The Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults

Stimulants are the first choice of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. They help regulate levels of two chemical signals in the brain which control the attention.

The most effective medication for adhd for adults is Strattera (atomoxetine). It is available in a capsule that can either be taken with food or without. It works well for most people. It lasts longer than stimulants that have an action time that is shorter like amphetamine and methylphenidate.

1. Strattera

Strattera (atomoxetine), a nonstimulant ADHD drug, functions differently than stimulant medications such as Adderall. It alters the brain chemical that regulates impulse control, behavior and attention. Strattera is effective for the majority of people, but the individual response may differ. The effectiveness of the medication is dependent on your symptoms, and other factors like your overall health and genetics.

Stimulants such as Ritalin or Vyvanse release the amphetamine, also known as methylphenidate, into your body rapidly which increases concentration and reduces hyperactivity. These drugs can have side effects, such as trouble sleeping and an increased risk of having seizures and heart problems, and tics, or sudden movements and sounds, such as throat clearing. The stimulant drugs can also cause the tics of people with Tourette's syndrome. Strattera is a great option for those with ADHD who want to stay clear of stimulant medication or do not want to suffer its adverse effects.

The most popular dose of Strattera is 40 milligrams each day in the morning. Doctors may recommend a lower dose or suggest two doses. You should not exceed 80 mg per dose. A few studies have demonstrated that taking the medication early in the morning is more effective than taking it at night.

Strattera has the advantage of not being controlled substances. This makes it safer than other ADHD medications. It's not a perfect fit for everyone so your doctor might try other medications before giving you the recommendation for Strattera. It is recommended to inform your doctor about any positive or negative changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior while you are taking Strattera. The FDA warns the drug may increase your risk of suicide, particularly when you first begin treatment and your dosage is changed.

2. Qelbree

Qelbree (viloxazine extended-release) is a brand name drug that doctors prescribe to treat ADHD in adults. It is part of the class of medications known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. In a research study sponsored by Supernus Pharmaceuticals the researchers found that the drug decreased ADHD symptoms in some adults following a six-week test. It also improved performance in some patients and reduced impulsivity.

The medication can also assist with bipolar and depression. It is important to speak with your doctor about your symptoms and goals prior to starting the medication. Your doctor may also suggest therapy, which could be combined with medication to improve the overall outcome of your treatment.

Adderall, Ritalin and other stimulant medications are often the first choice for people with ADHD. However they might not be suitable for all. Nonstimulant medications such as Qelbree or Strattera are suitable for people who are unable to tolerate stimulants or suffer from side effects.

Nonstimulant medications, unlike stimulants that can cause dependence and abuse are not affecting the brain areas that control attention or increase the levels of natural brain chemicals. They also can alleviate symptoms without the anxiety, headaches, stomachaches, insomnia and weight loss associated with stimulants.

Although doctors aren't sure how Qelbree affects the brain they believe that it increases the availability of norepinephrine and decreases dopamine. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter and helps control impulses and concentration.

Qelbree has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat adults and children ages 6 years and over. It is an oral capsule that is taken once daily at a low dosage that can be increased.

3. Bupropion

In addition to psychosocial therapy, doctors often prescribe medications to treat ADHD. The most popular first-line or gold standard, medications are stimulant drugs. They alleviate symptoms and help people be more productive at school, work or home. Some people may have to test a variety of medications before settling on one that is most suitable for them. Doctors can suggest specific brands of medicines and can provide regular follow-ups to ensure that they're working properly.

Nonstimulant medicines can be prescribed by doctors. These drugs don't have the same effects as stimulants and are safer for those who suffer from heart issues. They can help reduce impulsivity and improve concentration and focus.

Bupropion (also called Wellbutrin) is an antidepressant medication used to treat ADHD. It increases the levels of dopamine which is a chemical messenger and norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter. This helps to calm people down and improves impulse control. Doctors can prescribe it as a tablet that has immediate-release or an extended-release. The tablet that is immediate-release is more effective. The extended-release tablet is slower, but lasts longer.

It is essential to inform your doctor about any other medicines you're taking or have taken in the past, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Certain medications such as Guanfacine or clonidine can interfere with the medication.

If you suffer from an underlying condition, your doctor may recommend other treatment options such as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) or an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Both were developed to treat anxiety and depression. They can also aid in reducing ADHD by reducing impulsivity, improving mood and attention and reducing the amount of impulsivity.

Doctors can also refer patients to psychological therapy, for example CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy). This is a talking therapy that has been proven to help people suffering from ADHD. It helps people with ADHD new ways of thinking and behavior. It can also improve relationships and family life.

4. Guanfacine

Guanfacine works in a completely different way from stimulants. It slows down activity in certain areas of the brain to regulate impulsive behavior. It can be prescribed as an immediate-release tablet Guanfacine (Tenex) or extended-release tablets with the brand name Intuniv. It could take several weeks to see the full effect of the medication. Doctors typically begin patients on a low dose and gradually increase the dosage.

It isn't clear what the effects types of adhd medication guanfacine are on ADHD however it is believed to be able to help by reducing norepinephrine levels in specific areas of the brain that control the impulsivity and attention. It also is believed to decrease blood pressure. In a study of eight weeks, guanfacine significantly reduced ADHD symptoms compared to placebo. This improvement was not as significant as the results seen with stimulants, however.

This medication is usually only prescribed for ADHD when stimulants like amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are not tolerated or do not produce adequate results. The medication is usually prescribed for children between the 6-17 years old or when a medical condition makes stimulants unsafe.

Stimulants increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters, like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They can improve concentration, focus and impulsivity. Nonstimulant medications, like bupropion and atomoxetine, reduce the brain's capacity to absorb these neurotransmitters. They can be employed in conjunction with behavioral therapy as a part of a complete treatment plan.

Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain parts of the brain and increases concentration and impulsiveness. It also improves focus, and can be offered to teenagers and adults after at least 6 weeks of treatment with methylphenidate has not resulted in improvement of their symptoms. Lisdexamfetamine is the best choice for children older than 5 years old who suffer from ADHD. However it is also given to teens and adults whose symptoms have not improved after six weeks of treatment.

5. Clonidine

Clonidine belongs in a class of drugs known as alpha-adrenergic antagonists. These medications increase blood flow by relaxing blood arteries. Clonidine may also reduce diarrhea.

In the beginning it was awaited approval by the FDA to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is used to treat a wide range of conditions and symptoms like depression and anxiety. Clonidine can also assist people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.

It is available as a tablet or patch and can be prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken along with other ADHD medication. It's important to take this medication according to the instructions or else it won't be effective. Clonidine comes in two forms: the brand name Kapvay, and the generic version of clonidine (KapvayXR).

Adults are given 0.1 mg taken orally at the time of sleeping. The dosage can be increased in increments of 0.1 mg every week until your physician determines the dose that is the most effective for you.

Clonidine is effective in improving sleep quality. This is a typical side-effect of stimulant drugs. It also helps in lessening the adverse effects of stimulants such as aggression, jitteriness and tics. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine suggests that behavioral strategies be explored prior to prescribing medications for insomnia.

Clonidine is known to interact with several other medications, including antipsychotics and sedatives. It can also increase the risk of seizure in some people. Clonidine use can also raise your blood pressure and heart rate, so it's important to let your doctor know whether you're taking other medications or have a history of medical problems. It's also crucial to decrease the dose after stopping clonidine as abrupt withdrawal could cause high blood pressure, headaches and chest tightness nervousness, and other symptoms.