Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults Strategies From The Top In The Industry
The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually prescribed stimulants. They help regulate levels of two chemical messages within the brain which control the attention.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is the most effective adhd medication available for adults. It is available in a capsule that can either be taken with food or without food. It is effective for a majority of people. It lasts longer than more sedatives, like amphetamine and methylphenidate.
1. Strattera
Strattera (atomoxetine) is a non-stimulant ADHD drug, functions differently from stimulant medications such as Adderall. It affects brain chemicals that regulate impulse control, attention and behavior. Strattera is effective for a majority of people, but the individual response can be different. The effectiveness of the medication is dependent on your symptoms, and other factors like your overall health and genetics.
Stimulants, including Ritalin and Vyvanse release amphetamine methylphenidate into your body quickly, which increases focus and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs can have side effects, such as trouble sleeping and an increased risk of seizures and heart issues, as well as tics, or abrupt movements and sounds, such as throat clearing. Stimulant drugs may also worsen tics in adults who have Tourette's syndrome. Strattera is a great option for people with ADHD who want to avoid stimulant drugs or who are unable to tolerate their side effects.
The most common dose of Strattera, 40 milligrams once each day in the morning. The doctor may recommend lower doses or two divided doses. You should not exceed 80 mg per dose. Some studies show that taking the medication in the morning can be more effective than in the evening.
Strattera has the benefit of not being a controlled substance. This makes it more secure than other ADHD medications. It's not a perfect fit for everyone so your doctor may recommend other medications first before recommending Strattera. It is recommended to inform your doctor about any negative or positive changes in your mood, thoughts, or behaviors while you are taking Strattera. The FDA warns the drug may increase your risk of suicide, especially when you first begin treatment and your dose is altered.
2. Qelbree
Qelbree is a brand-name medicine that doctors prescribe to adults with ADHD. It belongs to a class of medications known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. In a research study that was funded by the manufacturer, Supernus Pharmaceuticals, researchers found that during a six-week study, the drug reduced ADHD symptoms in some adults. It also improved performance and decreased the amount of impulsivity among some patients.
The medication can also assist with depression and bipolar disorders. It's important to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and goals prior to starting the medication. Your doctor can also suggest therapy, which can be added to medication to improve the overall outcome of your treatment.
The stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin are usually considered first-choice for people with ADHD however, they might not work well for all. Those who cannot tolerate stimulants or experience other side effects can benefit from non-stimulant drugs such as Qelbree and Strattera.
Nonstimulant drugs in contrast to stimulants that could result in dependence and abuse they do not affect the parts of the brain that are responsible for attention, nor do they increase the levels of natural brain chemicals. They also can reduce symptoms without the anxiety, headaches stomachaches, insomnia, and weight loss that are associated with stimulant use.
Although the doctors aren't quite sure how Qelbree affects the brain, they believe it increases the amount of norepinephrine available and decreases dopamine. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that helps control impulses and concentration.
Qelbree is a drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration for adults and children aged 6 years or older. It is a pill or oral capsule that can be taken once every day at a dose that is initially low and can be increased.
3. Bupropion
In addition to psychosocial treatment doctors frequently prescribe medication to treat ADHD. The most popular first-line or gold standard, medications are stimulant drugs. They ease symptoms and aid people function better at work, school 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 recommend specific brands of medication and offer regular check-ups to make sure they're working well.
Doctors can also prescribe nonstimulant medication. These drugs don't have the same effects as stimulants and are safer for people with heart problems. They can decrease impulsivity, improve concentration and focus.
Bupropion (also called Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant that is used to treat ADHD. It increases levels of the chemical messenger dopamine and slightly increases levels of norepinephrine, which can help reduce stress and improve their control over impulses. Doctors can prescribe it either as an immediate-release or extended-release tablet. The tablet with immediate release is more effective. The extended-release tablet is slower and lasts longer.
Tell your doctor if have previously taken any other medication, including over-the counter supplements and drugs. Certain medications, such as Guanfacine and clonidine may interact with the medication.
If you have a co-morbidity your doctor might suggest alternative options for medication, such as an SSRI or an SNRI. Both were designed to treat anxiety and depression. They can also reduce ADHD symptoms by reducing impulsivity and improving mood, focus and attention.
Doctors can also refer patients for psychotherapy, like CBT (cognitive behavior therapy). CBT is a type of therapy that's proven to be helpful for those suffering from ADHD. It teaches people who have ADHD new ways to think and behave. It can help improve family and social lives.
4. Guanfacine
Guanfacine works in a completely different way than stimulants. It decreases activity in specific areas of the brain to regulate impulse-driven behavior. It is available in the form of a guanfacine tablet (Tenex) or an extended-release tablet under the brand name Intuniv. It could take several weeks to feel the full impact of the drug. Doctors typically begin patients on a lower dosage and increase it gradually.
It is not clear what the effects of guanfacine are on ADHD however, it could result in a decrease in norepinephrine production in certain areas of the brain that regulate impulsivity and attention. It is also believed to lower blood pressure. In a study of eight weeks Guanfacine was found to reduce ADHD symptoms when compared to placebo. This improvement was not as significant as the results 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. It can also be employed when the patient is aged between the six and 17 years, or when a medical condition makes it unsafe to take stimulants.
Stimulants can boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine that are found in the brain. They can help improve concentration, focus and impulsiveness. Nonstimulant medications, such as bupropion and atomoxetine, reduce the speed at which the brain absorbs these neurotransmitters. They can be used as part of a treatment plan that includes the use of behavioral therapy.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain areas of the brain, which improves concentration and impulsiveness. It also increases focus and can be given to adults and teenagers if at least 6 weeks of treatment with methylphenidate has not helped their symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine should be the first treatment option for children who are older than 5 years old with ADHD. However it can also be prescribed to adults and teenagers who have not seen improvement in their symptoms after six weeks of treatment.
5. Clonidine
Clonidine is part of a group of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic antagonists. These medications increase blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels. Clonidine may also reduce diarrhea.
Initially it was approved by the FDA to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is now used to treat many conditions and symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Clonidine can also aid those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.
The doctor could prescribe it as a patch or tablet. It is typically used in conjunction with other ADHD medication. It is crucial to take this medication according to the instructions otherwise it won't work. Clonidine comes in two forms: the brand name Kapvay, and the generic version clonidine (KapvayXR).
The dosage for adults is 0.1 mg taken orally prior to bedtime. The dosage can be increased by increments of 0.1 mg at weekly intervals until your physician determines the dose that is the most effective for you.
Clonidine has been shown to be effective in improving sleep quality which is a common side effect of stimulant medications. Clonidine also helps in reducing the negative effects of stimulants like jitteriness, aggression, and tics. However, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends trying behavioral strategies for insomnia prior to prescribing medications.
Clonidine is known to interact with several other medications, including antipsychotics and sedatives. It may also increase the risk of seizure in certain people. Clonidine may also raise your heart rate and blood pressure and heart rate, so it is important to let your doctor know about any medications you take or if there is a medical history. It is also essential to taper off clonidine gradually and gradually, since abrupt withdrawal could cause headaches, high pressure and chest tightness, as well as anxiety.