The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults with ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants. They aid in adjusting levels of two chemical messengers within the brain that control attention.
The most effective adhd medication for adults is Strattera (atomoxetine). It is available as capsules that can be taken with food or without food. It is suitable for the majority of people. It lasts longer than stimulants that have a shorter duration of action like amphetamine or methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD drug, performs differently from stimulant medications such as Adderall. It alters brain chemicals that regulate impulse control, attention and behavior. Strattera is effective for most people, however, the results for each individual will differ. The effectiveness of the drug for you is dependent on your symptoms as well as other factors, such as overall health and genetics.
Stimulants such as Ritalin or Vyvanse release amphetamine, also known as methylphenidate, into your body in a rapid manner which increases concentration and decreases hyperactivity. These medications can have side effects such as difficulty sleeping and a higher risk of having seizures and heart problems, tics or sudden noises and movements like clearing your throat. Stimulant drugs may also worsen the tics of adults with Tourette's syndrome. Strattera can be a good option for people with ADHD that want to avoid stimulant medications or who are unable to tolerate its negative side effects.
The most commonly used dose of Strattera, 40 milligrams once daily in morning. The doctor might recommend a lower dosage or two doses. It is recommended to not take more than 80 mg per day. Some studies show that taking the medication in the morning is more effective than in the evening.
Strattera has the benefit of not being a controlled substance. This makes it safer than other ADHD medication. However, it's not suitable for every person, so your physician may try other medications before making a recommendation for this one. It is important to inform your doctor about any positive or negative changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior while taking Strattera. The FDA warns the drug may increase the risk of suicide, especially when you are just beginning treatment and your dosage is altered.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree is a trademarked medicine that doctors prescribe to adults suffering from ADHD. It belongs to a class of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. In a research study sponsored by Supernus Pharmaceuticals the researchers found that the drug reduced ADHD symptoms in a few adults after a six-week test. It also improved performance and reduced the amount of impulsivity among some patients.
In addition to helping with inattention and hyperactivity, the medication can help those suffering from bipolar disorder and depression. Before taking the medication, it is essential to discuss your symptoms and goals with your physician. Your doctor might also suggest treatments that can be used along with medication to improve the overall outcome of your treatment.
Stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin are usually considered first-choice for those suffering from ADHD however, they might not be suitable for all. For those who are not able to take stimulants or experience other adverse reactions can benefit from nonstimulant medications such as Qelbree and Strattera.
Nonstimulant drugs like stimulants, which can lead to abuse and dependence, do not affect 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, stomachaches, sleeplessness, and weight loss that are caused by stimulant use.
Although the doctors aren't quite sure how Qelbree functions in the brain they believe that it increases the quantity of norepinephrine in the brain and decreases dopamine. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate impulses and concentration.
Qelbree is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat adults and children ages 6 years and over. It is an oral capsule taken every day at a moderate dosage that can be increased.
3. Bupropion
Doctors typically prescribe medication to treat ADHD in addition to psychosocial therapies. The most popular of first-line medications is stimulant drugs. They aid in reducing symptoms and perform better at work, home or school. Some people might need to try a variety of different medications before settling on one that is the most effective for them. GPs are able to recommend specific brands of medication and will provide regular check-ups in order to ensure they're working as intended.
Doctors may also prescribe nonstimulant medication. These medications don't cause the same effects as stimulants and are safer for those suffering from heart conditions. They can reduce impulsivity and improve concentration and focus.
Bupropion, commonly known as Wellbutrin is an antidepressant that's also used to treat ADHD. It increases levels of dopamine, a chemical messenger, and slightly increases levels of norepinephrine which helps to calm people and improve impulse control. Doctors can prescribe it either as an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. The tablet that works immediately is faster. The extended-release tablet works slower and lasts longer.
Tell adhd and depression medication if you have previously taken any other medication, including over-the counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications like Guanfacine and clonidine may interact with the medication.
If you have a co-morbidity your doctor may suggest alternative options for medication including an SSRI or SNRI. adhd without medication were originally developed to treat depression and anxiety. They also help improve ADHD by reducing impulsivity, improving the quality of life and attention, and reducing impulsivity.
Doctors can also refer patients for psychological therapy, such as CBT (cognitive behavior therapy). It is a type of therapy that has been proven to help those suffering from ADHD. It helps people with ADHD new ways of thinking and acting. It can also improve family relationships and lives.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine is a drug that works in a completely different manner than stimulants. It reduces the activity in certain brain regions to regulate impulse-driven behavior. It can be prescribed as an immediate-release tablet, guanfacine (Tenex) or extended-release tablets under the brand name Intuniv. It could take a few weeks before the full effects of the medication are evident. Doctors usually start patients on a low dosage and gradually increase the dosage.
It isn't clear how guanfacine helps to treat ADHD, but it may 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 of eight weeks, guanfacine reduced ADHD symptoms when compared to placebo. This improvement was not as dramatic however, as it was with 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 can also be used when the person is a child between the six and 17 years or when a medical condition makes it unsafe to take stimulants.
Stimulants boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They can improve concentration, focus, and impulsivity. Nonstimulant drugs, such as bupropion and atomoxetine hinder the brain's ability to absorb these neurotransmitters. They can be used in combination with behavioral therapy as part of a complete treatment plan.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific parts of the brain, which improves concentration, improves impulsiveness and concentration, and can be prescribed to teenagers and adults when methylphenidate treatment hasn't ameliorated symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine is a first-choice drug for children over 5 with ADHD however it is also available to adults and teens who's symptoms do not improve after at least six weeks of treatment methylphenidate or other stimulants.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine is part of a group of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic antagonists. These medications improve blood flow by relaxing blood arteries. Clonidine may also reduce diarrhea.
In the beginning, the FDA approved it to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is now used to address various conditions and symptoms, including depression and anxiety. Clonidine is also effective for people with IBS.
The doctor could prescribe it as a patch or tablet. It is usually taken along with other ADHD medication. It is essential to take this medication as directed otherwise it won't work. Clonidine is available under the brand name drug Kapvay and also as a generic version, clonidine ER (Kapvay XR).
Adults are advised to take 0.1 mg of the medication orally prior to bedtime. The dosage can be gradually increased by 0.1 mg every week until your physician determines what the daily maximum dose is.
Clonidine is effective in improving the quality of sleep. This is a typical effect of stimulant medications. It can also help in reducing the side effects of stimulants, such as aggression, jitteriness and tics. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that behavioral strategies be explored prior to prescribing medications for insomnia.
Clonidine is well-known to interact with many other medications, including antipsychotics and sedatives. It may also increase the risk of seizure in certain people. Taking clonidine can also raise your blood pressure and heart rate It is important to let your doctor know if you are taking any other medications or have a history of medical problems. It is also crucial to gradually reduce the dose of clonidine in order to avoid sudden withdrawal. This can cause high pressure, headaches or chest tightness. It can also cause anxiety.