The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
A combination of education, medication and skills training is the most common treatment for ADHD for adults. Medication helps to improve concentration, focus and reduce impulsive behaviour.
The effects of stimulants increase the levels of certain brain chemicals. Dopamine and norepinephrine comprise two of them. They are controlled substances. Patients with glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis should not use them.
Stimulants
The most common ADHD medication for adults is a kind of drug called psychostimulant. It works by increasing certain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. This helps to control impulses and improve the ability to focus. The majority of doctors recommend stimulants as the first treatment. They may not be appropriate for everyone as they can trigger serious side effects, such as insomnia or jitters.
Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication for children and adults. It's available as tablets that release immediately (small doses that are taken between 2 and 3 times per day) and modified-release tablets that are taken once in the morning with the dose being released throughout the day. Methylphenidate could cause a slight increase in heartbeat. This can be managed by taking a low dose antidepressant known as bupropion, also called Wellbutrin.
Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera is a different stimulant medication that can be employed to treat ADHD. It increases the levels of norepinephrine inside the brain, a chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells. This can help focus the mind and reduce the tendency to be impulsive. It's also sometimes given to those suffering from anxiety disorders that have coexisting ADHD symptoms.
It is important to keep in mind that medication doesn't cure ADHD and only help to manage it. It may take some time to determine the best medication and dose to control your symptoms with the fewest adverse side consequences. Your doctor may suggest several different dosages and medications to see which one is the most effective for you.
Nonstimulants
If stimulants do not work for you or cause adverse effects, your doctor may prescribe nonstimulant medications to control your ADHD. There are many kinds of nonstimulant medicines such as those specifically designed to treat ADHD and those that help lower blood pressure. These medications can be prescribed by doctors as a supplement to stimulants, or they could be prescribed alone.
Medications in this group include the guanfacine (Intuniv) and Clonidine (Kapvay). These medications belong to a class of drugs called alpha-2 agonists. They slow down the nervous system by blocking receptors. These medications are beneficial to those who suffer from tics. Tics are rapid, repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or a throat clearing. Guanfacine or clonidine may also be used to treat anxiety and depression in adults suffering from ADHD.
Some of the side effects of these drugs could include stomach upset, headaches and an increased heart rate. Some adults, particularly those who have cardiovascular issues might be concerned about the increased heart rate. These medicines can also cause an appetite reduction. These medications can also slow down growth in children. This doesn't affect the final height.
Discuss with your doctor any concerns or questions you have about the medication. how to get adhd medication uk can always ask your physician to change the dose or switch medications if required. Inform your doctor if have any other health problems, as some medications may interact with them. If you suffer from chronic illnesses like asthma or high blood pressure, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.