The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults suffering from ADHD are typically prescribed stimulants. They regulate the levels of two chemical signals in the brain which control the attention.
The most effective medication for adhd for adults is Strattera (atomoxetine). It is available in a capsule that can either be taken with food or without food. Most people find it effective. It lasts longer than stimulants with an action time that is shorter like amphetamine and methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD medication, which means it is different from stimulant medications like Adderall. It affects brain chemicals that regulate the ability to control impulses, attention, and behavior. Strattera is effective for most people, however, the results for each individual may differ. The effectiveness of the medication is dependent on the symptoms you experience, and other factors, such as general health and genetics.
Stimulants, such as Ritalin and Vyvanse, release the amphetamine methylphenidate within your body quickly, which enhances concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulse control. These drugs can cause adverse effects, such as trouble sleeping, an increased risk of having seizures and heart problems, as well as the tics, or sudden movements and sounds, such as throat clearing. These drugs can also increase the tics of adults suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Strattera can be a good choice for adults with ADHD that want to avoid stimulant medication or cannot tolerate its adverse effects.
The most popular dose of Strattera, 40 milligrams once every day in the morning. Doctors can start you on a lower dose or suggest two divided doses. It is recommended not to exceed 80 mg per dose. Certain studies have proven that taking the medication first thing in the morning is more efficient than taking it at night.
Strattera has the benefit of not being controlled substances. This makes it safer than other ADHD medication. However, it's not suitable for everyone, so your doctor might try other medications prior to recommending this one. Talk to your doctor if notice any changes in your mood or behavior after taking Strattera. The FDA warns the drug may increase the risk of suicide, especially when you first begin treatment and your dose is changed.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree (viloxazine extended-release) is a brand name drug that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD in adults. It belongs to the class of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. In a research study that was funded by the manufacturer Supernus Pharmaceuticals, researchers found that in a six-week trial the drug reduced ADHD symptoms for some adults. It also improved performance in certain patients and reduced impulsivity.
In addition to helping with hyperactivity and inattention The medication can also help those suffering from bipolar disorder and depression. It is essential to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and goals before taking it. Your doctor might also suggest therapy that can be combined with medication to enhance the overall results of your treatment.
Adderall, Ritalin and other stimulant drugs are typically the first choice for those with ADHD. However, they may not be suitable for everyone. Nonstimulant medicines like Qelbree or Strattera are suitable for people who are not able to take stimulants or have side effects.
Nonstimulant medicines in contrast to stimulants that could cause dependence and abuse they do not affect the brain areas that are responsible for attention, nor do they increase the levels of the natural brain chemicals. They can also reduce symptoms without the jitters and headaches and stomachaches, insomnia, and weight loss associated with stimulant use.
Although doctors aren't sure how Qelbree affects the brain, they believe it increases the quantity of norepinephrine in the brain and decreases dopamine. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that assists in regulating impulses and concentration.
Qelbree has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat children and adults six years and up. It comes as an oral capsule that is taken one time every day at a dose that is initially low and can be titrated up.
3. Bupropion
In addition to psychosocial therapy doctors may prescribe medications to treat ADHD. The most effective of these medications is stimulant drugs. They alleviate symptoms and help people perform better at school, work or home. Certain people may need to try several different medicines before they find the one that is the most effective for them. Doctors can suggest specific brands of medication and provide regular follow-ups in order to ensure they're working as intended.
Doctors can also prescribe non-stimulant medication. These drugs don't have the same effects as stimulants and are safer for people suffering from heart conditions. They can help reduce impulsivity and improve concentration and focus.
Bupropion, more commonly referred to as Wellbutrin, is an antidepressant, which is also used to treat ADHD. It increases levels of dopamine, a chemical messenger, and norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter. This helps to calm people and improves impulse control. Doctors can give it in the form of an immediate-release or extended release tablet. The immediate-release tablet works quicker. The extended-release tablet works slower and lasts longer.
Inform your doctor if you have previously taken any other medication such as over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications such as clonidine or guanfacine can interact with the medication.
If you suffer from a comorbidity, your doctor may consider other medication options for you, like an SSRI or SNRI. Both drugs were originally designed to treat anxiety and depression. They also help improve ADHD symptoms by decreasing impulsivity and improving the quality of life, focus and mood.
Doctors can also refer patients to psychological therapy like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). It is a type of therapy that has been proven to help people suffering from ADHD. It helps people with ADHD new ways of thinking and behaving. It can also improve family relationships and lives.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine is completely different from stimulants. It slows down activity in certain areas of the brain to control the impulsive behavior. It is available as a guanfacine tablets (Tenex) or extended-release tablets under the brand name Intuniv. It could take a few weeks to feel the full impact of the medication. Doctors typically start patients with a low dose and gradually increase the dosage.
It isn't clear what the effects of guanfacine on ADHD, but it could be able to reduce the levels of norepinephrine in specific brain regions that control impulsivity. It is also believed to decrease blood pressure. In one eight-week study the guanfacine drug reduced ADHD symptoms when compared to placebo. This improvement was not as dramatic as those seen with stimulants, however.
This medication is usually only prescribed for ADHD when stimulants like amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are not tolerated or do not produce adequate results. This medication is sometimes prescribed for children between the age of 6-17, or when a medical condition makes stimulants unfit for use.
Stimulants regulate and boost levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, including norepinephrine and dopamine. They can aid in improving focus, concentration and impulsiveness. Nonstimulant medications, like bupropion and atomoxetine, reduce the brain's capacity to absorb these neurotransmitters. They can be used as part of the treatment plan which includes treatment for behavioral disorders.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific parts of the brain. It improves concentration, improves impulsiveness and concentration, and can be prescribed to teenagers and adults if methylphenidate treatment has not resulted in improvement of symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine should be the first choice for children older than 5 years old with ADHD. However it is also given to teens and adults whose symptoms have not improved after six weeks of treatment.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine belongs in a class of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic antagonists. These medications improve blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels. Clonidine may also reduce diarrhea.
At first, the FDA approved it to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is now used to address a variety of ailments and symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. Clonidine can also aid those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
Your doctor might prescribe it as a tablet or patch. It is often used in conjunction with other ADHD medication. It is crucial 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 (Kapvay XR).
The dose for adults is 0.1 mg taken orally prior to time of bed. The dosage can be increased in increments of 0.1 mg every week until your physician determines the dosage that is the highest daily amount.
Clonidine is effective in enhancing sleep quality. This is a common side-effect of stimulant drugs. It's also useful for lessening the adverse effects of stimulants such as aggression, jitteriness and tics. However the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends trying methods to manage insomnia prior to prescribing medications.
Clonidine is known to interact with several other medications, such as sedatives and antipsychotics. Additionally, it can increase the risk of seizure for some people. Clonidine use can also raise your blood pressure and heart rate, so it's important to let your doctor know 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 can cause high blood pressure, headache, chest tightness and nervousness among other symptoms.