The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Most ADHD medications are classified into two categories: stimulants and nonstimulants. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Provigil) and amphetamines function by enhancing the activity of parts of the brain responsible for the behaviour and attention.
Nonstimulants, such as atomoxetine (Strattera), guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay), work slower than stimulants but can help increase focus, concentration and impulsivity. They also seem to reduce anxiety, which is often comorbid with ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
The first drug that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD is stimulant medications. However, these drugs aren't for everyone and can cause negative adverse effects on some people. Nonstimulant medications take longer to start working however they can help improve impulsiveness and attention for certain adults. ADHD is best treated by a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication in 70-80% range. Medication is only one part of treatment, though: many people discover that lifestyle changes and skills training can also aid. It is essential to inform your doctor about any problems or side effects from the medication to allow them to alter your dosage if necessary.
There are two types of stimulant medications: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are the most common medications for ADD/ADHD. They're available in various strengths and forms, like chewable tablets, liquid, or capsules. The majority of adults and children are safe to take them, but those suffering from glaucoma, advanced arteriosclerosis or heart disease symptoms, or who recently took monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs), should not.
Amphetamines have similar effects as methylphenidates, but they are more potent. They are less likely to cause major adverse effects and are more efficient in treating ADHD symptoms than methylphenidates. They are also more likely than methylphenidates cause addiction and abuse. This is the reason they are classified as Schedule I drugs.
Both types of stimulants can cause some undesirable side effects, such as stomach upsets, headaches anxiety, jitters, and loss of appetite. Most of these side effects are minor and last only a few weeks.
Nonstimulant medication
Nonstimulant medications for ADHD take longer to begin working than stimulants and may not be as effective, however they can help improve attention and irritation. They function by increasing the levels of brain chemicals that aid in controlling emotions and focus attention. There are adhd medication online of these drugs and some doctors even prescribe them along with stimulants for the best results.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI that boosts levels of norepinephrine, a chemical in the brain that helps reduce inattention and impulsiveness. It took a long time for it to be approved by the FDA for treating ADHD however, it's been shown to be helpful in adults. Guanfacine is also known as Intuniv, is a blood-pressure medication that increases the levels of norepinephrine and reducing the impulsivity. It takes a bit longer to work than methylphenidate and amphetamines. It also has a stronger "no-fly effect" on the brain. Other medicines that increase norepinephrine levels include Zyban/Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). The FDA has not approved these drugs to treat ADHD. However, they may help some people. In addition, antidepressants are sometimes used to treat ADHD due to the fact that they can increase the levels of certain brain chemicals that influence mood and behavior.