ADHD Medications For Adults
Adults are most likely to use stimulants as ADHD medication. Long-acting stimulants such as methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine are preferred over short-acting ones.
Atomoxetine is a prescription drug for people who are unable or unwilling to take methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine. It increases the amount of noradrenaline found in brain cells, which helps with concentration and regulating impulse-driven behavior.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common medicines for adults with ADHD. They improve focus, reduce anxiety and control impulsive behaviors. They work by boosting and balancing levels of chemical in the brain referred to as neurotransmitters. The most popular stimulants are amphetamines and methylphenidate. They come in liquid, tablet or chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes and last for about three hours. Intermediate-release pills last between six and eight hours. Once daily, long-acting pills and tablets can last as long as 16 hrs.
Stimulation can cause side effects such as trouble sleeping (a racing mind) and headaches, jitters and stomach upset. It can also raise blood pressure or heart rate which is a risk when you already have heart problems.
Adults suffering from ADHD may find relief through other medications and therapies that address their specific issues. These include nonstimulants, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other medications.
Nonstimulant medicines work differently than stimulants for those suffering from ADHD. It can take longer to begin working however, it is generally well-tolerated. Healthcare providers often pair it with stimulants to increase the effects and minimize adverse effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These drugs increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to help improve concentration and manage the impulsive behavior. These drugs aren't as effective as stimulants, and they can be less fast-acting. However, for certain people they may work better.
Many people who suffer from ADHD find that lifestyle changes can help reduce their symptoms, such as having enough sleep and sticking to an established schedule. A healthy diet is also important. People suffering from ADHD need to eat a balanced diet, and avoid foods high in fats, sugars, or artificial ingredients.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) that can help them learn how to manage their behavior and deal with anger and stress. Individual talk therapy can also assist with emotional issues that can lead to impulsive and self-destructive behavior, such as low self-esteem, or feelings of shame or embarrassment due to the past mistakes at school and work.
Couples and families can also benefit from counseling for ADHD. It can help them learn techniques to improve their communication and problem-solving as well as help with relationship difficulties that might contribute to the disorder.
People with both ADHD and anxiety can benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) that can help to change negative thinking patterns and increase social skills. This type of therapy is generally done with a therapist in person, but it can be provided via video chat software such as Skype.
Some people suffering from ADHD also use dietary supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and coenzymeQ10 for managing their condition. They might also cut out certain foods from their diets. But these methods do not have a strong scientific basis and shouldn't be attempted without medical guidance. Eliminating certain foods can cause harm to your overall health, particularly when certain nutrients aren't present. For most effective adhd medication for adults who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety, it's a great idea to seek treatment for both conditions simultaneously.