Watch Out: How Best ADHD Medication For Adults Is Taking Over And What We Can Do About It
Watch Out: How Best ADHD Medication For Adults Is Taking Over And What We Can Do About It
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Finding the Best ADHD Medication For Adults
Many adult ADHD treatment plans are based on medications. But finding the right medication and dosage can be difficult.
Stimulants:
These medicines are used to treat hyperactivity and inattention. They work by increasing the levels of chemicals that send messages between nerve cell. They are taken multiple times a day and begin working in less than an hour.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the first medications that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They work by increasing activity in certain brain areas that regulate attention and impulses. They also improve how the brain communicates between nerve cell. These effects can improve the ability of people to focus, follow directions, and 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 also have a quick-acting version that dissolves quickly in the mouth (Evekeo ODT). Methylphenidate is fast-acting and lasts for a brief period of time, which means that people have to take it several times a day.
Atomoxetine is a newer drug that is part of a group of drugs called selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It is a drug that has FDA approval for children and adults older than 5 years. It raises levels of a chemical found in the brain known as noradrenaline, which helps to improve concentration and reduce the risk of having impulsive behavior. Atomoxetine comes in capsule form and is usually taken once or twice daily.
Certain antidepressants, like bupropion click here (which has been approved for adults) are able to treat ADHD. Antidepressants are slower than stimulants, but they can improve symptoms for some adults who aren't able to take the adverse effects of stimulants.
Doctors may also suggest counseling or behavioral therapy in addition to medications to treat the symptoms of ADHD. These therapies can help people manage their behavior, improve relationships and devise strategies to deal with ADHD.
Untreated ADHD can cause serious problems at school, work and at home. They may have difficulty keeping up with the demands of their studies, have higher rates of job loss or turnover and more issues in marriages and other intimate relationships than people who don't have the disorder. They also have a higher risk of consuming alcohol and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety (Kessler et al. 2007).
Anyone suffering from ADHD should discuss the best treatment options with a healthcare professional. The doctor can assess the severity of the symptoms as well as how they impact daily activities and what effect the symptoms have on school or work performance. The doctor can then recommend the correct dosage and medication for the person.
It's important that you tell your doctor about all medications, including prescription medications and supplements. The provider will need to be aware of any interact with any of the ADHD medications.
A medical professional can explain what to expect with the various ADHD medications and how they work in the body. They can also provide tips on lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms and help you follow a treatment program. It may take time to find the right dosage, dose and timetable for each individual. But with patience and constant monitoring, ADHD medication can help people have more success in their lives.