The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants. They help regulate levels of two chemical messages in the brain which control attention.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the most effective medication for adhd available for adults. It is available as a capsule that can either be taken with food or without. It works well for most people. It is also more effective than less powerful stimulants, like amphetamine and methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication, which means that it functions differently than stimulant medications such as Adderall. It alters brain chemicals that regulate the control of impulses, attention and behavior. The majority of people who use Strattera see significant improvement in their symptoms, but individual responses can vary. adhd without medication depends on your symptoms as well as other factors, such as your overall health and genetics.
Stimulants, such as Ritalin and Vyvanse release amphetamine methylphenidate into your body quickly, which increases focus and decreases hyperactivity and impulse control. These drugs can cause adverse effects, such as trouble sleeping, an increased risk of seizures and heart issues, as well as the tics, or rapid movements and sounds such as throat clearing. The stimulant drugs can also cause the tics of adults with Tourette's syndrome. Strattera is a good option for those with ADHD who wish to stay clear of stimulant drugs or who are unable to tolerate their side effects.
The most common dose of Strattera, 40 milligrams once every day in the morning. Doctors may start you on smaller doses or suggest 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 at night.
The benefit of Strattera is that it's not a controlled substance, which makes it safer to take than many other ADHD medication. However, it's not a good fit for all people, so your doctor may consider other medications before recommending this one. You should tell your doctor about any negative or positive changes in your mood, thoughts, or behaviors while you are taking Strattera. The FDA warns that the drug can increase the susceptibility to suicidal thoughts particularly early in treatment and as 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 financed by the manufacturer Supernus Pharmaceuticals, researchers found that over the course of a six-week test the drug decreased ADHD symptoms in some adults. It also improved the performance of certain patients and decreased the degree of impulsivity.
The medication can also help with depression and bipolar disorders. Before taking the medication, it is important to discuss your symptoms and your goals with your doctor. Your doctor can also recommend therapy, which could be combined with medication to improve the overall outcomes of treatment.
Adderall, Ritalin and other stimulant drugs are typically the first choice for people who suffer from ADHD. However, they may not be effective for all. Nonstimulant medicines like Qelbree or Strattera are suitable for people who are not able to take stimulants or have side effects.
Nonstimulant medications, unlike stimulants that can result in dependence and abuse are not affecting the brain areas that are responsible for attention, nor do they increase the levels of the natural brain chemicals. They also can reduce symptoms without headaches and jitters as well as stomachaches, sleeplessness and weight loss that are associated with stimulant use.
Although the doctors aren't quite sure what Qelbree functions in the brain, they believe it increases the availability of norepinephrine and decreases dopamine. Norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, helps control impulses and concentration.
Qelbree is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat adults and children ages 6 years and older. It is an oral capsule that is taken every day at a low dosage that can be increased.
3. Bupropion
Doctors frequently prescribe medications to treat ADHD in addition to psychosocial treatments. The most effective of these medications is stimulant drugs. They ease symptoms and aid people perform better at school, work or home. Certain people may need to test a variety of medicines before they find the one that works best for them. Physicians can suggest specific brands of medications and offer regular check-ups to ensure they're functioning well.
Doctors may also prescribe nonstimulant medication. These medications don't have the same effects as stimulants, and are safer for those with heart problems. They can reduce impulsivity, increase focus and concentration.
Bupropion, commonly known as Wellbutrin is an antidepressant, which is also used to treat ADHD. It increases levels of dopamine, a chemical messenger, and norepinephrine. This helps calm people and improves impulse control. Doctors can prescribe it as a tablet that has immediate-release or an extended-release. The tablet that is immediate-release works faster. The extended-release tablet works slower and lasts longer.
Tell your doctor if you have previously taken any other medication, including over-the counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications, such as clonidine and guanfacine, can interact with the medication.
If you suffer from a comorbidity, your physician 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 can also improve ADHD symptoms by decreasing impulsivity and improving mood, focus and attention.
The GP can also recommend patients to psychological therapy like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). CBT is a form of therapy that involves talking that has been proven to aid people suffering from ADHD. It helps people with ADHD new ways of thinking and behavior. It can also improve relationships and family life.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine operates in a totally different manner than stimulants. It decreases activity in specific areas of the brain to regulate the impulsive behavior. It can be prescribed as an immediate-release tablet, guanfacine (Tenex), or extended-release tablets with the brand name Intuniv. It may take a few weeks to feel the full effects of the drug. Doctors usually start patients on a low dose and gradually increase the dosage.
It is not clear how guanfacine helps to treat ADHD however it is believed to result in a decrease in norepinephrine production in specific areas of the brain that regulate impulsivity and attention. It is also believed to lower blood pressure. In a study lasting eight weeks, guanfacine reduced ADHD symptoms when compared with placebo. The results were not as dramatic but it was comparable to stimulants.
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 employed when the patient is a child between the ages of 6 and 17 years or when a medical condition makes it unsafe to take stimulants.
Stimulants increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters, like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They can help improve focus, concentration, and impulsiveness. Nonstimulant drugs, like bupropion and atomoxetine slow down how quickly the brain absorbs these neurotransmitters. They can be used in conjunction with behavioral therapy as a part of a comprehensive treatment program.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain regions of the brain, which improves concentration, improves impulsiveness and focus, and may be given to teens and adults when methylphenidate treatment hasn't resulted in improvement of symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine is a first-choice medication for children older than 5 who suffer from ADHD, but it is also available to adults and teenagers who's symptoms don't improve after at least six weeks of treatment methylphenidate or other stimulants.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine is part of a class of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic antagonists. These drugs increase blood flow by relaxing blood arteries. Clonidine can also help reduce diarrhea.
In the beginning, the FDA approved it to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is used to treat a wide variety of symptoms and conditions like depression and anxiety. Clonidine can also assist people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
It is available as a tablet or patch and is prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken along with other ADHD medication. This medication must be taken according to the directions or it will not work. Clonidine is available under the brand name drug Kapvay and as a generic version, clonidine ER (Kapvay XR).
The dosage for adults is 0.1 mg taken orally prior to bedtime. The dosage can be increased by increments of 0.1 mg each week until your physician determines the maximum daily dose.
Clonidine has been found to be effective in improving the quality of sleep as a frequent side effect of stimulant medication. It can also help in reducing the side effects of stimulants, such as anxiety, jitteriness, and tics. However, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine suggests trying techniques to combat insomnia prior to prescribing medication.
Clonidine has been known to interact negatively with other medications, such as antipsychotics, sedatives and sedatives. It may also increase the risk of seizures in certain people. Clonidine can also increase your blood pressure and heart rate Therefore, you should inform your doctor be aware of any medication you're taking or if you have an medical background. It is also crucial to taper off clonidine gradually, as sudden withdrawal can cause high pressure, headaches, chest tightness and anxiety.
