Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Most adults have found that medication can help ease their ADHD symptoms so they can focus, feel calm and have better relationships. Medications can also help with other treatment methods like psychotherapy.
Stimulants are the most effective medication to treat ADHD in adults. These include methylphenidate-based compounds and amphetamines. Adults can take long-acting medications that are slow-acting but last 3 to 6 hours or short-acting drugs several times per day.
Stimulants
The most efficient ADHD treatment for adults is stimulants, which boost levels of brain chemicals controlling mood and attention. These include norepinephrine and dopamine. These medicines come in the form of pills that can be swallowed (Adderall and Adderall SR Ritalin) or liquids that can be swallowed, or crushed (Evekeo ODT) and chewable tablets (Methylphenidate, Methylin). The most popular type of stimulant is amphetamine. Some doctors may prescribe bupropion, venlafaxine or Atomoxetine for the treatment of ADHD when combined with other treatments like behavioral therapy and skills training.
While stimulants can help improve attention and focus however, they are not suitable for everyone. They can have side effects such as stomach upset and an increase in heart rate. Additionally, some people experience tics while taking these drugs. Children and teens may have a slower growth while taking these drugs however this does not affect their final height.
Many people find that mixing different medications helps alleviate their symptoms. A doctor will be monitoring your child or yourself to ensure that the medication working properly. Read the Full Write-up will also be on the lookout for any side effects and adjust the doses to find a dose that is most effective.
The medication is usually prescribed for a brief period of time, and then taken off after the benefits have been seen. During treatment, regular checkups are crucial to evaluate the effectiveness of ADHD medications.
Nonstimulants
Adults who are unable to take the side effects of stimulants or who are experiencing problems with them are usually prescribed non-stimulant medication. These medications, which are mostly dopamine, norepinephrine and alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists start to work slower, but reduce hyperactivity, improve focus, and control impulses. These drugs are usually employed in conjunction with stimulant medications for those suffering from both depression and ADHD.
The FDA has approved both antidepressants as well norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors to treat adult ADHD. Bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) is an antidepressant atypical that increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to lessen symptoms. It takes between three seven days for the drug to start working. It also has mild side-effects such as dry mouth or difficulty sleeping. Effexor (venlafaxine) is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor that is also used to treat chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. It also helps with anxiety and depression and takes between 3 and 7 days to begin working.
A combination of medication and therapy, as well as behavioral changes and skills training is usually the most effective approach to treat adult ADHD. This approach has proven to be effective for most people. Medvidi can help you or your loved one get the diagnosis of ADHD and treatment recommendations. Through a secure online platform, you can meet with a physician who will assess your symptoms and medical history and suggest an ADHD treatment plan. Contact MEDvidi to schedule a consult.