The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
The majority of the drugs used to treat ADHD are classified into two categories: stimulants and nonstimulants. The stimulants like methylphenidate (Provigil) and amphetamines act by increasing the activity in areas of the brain that control the behavior and attention.
Nonstimulants such as guanfacine, atomoxetine, and clonidine, perform slower than stimulants but they help improve concentration and attention as well as impulsivity. They also appear to decrease anxiety which is often a comorbidity of ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
The first medication that doctors use to treat ADHD is stimulant medications. However, these medications do not work for everyone, and can cause negative side effects for some people. Nonstimulant medication takes longer to effect but can improve inattention or the impulsiveness of certain adults. A combination of medications and behavioral therapy is typically the best approach to treat ADHD.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from medication in 70-80% of the range. Treatment is only one component of treatment, but many people find that lifestyle changes and skills training can also aid. It is important to inform your doctor about any concerns or side effects from the medication to allow them to alter your dosage if necessary.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are stimulant medicines. Methylphenidates is the most common ADD/ADHD medicine. They're available in various strengths and forms, like chewable tablets, liquids, or capsules. They're generally considered safe for adults and children. However, they shouldn't be consumed by people who have arteriosclerosis that is advanced, glaucoma or with symptomatic heart disease or who have recently taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs).
Amphetamines have similar effects as methylphenidates, but they are more potent. They are less likely to cause severe adverse effects and are more efficient in treating ADHD symptoms than methylphenidates. They're also more likely to cause addiction and abuse, hence they're classified as Schedule I drugs.
Both types of stimulants may cause undesirable side effects such as stomach upsets, headaches, anxiety and jitters. The majority of these side effects are minor and last for a few weeks.
Nonstimulant medicine
Nonstimulant ADHD medications take longer to work than stimulants. adhd otc medication might not be as effective however they can improve inattention and reduce irritability. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals that aid in controlling emotions and help focus attention. There are several kinds of these medicines and some doctors prescribe them along with stimulants to maximize the benefits of both treatments.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI which increases the levels of norepinephrine in the brain to reduce the tendency to be impulsive and inattention. FDA approval took a long time but the drug has been proved to be effective in treating ADHD. Guanfacine (Intuniv) is a blood pressure medicine that also helps by increasing levels of norepinephrine while reducing the impulsiveness. It takes a little longer to take effect than methylphenidate and amphetamines. It also has a more "no-fly effect" on the brain. Wellbutrin/Zyban, (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are other drugs that boost the level of norepinephrine. The FDA has not approved these medications to treat ADHD. However, they may help some people. Antidepressants can also be used to treat ADHD because they increase the levels of brain chemicals that influence the mood and behavior.