The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
The majority of medications used to treat ADHD fall into two categories: stimulants and nonstimulants. The stimulants like methylphenidate (Provigil) and amphetamines work by increasing the activity in areas of the brain that control the behaviour and attention.
Nonstimulants such as guanfacine, the atomoxetine and clonidine perform slower than stimulants however they can help improve focus and attention as well as impulsivity. They also appear to reduce anxiety, which is frequently associated with ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
The use of stimulants is usually the first choice for doctors when it comes to treating ADHD but they don't work well for everyone and may cause adverse side effects in certain people. Nonstimulant medications take longer to begin to work, but they can improve impulsiveness and attention for some adults. ADHD is best treated by the combination of therapy and medication.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication in 70-80% range. They are just one part of the treatment. Many people also discover that lifestyle changes and training help. It is essential to inform your doctor about any problems or side effects you have 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. The majority of adults and children are safe to take them. However, those with glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis or heart disease symptoms, or who have recently taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs), should not.
Amphetamines have a lot in common with methylphenidates, however they're more powerful. They're less likely to cause severe side effects, and they're more effective than methylphenidates at reducing symptoms of ADHD. They are 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 like stomach upsets, headaches, jitters and difficulty sleeping. The majority of these side effects are minor and last for a few weeks.
Nonstimulant drugs
Nonstimulant ADHD medications take longer to work than stimulants. They might not be as effective however, they can improve inattention and reduce irritability. non prescription adhd medication uk work by increasing levels of brain chemicals that help manage emotions and focus attention. There are several kinds of these drugs and some doctors prescribe them in conjunction with a stimulant to maximize the benefits of both treatments.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI, increases the levels of norepinephrine in the brain to reduce the tendency to be impulsive and inattention. It took a long time to be approved by the FDA for treating ADHD however, it's been proven to be effective for adults. Guanfacine (Intuniv) is a blood pressure medicine that also helps by increasing levels of norepinephrine while reducing the impulsiveness. It's a little slower to start working than amphetamines or methylphenidate, and it has a stronger "no-fly" effect on the brain. Other medicines that increase norepinephrine levels include Wellbutrin/Zyban (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). They aren't approved by FDA to treat ADHD, but they can help some people with this disorder. Antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD, as they can increase the levels of brain chemicals that affect the mood and behavior.