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Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Most Effective ADHD Medication For Adults?
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 all people. Nonstimulant drugs and antidepressants may help.

Adults with ADHD can take medications or patches, or liquids. They improve concentration and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. Doctors often prescribe them if stimulants fail to work or cause side effects.

1. Strattera

Strattera is the brand name of atomoxetine is an effective ADHD medication for adults. Contrary to stimulant medications such as Adderall which boost dopamine and norepinephrine supply to the brain to lessen ADHD symptoms, Strattera works differently. It will not give you energy or make your heart race, and can help control an impulsive behaviour without causing jitteriness or anxiety, says Dr. Zishan Khan, a psychiatrist based in Texas and regional medical director at Mindpath Health. He adds that atomoxetine is also a great option for those with specific medical reasons to avoid stimulants, such as a history of seizures or glaucoma that is not properly controlled or those who are concerned about substance abuse issues.

Strattera is categorized by doctors as a selective Norepinephrine-Reuptake Inhibitor an antidepressant that alters the brain's use of Norepinephrine. Dr. Zand notes that Strattera is usually prescribed to treat depression, however, it can also be used to treat ADHD. It can be especially helpful for people who have an underlying condition like ADHD with anxiety. It's typically prescribed in smaller doses at first, and then gradually increased in accordance with the person's weight and age.

The most frequent side effects are drowsiness, nausea and appetite changes. Strattera interacts with many medications, including stimulants. It should not be taken with clonidine, or any other medications inhibiting monoamine oxidase. It takes longer to take effect than stimulants, and can take up to 24 hours for it to disappear. In certain instances doctors may recommend mixing Strattera with stimulants, like adding Adderall to Ritalin to increase the effects of each. However, this isn't a common practice and should be done under a physician's direction. In addition the FDA places a black box warning on Strattera which warns that it could cause serious and possibly life-threatening liver problems in some individuals.

2. Methylphenidate

Methlphenidate is an ADHD medication that belongs to the group of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It also treats narcolepsy (a sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness as well as abrupt attacks of sleep). Methlphenidate affects the quantity of certain natural substances inside your brain. It is available only with a prescription.

Stimulants boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are the first-line choice for people suffering from ADHD. However, they can cause adverse effects, such as stomach upset, insomnia and difficulty with concentration. Talk to your doctor about the side effects you are experiencing. If the side effects are severe the doctor may recommend that you take a different medication.

It is crucial to inform your doctor that you or your child is taking methylphenidate. Certain medications can interact with methylphenidate and result in dangerous side effects. It is important to let your doctor know the 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 other ADHD medication like the atomoxetine or lisdexamfetamine. Psychological treatments, such as behavioral therapy can be beneficial for certain people suffering from ADHD.

Methlphenidate can be found in both short-acting tablets and long-acting ones. The short-acting tablet begins to work within an hour. It is taken twice or three times daily for a 24-hour effect. Long-acting tablets get into your bloodstream more slowly and last longer. Some patients are allergic to the chemical methylphenidate. Your physician will test you for this allergy before prescribing it.

3. Atomoxetine

While stimulant medications are the first option for ADHD treatment, it could cause side effects that are difficult to accept. Adults who cannot take stimulant drugs or who do not respond well to them, might benefit from nonstimulant drugs. Nonstimulants can improve the ability to focus, manage impulses and reduce hyperactivity among people with ADHD. These drugs work slowly and build up within the body over time. This lets the medication function for a longer period of time, and prevents symptoms from returning after the drug has worn off. These medications are usually taken as pills or capsules and are available in a variety of strengths. Some are long-acting and last for up to 16 hours. Many people will test several drugs before they can find the one that is right for them.

Atomoxetine is an antidepressant. It has been FDA approved to treat ADHD both in adults and children. It is part of a class of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). This class of medication increases norepinephrine levels. This can reduce impulsivity while increasing concentration. It is also less likely to cause adverse effects like agitation or anxiety than other stimulant medications.

It is crucial to speak with your doctor prior to starting any new medication. It could take a few weeks before you notice any changes in your symptoms however, you must continue taking the medication as directed. Your doctor will keep track of you and make adjustments to your dosage if needed.

add adhd medications are used off-label for the treatment of ADHD, but they haven't been tested in trials for this condition. These medications are prescribed to those who have depression, anxiety or aversion to 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 people.

4. Wellbutrin/Zyban

The decision to take medication for ADHD as an adult is a personal one. About 70%-80% of people who are prescribed medication experience significant improvement in their symptoms, however it is important to discuss the advantages and risks of any treatment with your doctor prior to making the decision. If you decide to try medication to treat ADHD, your dosage and schedule could change as time passes.


Stimulants, which are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD, work by boosting and balancing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. However there are a number of alternatives that aren't stimulants for those who struggle with stimulants due to health issues or serious adverse effects. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant drug approved for ADHD, and it acts on norepinephrine in the brain to increase focus and attention. Another antidepressant, Venlafaxine (Effexor), may also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms, although more research is needed to confirm this.

In addition to the medications mentioned above, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can aid in the transformation of unhealthy thinking and behaviour patterns that contribute to ADHD. In sessions, you'll learn techniques such as moderation, reassessing the all or nothing mentality, and reducing your negative self-talk. You can test CBT on your on your own or in an ensemble.

Bupropion, an antidepressant that is atypical is sometimes used to treat ADHD off-label. It works by affecting norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, improving mood and concentration. Wellbutrin is usually taken in three daily doses of 150 mg up to 450 mg. However, your doctor will begin with a lower dose. Wellbutrin is not recommended for those suffering from eating disorders, glaucoma or seizure disorders.

5. Effexor

Effexor (venlafaxine) is an antidepressant that's also effective in treating ADHD. It functions in a similar way to stimulants, affecting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. It's not FDA approved for use as an treatment for ADHD, but it's frequently prescribed off-label to treat the condition, especially when stimulant medications are contraindicated or cause unacceptably adverse unwanted side effects. Some patients also benefit from antidepressants, such as bupropion and duloxetine 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 within the brain, improving the communication between nerve cells. They also decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity, making them a good option for those with ADHD who are depressed or anxious.

Certain stimulants can increase the risk of heart problems in children and high school students, so non-stimulant ADHD medications are now popular with these groups too. Atomoxetine (Strattera) increases levels of norepinephrine while guanfacine and Clonidine alter the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Certain people's effectiveness with nonstimulant medication decreases over time. Your medical history, the genetics of your family, and response to medication will determine the best solution for you. Many people suffering from ADHD will test several different drugs to determine the one that is most effective for them. It's normal to need to alter your dosage over time as well, particularly when significant life changes happen. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the most effective medications for your particular situation. Then, you can pick the ones that will enable you to live your life to the fullest.

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