Ten Pinterest Accounts To Follow About Best ADHD Medication For Adults
How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamine function by increasing and balancing brain chemicals. Doctors prescribe them in the form of pills, liquids or patches.
Healthcare professionals also take drugs known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors and alpha-2 agonists to treat ADHD. These medications are typically used "off-label", since they are FDA-approved for a variety of conditions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications. They boost the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and d-opamine, which helps to improve focus and control your impulses. Doctors typically prescribe stimulants for adults with ADHD however, they can also use them to treat related conditions like anxiety and depression. These are controlled substances, as they can cause dependence. They should be used under the supervision of a medical professional. The use of stimulants can help those with ADHD manage their symptoms quickly but they cannot cure the condition. They can also cause side effects such as heart palpitations and trouble sleeping.
There are many stimulant medications that doctors can prescribe to adults with ADHD. The majority of stimulant drugs fall into two main categories: methylphenidates, and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are less likely to cause side effects and addiction than amphetamines. The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting varieties. Short-acting stimulants work within 30 minutes and last for 3-4 hours. Long-acting and intermediate medications take between 6 and 16 hours to reach their maximum effectiveness. Long-acting drugs may be recommended by medical professionals for patients who have trouble remembering to take their medication on a regular basis.
Some adults may not respond to stimulants, and healthcare professionals will likely look into nonstimulant drugs first. The FDA has approved four nonstimulant medications for adults suffering from ADHD including atomoxetine (guanfacine), viloxazine and guanfacine as well as Clonidine. These drugs are less effective than stimulants in treating the impulsive behavior, but they can be extremely beneficial in treating specific primary ADHD symptoms.
does adhd medication work may be paired with other treatments, such as environmental therapy and behavioral therapy, to optimize their effectiveness. For instance, therapists can instruct parents and families on strategies to help their children suffering from ADHD and give them the necessary skills to manage their symptoms.
The most effective ADHD medication for adults is typically the one that can control their symptoms the most effectively and has less adverse negative effects. It's an experiment of trial and error to discover the best dosage, drug, and time of day to take it for best results. People suffering from ADHD should also think about changes in their lifestyle to ensure results, such as getting enough sleep and avoiding caffeine.
Symptoms of ADHD tend to change throughout a person's life, so people with ADHD must see their physician regularly for monitoring and adjustment of their medications. Doctors should schedule monthly appointments with patients who have been diagnosed with ADHD or are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms, and then every 3 to six months until symptoms and functioning are controlled. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that all adults suffering from untreated ADHD seek medical treatment for the disorder. The use of medications can greatly improve the lives of adults who suffer from the condition and can lead to better relationships, jobs, and health outcomes. The AAP recommends that those suffering from ADHD should not stop taking their medication before talking to a doctor about the potential risks and benefits of stopping or starting the medication. The AAP advises that this can be a difficult choice and suggests that a mental health professional or pediatrician with experience in the field of ADHD conduct a thorough examination.