The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants. They aid in regulating levels of two chemical messages within the brain that regulate the attention.
The most effective medication for adhd for adults is Strattera (atomoxetine). It is a pill or oral capsule that can be taken either with or without food. It is effective for a majority of people. It lasts longer than stimulants that have a shorter duration of action like amphetamine or methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine), a nonstimulant ADHD drug, functions differently than stimulant drugs such as Adderall. It alters the brain chemical that regulates impulse control behavior and attention. Strattera is effective for a majority of people, but the individual response will differ. Whether the drug is effective for you depends on your symptoms and other factors, such as your overall health and genetics.
Stimulants like Ritalin or Vyvanse release the amphetamine, also known as methylphenidate, into your body in a rapid manner which increases concentration and decreases hyperactivity. These drugs can have side effects, such as trouble sleeping as well as an increased risk of developing seizures and heart problems, and the tics, or rapid movements and sounds such as clearing the throat. The stimulant drugs can also cause the tics of people with Tourette's syndrome. Strattera is a great choice for adults with ADHD who want to avoid stimulant drugs or who are unable to tolerate their negative effects.
The most common dose of Strattera, 40 milligrams once each day in the morning. The doctor might recommend a lower dosage or two doses. It is recommended to not take more than 80 mg daily. A few studies have demonstrated that taking the medication first thing in the morning is more efficient than taking it at night.
The benefit of Strattera is that it's not a controlled substance, making it safer to take than many other ADHD medications. It doesn't work for everyone so your doctor may suggest other medications first before suggesting Strattera. It is recommended to inform your doctor about any positive or negative changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior while you are taking Strattera. The FDA warns that the drug can increase the susceptibility to suicidal thoughts especially in the beginning of treatment and after your dose is adjusted.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree is a trademarked drug that doctors prescribe for adults with ADHD. It's part of a class of medications known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. In a research study sponsored by Supernus Pharmaceuticals the researchers found that the drug decreased ADHD symptoms in some adults after a test lasting six weeks. It also improved the performance of certain patients and reduced impulsivity.
The medication can also help with depression and bipolar disorders. Before you start taking the medication, it is important to discuss your symptoms and your goals with your doctor. Your doctor can also suggest therapy, which could be used in conjunction with medication to enhance the overall outcome of your treatment.
Adderall, Ritalin and other stimulant medications are often the first choice for those who suffer from ADHD. However, they may not be effective for all. Non-stimulant drugs such as Qelbree or Strattera are ideal for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or suffer from side effects.
Nonstimulant medicines in contrast to stimulants that could result in dependence and abuse are not affecting the parts of the brain responsible for attention or increase the levels of natural brain chemicals. They also can alleviate symptoms without the anxiety, headaches, stomachaches, insomnia and weight loss that can be associated with stimulants.
Qelbree is believed to increase the availability of dopamine and reduce norepinephrine levels in the brain. Doctors are not sure what the mechanism is. Norepinephrine is an important neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate impulses and improve focus.
Qelbree is a drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration for adults and children 6 years or older. It comes as an oral capsule that can be taken once each day at a dosage that is low at first and can be adjusted up.
3. Bupropion
Doctors frequently prescribe medications to treat ADHD in addition to psychosocial treatment. The gold standard of first-line medications is stimulant medication. They help improve symptoms and perform better at home, work or at school. Certain people may need to try a variety of different medications before finding the one that is the most effective for them. Doctors can recommend specific brands of medicine and conduct regular follow-ups to make sure they're working well.
Nonstimulant drugs can be prescribed by a doctor. These drugs don't have the same effects as stimulants, and are safer for people suffering from heart conditions. They can reduce impulsivity, enhance focus and concentration.
Bupropion (also called Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant medication used to treat ADHD. It boosts levels of dopamine, a chemical messenger, and slightly increases the levels of norepinephrine which can help reduce stress and improve their control over impulses. Doctors may prescribe it as a tablet that has immediate-release or extended-release. The immediate-release tablet works faster. The extended-release tablet is slower, but lasts longer.
It's important to tell your doctor about any other medicines you're taking or have previously taken, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications, such as Guanfacine and clonidine, may interact with the medication.
If you have a comorbidity, your physician might consider other medication options such as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) or an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Both were designed to treat depression and anxiety. They can also reduce ADHD symptoms by reducing impulsivity and improving the quality of life, focus and mood.
Doctors can also refer patients to psychological therapy, such as CBT (cognitive behavior therapy). CBT is a form of therapy that involves talking that has been proven to aid people suffering from ADHD. It teaches people who have ADHD new ways to think and behave. It can also improve relationships and family life.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine is completely different from stimulants. medication for adult add reduces activity in certain areas of the brain to control impulse-driven behavior. It is available in the form of a guanfacine tablet (Tenex) or extended-release tablets under the brand name Intuniv. It could take a few weeks before the full effects of the medication are felt. Doctors usually begin patients on a lower dose and gradually increase the dosage.
It isn't clear what the effects of guanfacine on ADHD however, it is believed to be able to reduce the levels of norepinephrine in specific brain regions which control impulsivity. It is also thought to reduce blood pressure. In one eight-week study Guanfacine was found to reduce ADHD symptoms when compared with placebo. The results were not as significant but it was comparable to stimulants.
This medication is usually only prescribed for ADHD when stimulants like amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are not tolerated or do not produce adequate results. The medication is usually recommended for children 6-17 years old or when a medical condition renders stimulants dangerous.
Stimulants increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine that are found in the brain. They can improve focus, concentration, and impulsivity. Nonstimulant drugs, like atomoxetine and bupropion, slow down how quickly the brain absorbs these neurotransmitters. They can be used as part of an overall treatment plan that incorporates the use of behavioral therapy.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific areas of the brain. It also improves concentration, improves focus and impulsiveness and can be given to teenagers and adults if at least 6 weeks of treatment with methylphenidate had not helped their symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine is a first-choice medication for children who are over 5 years old with ADHD however it can be offered to adults and teenagers who's symptoms do not improve after at least six weeks of treatment with methylphenidate or other stimulants.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine belongs to a group of medications known as alpha-adrenergic Agonists. These medications increase blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels. Clonidine can also help reduce diarrhea.
At first it was FDA approved it to treat high blood tension (hypertension). It is used to treat a wide range of conditions and symptoms including anxiety and depression. Clonidine is also beneficial for those suffering from IBS.
It is available as a tablet or patch and may be prescribed by your doctor. It is often used in combination with other ADHD medications. It is crucial to take this medication according to the instructions or else it won't be effective. Clonidine is available in two forms: the brand-name Kapvay and the generic version clonidine (KapvayXR).
Adults should take 0.1 mg orally before bedtime. The dose can be gradually increased by 0.1 mg every week until your doctor has determined what the daily maximum dose is.
Clonidine has been found to be effective in improving the quality of sleep as a frequent side effect of stimulant drugs. It's also useful for reducing the side effects of stimulants like anxiety, jitteriness, and tics. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that behavioral strategies be tested prior to prescribing medication for insomnia.
Clonidine is recognized to interact with a variety of other medications, such as antipsychotics and sedatives. It may also increase the risk of having seizures in certain individuals. Clonidine use can also raise your blood pressure and heart rate, so it's important to inform your doctor whether you're taking other medications or have any medical history. It's also important to taper the dose when discontinuing clonidine as abrupt withdrawal may cause high blood pressure, headache tension in the chest, nervousness, and other symptoms.