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 enhancing the activity of parts of the brain that regulate the behaviour and attention.
Nonstimulants such as guanfacine, the atomoxetine and clonidine are slower than stimulants, however they can help improve focus and attention as well as impulsivity. They also seem to reduce anxiety, which is often comorbid 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 bad side effects in some people. Nonstimulant medications take longer to effect however they can improve attention span or the impulsiveness of certain adults. ADHD is best treated using a a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from medication in a 70-80% range. Treatment is only one component of treatment, however: many people discover that lifestyle changes and training also help. It is important to inform your doctor about any problems or side effects from the medication so that they can modify your dosage as needed.
Amphétamines and methylphenidates are stimulant medicines. Methylphenidates is the most popular treatment for ADD/ADHD. These medications are available in a variety of strengths forms, dosages, and forms comprising chewable liquid, tablet, and capsule. They're generally regarded as safe for most adults and children. However, they shouldn't be used by those suffering from arteriosclerosis or glaucoma that is advanced or with symptomatic heart disease or who have recently taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Amphetamines exhibit similar effects like methylphenidates, but are more powerful. They are less likely to cause serious adverse effects and are more effective in treating ADHD symptoms than methylphenidates. They're also more likely to lead to addiction and abuse, so they're classified as Schedule I drugs.
Both types of stimulants may cause undesirable adverse effects, such as headaches, stomach upsets, anxiety and jitters. However, the majority of these aren't severe and last for longer than a couple of weeks.
Nonstimulant medications
Nonstimulant ADHD medications take longer to work than stimulants. adult adhd medication uk however they can improve irritability and inattention. They help by increasing brain chemicals that control emotions and focusing the attention. There are many kinds of these medications and some doctors might prescribe them along with stimulants to maximize the benefits of both treatments.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI, increases the levels of norepinephrine in the brain, which reduces the tendency to be impulsive and inattention. It took a long time for it to be approved by the FDA for treating ADHD however it has been proven to be effective for adults. Guanfacine (Intuniv) is a blood pressure medication that also helps by increasing levels of norepinephrine, and reducing the amount of impulsivity. It takes a bit longer to work than methylphenidate and amphetamines. It also has a greater "no-fly effect" on the brain. Other medications that increase norepinephrine levels are Wellbutrin/Zyban (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). The FDA has not approved these drugs for treating ADHD. However they could be beneficial to some people. Antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD as they increase the levels of brain chemicals that influence the way we behave and mood.