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ADHD Medication For Adults – What is the Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults? Stimulant drugs are the mainstay for ADHD treatment but they do not work for everyone. Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications can aid. Adults suffering from ADHD can take medication or patches, or liquids. They improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. Doctors often prescribe them if stimulants fail to work or cause adverse effects. 1. Strattera Strattera, the brand name of atomoxetine is an effective ADHD medication for adults. Strattera is different from stimulant medications such as Adderall that increase dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as other neurotransmitters found in the brain. Strattera reduces ADHD symptoms without doing this. It doesn't provide energy or cause your heart rate to increase and can help you control impulsive behavior without increasing anxiety or jitteriness, according to Dr. Zishan Khan, a Texas-based psychiatrist and regional medical director at Mindpath Health. He says that atomoxetine can also a great option for those with specific medical reasons to avoid stimulants, for example, a history of seizures or glaucoma that is not properly controlled, or those concerned about substance abuse issues. Doctors define Strattera as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, an antidepressant medication that affects the brain by changing its use of norepinephrine. It's typically prescribed for depression, but can treat ADHD too, and may be particularly helpful for people with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety, notes Dr. Zand. It's usually prescribed in smaller doses initially and then gradually increased according to the individual's weight and age. The most frequent side effects are drowsiness, nausea and appetite changes. Strattera can interact with a variety of medications, including stimulants, and should not be taken with clonidine or other medications that inhibit monoamine oxidase. It takes longer for it to work and can last for up to 24 hours. Doctors may recommend combining Strattera and stimulants to increase the effects. For example, adding Adderall to Ritalin. This isn't a common practice and should be done under the guidance of a medical professional. Additionally, the FDA has a black-box warning on Strattera indicating that it can cause serious and life-threatening liver problems in a few people. 2. Methylphenidate Methlphenidate is part of a class of drugs referred to as central nerve stimulants. It is also used to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and frequent periods of sleep. Methlphenidate is a drug that alters the amount of certain natural substances in your brain. It is only available by prescription. Stimulants can boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. Many people suffering from ADHD choose them as their first option. However, they can have adverse effects, such as insomnia, stomach upset and problems with concentration. Talk to your doctor about the side effects that you are experiencing. If the side effects are severe your doctor may suggest that you take an alternative medication. If you or your child is taking methylphenidate it is essential to inform your doctor about any other medicines you are taking. Some medicines can have harmful adverse effects when they interact with methylphenidate. You should also inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures, depression or other mental health problems. Certain people suffering from ADHD find that methylphenidate does not help them. In this case your doctor may recommend alternative ADHD medications, like the atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Some people suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychological therapies, such as behavioural treatment. Methlphenidate is available in both short-acting tablets as well as long-acting tablets. The short-acting tablet starts working within a matter of hours. It is taken twice or three times daily to have a 24-hour effect. The long-acting tablets, chewable tablets and granules are absorbed in your bloodstreams more slowly and last longer than the short-acting forms. Your doctor will test for allergy to methylphenidate before prescribing the drug. 3. Atomoxetine While stimulant medications are the first option for ADHD treatment, it can be associated with side effects that are difficult to accept. Adults who aren't able to take stimulant medications, or do not respond well to them, might benefit from nonstimulant medication. Nonstimulants increase the capacity of ADHD patients to focus, control impulses, and reduce hyperactivity. They build up slowly within the body. adhd medication for adults uk allows the medication to function for a long period of time and keeps symptoms from recurring when the drug has worn off. These medications are usually taken as pills or capsules and come in different strengths. Certain medications are long-acting, lasting up to 16 hours. It is common for patients to try a variety of drugs before settling on the one that is the most effective for them. Atomoxetine is an antidepressant that has been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD in adults and children. It is part of a class of medications known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of medication increases norepinephrine levels. This may help to decrease impulsivity while increasing concentration. It is less likely to cause adverse effects such as anxiety or agitation than other stimulant medication. It is crucial to speak with your physician prior to beginning any new medication. It may take a few weeks before you notice any changes in your symptoms however, you should continue to take the medication according to instructions. Your doctor will keep track of you and make adjustments to the dosage as needed. A variety of antidepressants are prescribed off-label in the treatment of ADHD however, they haven't been tested in trials for this condition. These medications are prescribed to people who suffer from anxiety, depression, cannot tolerate stimulants or have a history of drug abuse history. Bupropion is an example of this type of off-label medication, which has been proven to be effective in certain individuals. 4. Wellbutrin/Zyban It's your choice whether or not you decide to start taking medication as an adult for ADHD. It is crucial to discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of each treatment before making a choice. If you decide to use medication for your ADHD, it's likely that your dosage and schedule will change as you adjust to the effects of the treatment. Stimulants, the most common treatment for ADHD help by increasing and balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. However there are several alternatives that aren't stimulants for those who struggle with stimulants due to health problems or serious adverse reactions. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug approved for ADHD and it is a stimulant that works on norepinephrine within the brain to improve concentration and focus. Venlafaxine (Effexor) could also help in reducing ADHD symptoms. However further research is needed to confirm this. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as to the medications mentioned above can help you alter unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to ADHD. During sessions, you will develop skills like moderated thinking, reassessing your all-or nothing thinking, and reducing the negative self-talk you have about yourself. You can practice CBT alone or in a group. Bupropion, atypical antidepressant, is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by affecting dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, improving mood and concentration. Wellbutrin can be used in three daily 150 mg to 450 mg doses. However, your doctor may recommend starting with a lower dose. Wellbutrin should not be used in the case of eating disorders, glaucoma or seizures. 5. Effexor Effexor, or venlafaxine, is an antidepressant which can also be effective in treating ADHD. It functions in a similar way to stimulants by altering levels of norepinephrine and dopamine. It's not FDA approved as a treatment for ADHD however, it is frequently prescribed off-label, especially when stimulant medications cause side effects that are intolerable or are not recommended. Some patients also benefit from antidepressants such as duloxetine and bupropion, which are available under the brand names Wellbutrin and Cymbalta. Two blood pressure medications—guanfacine ER (Kapvay) and clonidine SR (Kapvay)—are also effective nonstimulant ADHD medications. Both medications increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, thereby improving communication between nerve cells. They also reduce impulsivity and reduce hyperactivity, making them good choices for people suffering from ADHD who suffer from depression or anxiety. Certain stimulants can increase the risk of heart disease in children and high school students, which is why nonstimulant ADHD medications have become popular for those groups as well. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera increases norepinephrine. Guanfacine and clonidine affect alpha-2 receptors in the brain to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. Some people's effectiveness with non-stimulant medication decreases over time. The best solution for you will depend on your medical history, family genetics and the response to treatment. Many people with ADHD will test a variety of drugs over time to discover the one that works best for them. It's also normal to alter your dosage over time. This is especially the case when life changes are significant. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the most effective medications for your specific situation. Then, you can choose the medication that will allow you to live life to the fullest.