Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
The use of medications is the foundation of a variety of adult ADHD treatment plans for adults with ADHD. Finding the right medication dosage and medication is not always straightforward.
Stimulants:
These medicines are used to treat both hyperactivity and inattention. They work by increasing the levels of chemicals in the brain that transmit messages between nerve cells. They are typically taken multiple times per day and can be effective within less than an hour.
Stimulants
Most doctors start with stimulants to treat ADHD. They work by increasing the activity of certain brain regions that regulate impulses and attention. They also enhance the way the brain transmits messages between nerve cells. These effects can increase the ability of people to concentrate, follow directions, and get along well with others.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate. It is available in tablet form and includes brands such as Adderall, Ritalin and its generic versions. Doctors may also prescribe a shorter-acting version that dissolves quickly in the mouth. Methylphenidate works quickly and lasts for a short period of time, which means that people have to take it several times throughout the day.
Atomoxetine is a newer medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It has FDA approval for children and adults older than 5 years. It increases levels of a substance in the brain called noradrenaline, which helps to improve concentration and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. Atomoxetine comes in capsule form and is usually taken once or twice daily.
Certain antidepressants can also be used to treat ADHD including bupropion, which has been approved for use in adults. Antidepressants have a slower effect than stimulants, but can help with symptoms for certain adults who aren't able to take the adverse effects of stimulants.
Doctors may also recommend counseling or behavioral therapies in addition to medication to help treat the symptoms of ADHD. These therapies can help people manage their behavior, improve their relationships and create strategies for dealing with ADHD.
Untreated ADHD can cause significant problems at school, at work and at home. They may have difficulty keeping up with the demands of their academics. They may also experience an increased rate of job loss or turnover and are more troubled in their marriages and other intimate relationships than those who do not have the disorder. They also are at greater risk of alcohol abuse and mental health disorders 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 assess the severity of symptoms as well as the way they affect daily activities and what effect the symptoms affect school or work performance. The doctor can then recommend the right medication and dosage for the individual.
It is essential to speak with the doctor about all the medications you or your child uses, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. The provider will want to know if the medications interact with any ADHD medications.
A doctor can provide information on the various ADHD treatments and how they affect the body. They can also give advice regarding lifestyle changes that could improve symptoms and make it easier to follow an appropriate treatment program. It can take some time to find the ideal website dosage, dose and schedule for each person. With patience and a careful monitoring, ADHD medications can help people live more successful lives.