Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
Many adult ADHD treatment plans are based on medications. But finding the right medication and dosage isn't always easy.
Stimulants:
These medicines are used to treat hyperactivity and inattention. They work by increasing levels of the chemicals that transmit messages between nerve cells. They are usually taken several times a day and can be effective in less than an hour.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the first medications that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. These drugs work by increasing activity in specific brain areas that regulate attention and impulses. They also enhance the way that the brain communicates between nerve cells. These effects can improve the ability of people to focus and follow directions, as well as be comfortable with others.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which comes in tablet form and includes brands such as Adderall, Ritalin and its generic counterparts. Doctors can also prescribe a short-acting form that dissolves rapidly in the mouth. Methylphenidate works quickly and lasts for a short period of time, which means that people have to take it multiple times per day.
Atomoxetine is a newer drug that is part of a group of drugs known as selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It is a drug that has FDA approval for adults and children older than 5 years. It increases the levels of noradrenaline in the brain, which improves concentration and reduces impulsive behavior. Atomoxetine can be found in capsules and is typically taken one or twice daily.
Some antidepressants can also be used to treat ADHD, especially bupropion, which has been approved for use in adults. Antidepressants are slower than stimulants, however they can improve symptoms for some adults who are unable to take the adverse effects of stimulants.
In addition to these drugs doctors may also recommend counseling or other behavioral treatments to treat the symptoms of ADHD. These therapy options can assist people in learning to manage their behavior and improve their relationships. They can also help create strategies to cope with ADHD.
Untreated ADHD can cause major problems at school, at work and at home. They may have difficulty keeping up with the demands of their academics. They may also experience more frequent job loss or turnover and are more troubled in their relationships with spouses and other intimate relationships than people who don't have the disorder. They also have a higher risk of consuming click here alcohol and mental health disorders, like depression and anxiety (Kessler et al 2007).
A person suffering from ADHD should discuss with their healthcare provider the best treatment options. The doctor can assess the severity of symptoms as well as how they impact daily activities and the impact the symptoms affect school or work performance. The doctor can then prescribe the correct dosage and medication for the individual.
It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications your child or you takes, even over-the-counter medications and supplements. The doctor must be aware of any interact with any of the ADHD medications.
A doctor can provide information on the various ADHD medications and how they affect the body. They can also give advice on lifestyle changes that might help alleviate symptoms and make it easier to follow an appropriate treatment program. It may take time to find the right dosage, medication and schedule for each person. But with patience and careful monitoring, ADHD medications can help people live more productive lives.