The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults
Most of the medications used to treat ADHD are classified into two categories: stimulants and nonstimulants. The stimulants like methylphenidate (Provigil) and amphetamines function by increasing activity in parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention.
Non-stimulants like guanfacine atomoxetine, and clonidine, work slower than stimulants, however they can help improve concentration, attention, and impulsivity. They also seem to reduce anxiety, which is frequently 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 can trigger bad side effects in some people. Nonstimulant medications take longer time to begin to work however they can help increase impulsiveness and inattention for certain adults. ADHD is best treated with the combination of therapy and medication.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from treatment in 70-80% of the range. Medication is only one part of treatment, but many people find that lifestyle changes and training also help. It's important to tell your doctor about any issues or side effects from the medication so that they can adjust your dosage if needed.
inattentive adhd medication and methylphenidates are stimulant medications. Methylphenidates are the most common medications for ADD/ADHD. They are available in various strengths and forms, as well as dosages that include chewable, liquid, tablet, and capsule. Most adults and children are safe to take them. However, those suffering from glaucoma, advanced arteriosclerosis or heart disease-related symptoms, or who have recently taken monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) are not recommended to take them.
Amphetamines are similar to methylphenidates but are more powerful. They're generally less likely to cause serious side effects, and they're more effective than methylphenidates in the reduction of symptoms of ADHD. They're also more likely to cause addiction and abuse, hence they're classified as Schedule I drugs.
Both kinds of stimulants may have some unpleasant side effects, including headaches, stomach upset, jitters, trouble sleeping, and loss of appetite. The majority of these side effects are mild and last for a few weeks.
Nonstimulant medications
Nonstimulant medications for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants, and may not be as effective, however they can help improve attention and irritability. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals that help control emotions and focus attention. There are many types of these medications, and some doctors prescribe them in conjunction with stimulants to achieve the best results.
Strattera (atomoxetine), an SNRI, increases the levels of norepinephrine within the brain, which reduces the tendency to be impulsive and inattention. FDA approval took a while but the drug has been proven to be effective in treating ADHD. Guanfacine is also referred to as Intuniv, is a blood-pressure medication that works by increasing norepinephrine levels and reducing the amount of impulsivity. It's a little slower to begin working than methylphenidate or amphetamines, and it has a more "no-fly" effect on the brain. Other medications that increase norepinephrine levels include 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 because they increase the levels of brain chemicals that impact the mood and behavior.