The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
The majority of ADHD medications fall into two categories: stimulants and nonstimulants. Stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamines stimulate brain areas that regulate attention and behavior.
Non-stimulants, such as guanfacine Clonidine, atomoxetine, and others, are slower than stimulants, but they help improve concentration and attention, as well as impulsivity. They also help reduce anxiety which is often associated with ADHD in adults.
Stimulants
The first drug that doctors use to treat ADHD is stimulant medication. However, these drugs aren't for everyone and they may cause undesirable adverse effects for certain people. Nonstimulant medication takes longer to work, however, they can help improve attention or impulsiveness in certain adults. ADHD is best treated using a a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.
Medicines are around 70%-80% effective in treating ADHD in adults. Medications are only part of the treatment. Many people also find that lifestyle changes and skill training aid. It is important to inform your doctor about any problems or side effects from the medication so that they can alter your dosage if necessary.
There are two kinds of stimulant medications amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are the most common ADD/ADHD medicines. They're available in different strengths and forms, like chewable tablets, liquids or capsules. The majority of adults and children are safe to take them, however those suffering from glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis or heart disease symptoms, or who recently took monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are not recommended to take them.
Amphetamines have a lot in common with methylphenidates but are more powerful. They're less likely to cause serious adverse effects, and are more effective than methylphenidates at the reduction of symptoms of ADHD. They are more likely than methylphenidates cause addiction and abuse. treating adhd without medication is why they're classified as Schedule I drugs.
Both types of stimulants can have some negative side effects, like stomach upsets, headaches insomnia, jitters and a loss of appetite. However, most of them aren't serious and last longer than a couple of weeks.
Nonstimulant medicines
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to work than stimulants. They may not be as efficient however they can improve irritability and inattention. They work by increasing levels of brain chemicals that help manage emotions and focus attention. There are a variety of these medications and some doctors recommend them with stimulants to get the best results.
Strattera (atomoxetine) is an SNRI that increases levels of norepinephrine, a chemical in the brain that helps reduce impulsivity and inattention. It took a long time for it to become FDA-approved for treating ADHD, but it's been proven to be effective for adults. Guanfacine, also known as Intuniv is a blood pressure medication that is effective by boosting the levels of norepinephrine and decreasing the impulsivity. It takes a bit longer to work than methylphenidate or amphetamines. It also has a stronger "no-fly effect" on the brain. Wellbutrin/Zyban (bupropion) and Effexor, (venlafaxine) are other medicines that increase the level of norepinephrine. The FDA has not approved these medications to treat ADHD. However they could help certain people. Antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD as they increase the levels of brain chemicals that influence mood and behavior.