How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The most frequently prescribed medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the brain to improve concentration and decrease impulsive behavior.
You can purchase them as liquid or long-acting capsules, or tablets with immediate release (like Dynavel XR). Long-acting stimulants are less likely to be abused.
Stimulants
The first medication doctors prescribe to people suffering from ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine that help people focus and manage their impulses. Doctors often recommend these medications as a combination treatment with psychosocial interventions like counseling and training in skills.
Certain people suffering from ADHD find that they need to take medication for life. The right dosage and the right medication can help alleviate symptoms and aid in helping a person succeed at work and in their relationships. However the effects of medication are not always permanent if you stop using them or have health issues of your own.
There are many medications that can be prescribed to treat ADHD. It could take time for your doctor and you to find one that works best for you. The medication does not cure ADHD but it can control the symptoms and make them less noticeable to allow you to function better at work and at home. You may also have to test different doses of each medication before you find the one that performs the most effectively and has the least adverse negative effects.
Methylphenidate, also known as Adderall is the most frequently prescribed medication to treat ADHD for children and adults. It is a fast-acting medication that improves concentration and control of impulses however it does not cause addiction or dependency. Other stimulants include amphetamines, which have a more powerful effect and last longer than methylphenidate but they can increase blood pressure and heart rate and should be used with caution by those suffering from heart disease.
adhd medication ritalin are available in chewable tablets, liquids and immediate-release tablets. You can also select extended-release formulas that last for as long as 8 hours and are preferred by doctors for adults. These long-acting medicines are usually the most effective since they give you the benefits of the medication throughout your day.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants do not work or cause unpleasant adverse effects, your doctor may suggest nonstimulant drugs to treat your ADHD. These medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) are less effective than stimulants, yet they can aid in improving your ability to focus and control your emotions. They can also help you behave in a manner that is appropriate. These medications can be prescribed to people with ADHD and depression or anxiety as an add-on treatment for stimulants.
Symptoms of some nonstimulant medicines can include loss of appetite, weight changes, trouble sleeping dry mouth, dizziness and changes in the sex drive. The sex-drive changes might be temporary, but they can be bothersome for some people. Tell your doctor if you have any of these side effects. These medications might not be effective for everyone suffering from ADHD So, you must continue with other treatments until you discover the ones that work for you. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example can help you learn how to manage your symptoms. CBT can be performed in a group or with a qualified therapist. Other treatments that might help are diet and sleep schedules, exercise and healthy eating. You can also seek psychotherapy or any other medical treatments if your symptoms are severe or negatively impact your quality of life.
