How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The most common medication prescribed by healthcare providers to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior.
They're available as immediate-release tablets or long-acting liquid capsules (like Dynavel XR). Long-acting stimulants are less likely to be abused.
Stimulants
The first medication that doctors prescribe to people suffering from ADHD is stimulants. They increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, helping individuals control their impulses and focus. Doctors often recommend these drugs as a combination treatment with psychosocial interventions, such as counseling and skills training.
Some people with ADHD require medication their entire life. The right medication and dosage can help alleviate symptoms and aid in helping individuals succeed at work and in their relationships. However, the effects of medications can wear off if you stop using them or have health issues of your own.
There are a myriad of medications available to treat ADHD and it might take some time for you and your physician to determine which ones are most effective for you. Medication does not cure ADHD but it can manage the symptoms and make them less apparent so that you can perform better at home and at work. You may have to try several different doses before you discover the one that works best and has less adverse effects.
Methylphenidate, also referred to as Adderall is the most frequently prescribed medication to treat ADHD in children and adults. It works quickly to improve the ability to focus and control impulses. However, it does not cause addiction or dependency. Amphetamines are another stimulant that has a more powerful and longer lasting effect than methylphenidate. However, they may increase blood-pressure and heart rate and heart issues should use them cautiously.
Both stimulants are available as chewable tablets, liquids, and tablets that release immediately. You can also select extended-release formulas that last for as long as 8 hours and are preferred by doctors for adults. These medications that last longer are typically the most effective since they allow you to enjoy the benefits of the drug throughout the day.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants don't work or have undesirable side effects, doctors may suggest nonstimulant drugs to treat your ADHD. These medications, like atomoxetine (Strattera) and bupropion (Wellbutrin), work slower than stimulants, but they can aid in improving your ability to pay attention, control your emotions and behave in a way that is acceptable. These drugs are available to those suffering from ADHD and anxiety or depression as an addition treatment to stimulants.
Symptoms of some nonstimulant medicines can include loss of appetite, changes in weight, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, dry mouth, and changes in sexual drive. I Am Psychiatry -drive changes might be temporary, but they may be a problem for some. You should inform your doctor about any of these side effects that you have. These medicines might not be effective for everyone suffering from ADHD, so you should continue to try other methods until you find ones that do work for you. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can teach you strategies that will help you manage your symptoms. CBT can be conducted in a group or with a therapist who is trained. Sleep schedules, diet and healthy eating are all viable treatments. If your symptoms are severe and impact your quality of life, you may seek out psychological or medical treatment.