How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults
The most frequently prescribed medication by health professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost the levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and other neurotransmitters inside 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 have lower potential for misuse.
Stimulants
The first medication doctors prescribe to people suffering from ADHD is stimulants. They boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine which aid in focusing and manage their impulses. These drugs are often used in conjunction with psychosocial interventions such as counseling and training in skills.
Certain people suffering from ADHD discover that they require to take a medication for the rest of their lives. The right medication can help improve symptoms and enhance a person's success at work and in their relationships. However, the effects of medications are not always permanent if you stop using them or suffer from other health issues.
There are a variety of drugs available to treat ADHD and it may take some time for you and your physician to determine which ones work best for you. The medication is not able to cure ADHD but it can manage symptoms and make them less noticeable so that you can to function more effectively at work and at home. You may also need to test different doses of each medication before you find the one that works best and has the smallest adverse consequences.
adhd medication list Iampsychiatry , also referred to as Adderall, is the most frequently prescribed medication for treating ADHD for children and adults. It is a fast-acting medication that helps improve attention and control impulses. However, it will not lead to dependence or addiction. Other stimulants include amphetamines which have a more powerful effect and last longer than methylphenidate however, they can raise heart rate and blood pressure and should be used with caution by people with heart problems.
Both stimulants are available in liquids, chewable tablets and tablets that release immediately. You can also select extended-release formulations, which last for up to 8 hours and are favored by doctors for adults. These long-acting medicines are usually the most effective because they provide you with the benefits of the medication throughout the day.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants aren't effective or cause unpleasant adverse effects, your doctor may suggest nonstimulant medication to treat your ADHD. These medications, like bupropion and atomoxetine, operate more slowly than stimulants, but can enhance your ability to concentrate, control your emotions, and behave accordingly. These drugs can be prescribed to patients suffering from ADHD and depression or anxiety as an addition treatment to stimulants.
Symptoms of some nonstimulant medicines can include changes in weight, difficulty sleeping dry mouth, dizziness and changes in the sex drive. Some individuals may find the changes in sex drive to be temporary, but nevertheless, they can be a nuisance. You should tell your doctor about any adverse effects you experience. These medicines might not work for everyone with ADHD, so you should keep trying different treatments until you find the ones that do work for you. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, can teach you how to manage your symptoms. It is possible to do CBT with a qualified therapist individually or in groups. Other treatments that can help are diet routines, exercise schedules, sleep schedules and eating healthy. If your symptoms are severe and affect your quality of life, you may seek medical or psychological treatment.