Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
The use of medications is the foundation of a lot of adult ADHD treatment plans for adults with ADHD. But finding the right drug and dosage can be difficult.
Stimulants:
These medications are used to treat both hyperactivity and inattention. They work by increasing levels of chemicals in the brain that transmit messages between nerve cells. They are taken several times per day and begin working in under an hour.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the primary medication that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They work by boosting the activity of certain areas of the brain which help manage attention and impulses. They also improve how the brain transmits messages between nerve cell. These effects can help improve people's ability to remain focused, follow directions and be able to communicate with other people.
The most commonly used stimulant, methylphenidate comes in tablet form and includes brands like Adderall, Ritalin, and their generic versions. Doctors can also prescribe a short-acting form that dissolves quickly in your mouth. Methylphenidate is fast-acting and lasts for a brief duration, which is why people have to take it several times a day.
Atomoxetine is a brand new medication that is part of a class of drugs known as selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It is a drug that has FDA approval for children and adults older than 5 years. It boosts the levels of noradrenaline in the brain, which increases concentration and reduces impulsive behavior. Atomoxetine comes in capsule form and is typically taken once or twice a day.
Some antidepressants can be used to treat ADHD including bupropion, which has been approved for use by adults. Antidepressants have a slower effect than stimulants, however they can alleviate symptoms in adults who cannot tolerate the adverse effects.
Doctors may also recommend counseling or behavioral therapies in addition to medications to help treat the symptoms of ADHD. These therapies can help people control their behavior, improve their relationships and develop strategies to cope with ADHD.
Untreated ADHD can cause significant issues at work, school and at home. They may have difficulty keeping up here with the demands of academics. They could also experience more frequent job loss or turnover and may have more issues in their relationships with spouses and other intimate relationships than those who do not have the disorder. They are also at a higher risk of addiction to drugs as well as mental health issues like anxiety and depression (Kessler and colleagues 2007).
A person with ADHD should discuss the best treatment option with a healthcare professional. The doctor can evaluate the severity of the symptoms, including how they interfere with daily activities and the impact the symptoms have on work or school performance. The doctor can then recommend the appropriate dosage and medication for the individual.
It is important to inform the doctor about all the medications your child or you is taking, including prescription medications and supplements. The doctor must know if any of them interact with any of the ADHD medication.
A healthcare professional can also explain what to expect with the various ADHD medication and how they function in the body. They can also provide suggestions on lifestyle changes that could help improve symptoms and make it easy to follow a treatment regimen. It can take some time to find the best medicine dosage, dose, and schedule for every person. With patience and careful monitoring, ADHD medications can help people lead more fulfilling lives.