How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine help balance brain chemicals. Doctors typically prescribe them in the form of pills, liquids or patches.
ADHD can also be treated by healthcare professionals using medications called alpha-2 agonists as well as norepinephrine reup inhibitors. They are typically used "off-label" to treat this condition because they're FDA-approved for use to treat other conditions.
Stimulants
The stimulants are the most common ADHD medication prescribed. They increase the levels brain chemicals, norepinephrine and d-opamine which help improve focus and control of impulses. Doctors typically prescribe stimulants for people suffering from ADHD but they might also prescribe them to treat conditions related to it like anxiety and depression. adhd medication names are classified as controlled substances since they can create a habit which is why they should be taken under a doctor's supervision. The use of stimulants can help those with ADHD control their symptoms quickly however they don't solve the problem. They can also cause adverse effects like heart palpitations, insomnia and sleep disturbances.
There are a variety of kinds of stimulant drugs that healthcare professionals can prescribe for people suffering from ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs are classified into two categories: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less likely cause side effects and addiction than amphetamines. Stimulants are available in both shorter-acting and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants take effect in 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours, whereas intermediate and long-acting drugs take 6-8 or 16 hours to achieve their maximum effect. Doctors may prescribe long-acting drugs for people who struggle to remember to take their medicine on a regular basis.
Healthcare professionals may initially try nonstimulant medications when some adults don't respond to stimulants. The FDA has approved four medications that are nonstimulant for people suffering from ADHD. These include atomoxetine (guanfacine) and viloxazine (clonidine) and guanfacine. These medications have less effect on an impulsive behaviour than stimulants, but they can be very effective in treating specific core ADHD symptoms.
The use of medication can be combined with other forms of treatment like environmental therapy and behavioral therapy to maximize their effectiveness. For instance, therapists could teach parents and families strategies to help their children suffering from ADHD and also provide them with the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
The best ADHD medication is one that minimizes the adverse effects and manages symptoms most efficiently. Finding the appropriate dosage, medication and timing to take it can be a process of trial and error. To maximize their success people suffering from ADHD must also consider making lifestyle changes. For example getting enough sleep and cutting down on caffeine are two of the most important.
The symptoms of ADHD tend to change over the course of the course of a person's life. Therefore, people with ADHD should see their doctor frequently to monitor and adjust the dosage of their medications. Doctors should schedule appointments on a monthly basis with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or are experiencing symptoms that are not controlled and then every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning is well-controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical care for the disorder. Adults with ADHD may benefit from medications that enhance their lives and can lead to better health as well as relationships and jobs. The AAP advises that people with ADHD should not stop taking their medication without talking to a doctor about the risks and advantages of stopping or beginning the medication. The AAP suggests that this could be a difficult decision and recommends that a mental health professional or pediatrician with expertise in the area of ADHD conduct a thorough evaluation.