbree and Strattera.
In contrast to stimulants, which carry the potential to cause abuse and dependence, non-stimulant medications do not raise the levels of natural brain chemicals or alter the parts of the brain that are involved in attention. They also alleviate symptoms without headaches, jitters, stomachaches, insomnia and weight loss that can be associated with stimulant use.
Although scientists aren't certain how Qelbree works in the brain they believe that it increases the amount of norepinephrine available and reduces dopamine. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate impulses and improve focus.
Qelbree has been endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration to treat adults and children ages 6 years and over. It is a capsule for oral use that is taken every day at a low dosage that can be increased.
3. Bupropion
In addition to psychosocial treatment doctors frequently prescribe medication to treat ADHD. The most common first-line, or gold standard, medicines are stimulant drugs. They can help alleviate symptoms and function better at home, work or school. Some people might need to try a variety of different medications before settling on one that works best for them. Physicians can suggest specific brands of medications and provide regular follow-ups to make sure they're working well.
Nonstimulant medications may be prescribed by a doctor. These drugs don't have the same effects as stimulants and are safer for people with heart problems. They can decrease impulsivity, increase focus and concentration.
Bupropion, commonly known as Wellbutrin is an antidepressant used to treat ADHD. It increases levels of dopamine which is a chemical messenger and norepinephrine. This helps to calm people down and improves their impulse control. Doctors can give it either as an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. The immediate-release tablet is more effective. The extended-release tablet is slower but lasts longer.
It is important to inform your doctor about any other medicines you're taking or have previously taken including prescription drugs and supplements. Certain medications such as Guanfacine or clonidine can interact with the medication.
If you have a comorbidity, your doctor might consider other medication options such as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) or an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Both were developed to treat depression and anxiety. They also help aid in reducing ADHD by cutting down on impulsivity, enhancing the quality of life and attention, and reducing the risk of impulsivity.
GPs may also refer patients for psychological therapy, such as CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy). It's a therapy that involves talking that has proven to be effective for those suffering from ADHD. It helps people with ADHD new ways to think and behave. It can also improve family relationships and lives.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine operates in a totally different manner than stimulants. It slows down the activity in certain brain regions to manage the impulsive behavior. It is available as a guanfacine tablet (Tenex) or extended-release tablet under brand name Intuniv. It could take a few weeks to see the full impact of the drug. Doctors usually start patients with a low dose and gradually increase the dosage.
It isn't clear how guanfacine can help treat ADHD however, it could be able to help by reducing norepinephrine levels in certain regions of the brain that regulate impulsivity and attention. It is also believed to lower blood pressure. In a study lasting eight weeks, guanfacine significantly reduced ADHD symptoms compared with placebo. This improvement was not as dramatic as seen by stimulants, however.
This medication is usually only prescribed for ADHD when stimulants like amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are not tolerated or do not produce adequate results. This medication is sometimes prescribed for children between the ages 6-17 or when a medical condition renders stimulants dangerous.
Stimulants balance and increase levels of neurotransmitters within the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can enhance concentration, focus and impulsivity. Non-stimulant drugs, such bupropion and atomoxetine slow down the brain's ability to absorb these neurotransmitters. They can be used as part of the treatment plan which includes the use of behavioral therapy.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain parts of the brain and increases concentration and impulsiveness. It also increases focus and can be given to adults and teenagers if at least 6 weeks of treatment with methylphenidate have not resulted in improvement of their symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine should be the first choice medication for children older than 5 years old who suffer from ADHD. However, it can also be given to teens and adults whose symptoms have not improved after six weeks of treatment.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine belongs in a class of drugs referred to as alpha-adrenergic inhibitors. These medications improve blood flow by relaxing blood arteries. adult add medications can also reduce the frequency of diarrhea.
In the beginning, the FDA approved it to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is now used to treat various conditions and symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Clonidine can also be effective for those suffering from IBS.
It is available as a patch or tablet and can be prescribed by your doctor. It is often used in conjunction with other ADHD medications. It is essential to take this medication according to the directions or it will not work. Clonidine is available as the brand-name drug Kapvay and as a generic version, clonidine ER (Kapvay XR).
Adults are given 0.1 mg taken orally prior to the time of sleeping. The dose can be increased in increments of 0.1 mg every week until your doctor determines the dosage that is the highest daily amount.
Clonidine is effective in improving the quality of sleep. This is a typical side-effect of stimulant drugs. Clonidine is also helpful in reducing the effects of stimulants such as aggression, jitteriness, and tics. However it is recommended that the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends trying methods to manage insomnia prior to prescribing medications.
Clonidine has been known to interact negatively with other medications such as antipsychotics, sedatives and sedatives. Additionally, it can increase the risk of seizure in some individuals. Clonidine use can also raise your heart rate and blood pressure and blood pressure, so it's crucial to inform your doctor whether you're taking other medications or have an history of medical issues. It is also crucial to taper off clonidine gradually in order to avoid sudden withdrawal. This can cause headaches, high pressure or chest tightness. It can also cause nervousness.