How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The most common medication prescribed by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and other neurotransmitters inside the brain in order to improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors.
They're available in immediate-release tablets or long-acting liquid capsules (like Dynavel XR). Long-acting stimulants are less prone for abuse.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the first medication doctors typically prescribe for adults suffering from ADHD. They boost levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which help people manage their impulses and focus. Doctors often recommend these drugs as a combination treatment with psychosocial interventions, such as counseling and training in skills.
Certain people suffering from ADHD discover that they require to take a medication for the rest of their lives. The right medication can alleviate symptoms and improve a person's success in their work and relationships. However the effects of medicines can wear off when you stop taking them or have other health problems.
There are a myriad of medications that can be prescribed to treat ADHD. It could take time for your doctor and you to find the one that is most suitable for you. Medicines do not cure ADHD however it can manage the symptoms and make them less apparent so that you can perform better at home and at work. You may need to try various doses before you find one that works best and has fewer side consequences.
Methylphenidate, also known as Adderall, is the most commonly prescribed medication to treat ADHD for children and adults. It quickly improves concentration and control of impulses. However, it will not lead to addiction or dependency. Other stimulants include amphetamines, which have a more powerful effect and last longer than methylphenidate, however they can also increase the heart rate and blood pressure and should be avoided for those with heart issues.
Both stimulants are available in chewable tablets, liquids, and immediate-release tablets. You can also opt for extended-release formulations, which last up to 8 hours and are recommended by doctors for adults. These long-acting medications are often the most effective since they give you the benefits of the drug throughout the day.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants aren't effective or have unpleasant adverse effects, your doctor may suggest nonstimulant medication to treat your ADHD. These medications, like bupropion and atomoxetine work slower than stimulants, but they can help you focus, manage emotions, and behave in a manner that is appropriate. These drugs are available to people with ADHD and anxiety or depression as an add-on treatment for stimulants.
Certain non-stimulant medications can trigger symptoms such as weight loss, appetite change, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, dry mouth and changes in sexual drive. The changes in sexual drive may be temporary, but they could be a problem for some. Consult your physician when you have any of these side effects. These medicines might not work for everyone with ADHD, so you should keep trying different treatments until you find the ones that work for you. adhd medication names (CBT), for example, can teach you how to manage your symptoms. It is possible to do CBT with a qualified therapist individually or in groups. Other treatments that might help are diet and exercise schedules, sleep schedules and healthy eating. If your symptoms are severe and impact your quality of life, it is possible to seek treatment from a psychiatrist or a doctor.