The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Stimulants are the most effective treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. They assist in adjusting the levels of two chemical messengers within the brain that control attention.
The most effective treatment for adhd for adults is Strattera (atomoxetine). It is available in a capsule that can either be taken with food or without food. It is suitable for the majority of people. It is also more effective than less powerful stimulants, like amphetamine or methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication, which means that it functions differently than stimulant drugs like Adderall. It affects brain chemicals that regulate the ability to control impulses, attention, and behavior. The majority of people who use Strattera see significant improvement in their symptoms, although individual responses can vary. The effectiveness of the drug for you depends on your symptoms as well as other factors, including general health and genetics.
Stimulants, like Ritalin and Vyvanse release amphetamine methylphenidate in your body quickly, which improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. These medications can cause side effects, including trouble sleeping as well as an increased risk of having seizures and heart problems, as well as tics, which are abrupt movements and sounds, like clearing the throat. Stimulant drugs can also exacerbate the tics of people with Tourette's syndrome. Strattera can be a good option for those with ADHD who wish to avoid stimulant medication or cannot tolerate its side effects.
The most commonly used dose of Strattera is 40 milligrams each day, in the morning. The doctor might recommend smaller doses or two divided doses. Do not exceed 80 mg per dose. Some studies show that taking the medication in the morning is more effective than in the evening.
Strattera has the advantage of not being controlled substances. This makes it more secure than other ADHD medications. However, best adhd medication 's not suitable for everyone, so your doctor may try other medications before making a recommendation for this one. It is important to inform your doctor about any negative or positive changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior while taking Strattera. The FDA warns the drug may increase the risk of suicide, particularly when you are first starting treatment and the dose is adjusted.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree (viloxazine extended-release) is a brand-name drug that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD in adults. It is part of a class of medications known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. In a research study that was funded by the manufacturer, Supernus Pharmaceuticals, researchers found that during a six-week study, the drug reduced ADHD symptoms in some adults. It also improved the performance of certain patients and decreased impulsivity.
The medication can also assist those suffering from bipolar disorder and depression. It is important to speak with your doctor about your medical issues and goals prior to starting the medication. Your doctor may also suggest therapy that can be combined with medication to enhance the overall outcome of your treatment.
Adderall, Ritalin and other stimulant drugs are typically the first choice for those with ADHD. However, they may not be suitable for all. People who are unable to tolerate stimulants or suffer from other side effects can benefit from nonstimulant medications like Qelbree and Strattera.
Unlike stimulants, which have the potential for abuse and dependence, nonstimulant drugs don't increase the amount of natural brain chemicals or affect the areas of the brain that are involved in concentration. They also can reduce symptoms without the headaches, jitters as well as stomachaches, sleeplessness and weight loss that are related to stimulant use.
Although scientists aren't certain what Qelbree affects the brain they believe that it increases the amount of norepinephrine available and reduces dopamine. Norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, helps regulate impulses and concentration.
Qelbree has been endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration to treat children and adults 6 years and older. It comes as an oral capsule that is taken once a day at a dose that is initially low and can be adjusted up.
3. Bupropion
Doctors often prescribe medication to treat ADHD in addition to psychosocial therapies. The most commonly prescribed first-line, or gold standard, medicines are stimulant drugs. They help improve symptoms and perform better at home, work or at school. Certain people may need to try several different medicines before they find the one that is the most effective for them. Doctors can suggest specific brands of medications and provide regular follow-ups in order to ensure they're working properly.
Doctors can also prescribe non-stimulant medication. These medications are less risky for people suffering from heart disease and don't cause stimulant effects. They can help reduce impulsivity and improve concentration and focus.
Bupropion (also also known as Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that is used to treat ADHD. It increases the levels of dopamine, a chemical messenger, and norepinephrine. This helps calm people down and improves their impulse control. Doctors can prescribe it as a tablet with immediate-release or an extended-release. The immediate-release tablet works faster. The extended-release tablet is slower but lasts longer.
Tell your doctor if you have ever taken any other medications, including over-the counter supplements and drugs. Certain medications, such as clonidine and guanfacine, can interact with the medication.
If you have a co-morbidity your doctor might suggest other medication options including an SSRI or an SNRI. Both medications were initially designed to treat depression and anxiety. They also help improve ADHD by reducing impulsivity, improving concentration and mood, and decreasing the amount of impulsivity.
GPs may also refer patients for psychological therapy, such as CBT (cognitive behavior therapy). It is a type of therapy that has been proven to benefit people suffering from ADHD. It teaches people who have ADHD new ways to think and behave. It can also improve family relationships and lives.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine is completely different from stimulants. It slows down the activity in certain brain regions to manage the impulsive behavior. It is available as a guanfacine tablets (Tenex) or an extended-release tablet under the brand name Intuniv. It could take a few weeks before the full effects of the medication are evident. Doctors usually start patients on a low dose and gradually increase the dosage.
It isn't known how guanfacine is used to treat ADHD however, it is believed to help by reducing the levels of norepinephrine in certain brain areas which control impulsivity. It is also believed to lower blood pressure. In a study that lasted eight weeks, guanfacine dramatically reduced ADHD symptoms when compared to placebo. This improvement was not as dramatic as those 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. It is also sometimes used when the person is aged between the ages of 6 and 17 years, or in cases where a medical condition renders it unsafe to take stimulants.
Stimulants regulate and boost levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They can improve focus, concentration, and impulsivity. Nonstimulant drugs, such as bupropion and atomoxetine, reduce the brain's capacity to absorb these neurotransmitters. They can be used in combination with behavioral therapy as part of a complete treatment plan.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific parts of the brain, which improves concentration, improves impulsiveness and focus, and may also be prescribed to adults and teenagers when methylphenidate treatment hasn't improved symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine is a first-choice medication for children over 5 with ADHD, but it is also available to adults and teenagers who's symptoms don't improve after at least six weeks of treatment with methylphenidate or other stimulants.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine belongs to a group of medications called alpha-adrenergic agonists. These medications increase blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels. Clonidine can also reduce diarrhea.
In the beginning, it was approved by the FDA to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is now used to treat various ailments and symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Clonidine can also help people with irritable bowel syndrome.
Your doctor might prescribe it as a tablet or patch. It is often used in combination with other ADHD medications. It is essential to take this medication according to the directions otherwise it will not be effective. Clonidine is available in two forms: the brand name Kapvay, and the generic version (KapvayXR).
Adults should take 0.1 mg orally before bedtime. The dose can be increased in increments of 0.1 mg every week until your physician determines the dose that is the most effective for you.
Clonidine has been found to be effective in improving sleep quality, a common side effect of stimulant medication. It can also help in reducing the side effects of stimulants like aggression, jitteriness and tics. However the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends trying methods to manage insomnia prior to prescribing medication.
Clonidine is well-known to interact with many other medications, including sedatives and antipsychotics. In addition, it may increase the risk of seizures in some people. Clonidine may also increase your blood pressure and heart rate, so it's important to let your doctor know if you are taking any other medications or have a history of medical problems. It's also crucial to decrease the dosage when you stop taking the use of clonidine because abrupt withdrawal may result in high blood pressure, headache, chest tightness nervousness, and other symptoms.