The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Most of the medications used to treat ADHD are classified into two categories: nonstimulants and stimulants. Stimulants like methylphenidate (Provigil) and amphetamines act by increasing the activity in areas of the brain that regulate attention and behaviour.
Nonstimulants such as guanfacine, the atomoxetine and clonidine work slower than stimulants, but they help improve focus, attention, and impulsivity. They also appear to decrease anxiety, which is often associated with ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications are often the first choice for doctors when it comes to treating ADHD however they aren't suitable for everyone and may cause bad side effects in some people. Nonstimulant medications take longer time to start working however they can help improve inattention and impulsiveness for certain adults. A combination of medications and behavioral therapy is usually the best method to treat ADHD.
The use of medication is 70%-80% effective in treating ADHD in adults. Treatment is only one component of treatment, however: many people discover that lifestyle changes and training also help. It is essential to inform your doctor about any issues or side effects from the medication so that they can modify your dosage as needed.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are stimulant medications. Methylphenidates is the most common medication for ADD/ADHD. These medicines are available in various strengths and forms, as well as dosages comprising chewable liquid, tablet and capsule. They're generally regarded as safe for most adults and children. However, adhd medication adults uk shouldn't be taken by people who have arteriosclerosis or glaucoma that is advanced or symptomatic heart disease, or who have recently taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Amphetamines exhibit similar effects like methylphenidates, but are more potent. They are less likely to cause serious adverse effects and are more effective in treating ADHD symptoms than methylphenidates. They're also more likely than methylphenidates cause addiction and abuse. This is the reason they are classified as Schedule I drugs.
The stimulants of both kinds can cause undesirable side effects such as headaches, stomach upsets, jitters and difficulty sleeping. Most of these side effects are mild and last for a few weeks.
Nonstimulant drugs
Nonstimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants, and may not be as effective, however they can help improve attention and anger. They work by increasing the amount of brain chemicals that control emotions and focusing the attention. There are a variety of these medications, and some doctors prescribe them in conjunction with stimulants to achieve the best results.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI that boosts levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine to reduce inattention and impulsiveness. It took a long time to be approved by the FDA for treating ADHD however it has been proven to be effective for adults. Guanfacine is also known as Intuniv, is a blood-pressure medicine that is effective by boosting the levels of norepinephrine and reducing the impulsivity. It takes a little longer to work than methylphenidate and amphetamines. It also has a greater "no-fly effect" on the brain. Wellbutrin/Zyban, (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are other medications that can increase the norepinephrine level. They aren't approved by FDA to treat ADHD however they could aid some people suffering from this disorder. Antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD, as they can increase the levels of brain chemicals that impact the mood and behavior.