The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
The majority of medications used to treat ADHD are classified into two groups: stimulants and nonstimulants. stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines boost brain activity areas that regulate attention and behavior.
Non-stimulants, such as guanfacine the atomoxetine and clonidine perform slower than stimulants but they aid in improving concentration, attention, and impulsivity. They also seem to reduce anxiety, which is often associated with ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications are often the first choice of doctors for treating ADHD but they aren't suitable for everyone and can cause negative side effects for some people. Nonstimulant medicines take longer to work, however they can improve attention span or impulsivity in certain adults. ADHD is best treated using a an interdisciplinary approach of behavioral therapy and medication.
Medicines are around 70%-80% effective in treating ADHD in adults. The use of medications is only part of the treatment. Many people also find that lifestyle changes and skill training can help. It's important to tell your doctor about any problems or side effects you have from the medication so that they can modify your dosage as needed.
There are two kinds of stimulant medications amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are the most common medication for ADD/ADHD. They're available in various strengths and forms, like chewable tablets, liquids or capsules. They're generally considered safe for most adults and children. However, they shouldn't be taken by people who have arteriosclerosis that is advanced, glaucoma or with symptomatic heart disease or who have recently taken monoamine inhibitors of oxidase (MAOIs).
Amphetamines have similar effects as methylphenidates, but they are more potent. They're generally less likely to cause serious adverse effects, and are more effective than methylphenidates in the reduction of symptoms of ADHD. They're also more likely to lead to addiction and abuse, so they're classified as Schedule I drugs.
Both types of stimulants may cause unpleasant adverse effects, such as stomach upsets, headaches insomnia and jitters. However, the majority of these are mild and don't last more than a few weeks.
Nonstimulant medicine
Nonstimulant ADHD medications take longer to work than stimulants. adhd uk medication might not be as effective however, they can improve inattention and irritability. They work by boosting brain chemicals that control emotions and focus the attention. There are many kinds of these medicines and some doctors might prescribe them along with a stimulant to get the most out of both treatments.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI which increases the levels of norepinephrine within the brain, reducing the impulsivity and inattention. It took a long time for it to be approved by the FDA for treating ADHD however, it's been proven to be effective in adults. Guanfacine (Intuniv) is a blood pressure medicine that also works by increasing levels of norepinephrine, and reducing the impulsiveness. It takes a bit longer to work than methylphenidate and amphetamines. It also has a more "no-fly effect" on the brain. Other medications that boost norepinephrine levels include Wellbutrin/Zyban (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). The FDA has not approved these drugs to treat ADHD. However they could be beneficial to some people. Antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD, as they can increase the levels of brain chemicals that affect mood and behavior.
