How Effective is ADHD Medication for Adults?
by Jay D. Tarnow, M.D.
When patients are diagnosed with ADHD by their primary care physician, their first question to them is often, "What medication should I be taking for this?" People, who struggle with work, school, interpersonal relationships, recreation, and overall life satisfaction due to their difficulties with inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, often look for quick relief in the form of a quick magic pill. However, patience is often the key.
Research has shown that medication alone causes a 50% reduction or less in the core symptoms of ADHD in adults, although this can vary considerably from patient to patient. Although this reduction can have a meaningful impact on daily functioning for many adults with ADHD, lasting difficulties related to ADHD also remain for many patients.
Research studies have examined how adults with ADHD perceive their functioning to be after medical treatment. It has been found that adults consider their impairment at work because of ADHD symptoms to be moderate, despite receiving medication treatment. Additionally, several adults also considered their impairment in interpersonal relationships as well as overall life satisfaction to be "mild to moderate".
These studies imply that many adults with ADHD continue to experience significant difficulties in their daily activities despite receiving medication treatment. These problems are more evident in the work domain and somewhat lesser in the interpersonal functioning domain. This suggests that many adults with ADHD require additional interventions other than medication treatment to eliminate the difficulties created by ADHD symptoms. These would include but not be limited to learning self-management skills, compensatory techniques, organizational skills, and addressing relationship difficulties.
If you or someone you know has ADHD, you know the frustration that comes along with it. However, there is hope. Your first step would be to find a therapist or a professional who has experience working with people who have ADHD. When selecting your therapist, ask them questions about their knowledge and experience with the disorder. In addition, you should ask them the specific treatment model they use, and for other resources such as readings about ADHD. Look for certified or licensed professionals who have the education needed to help people like you. Beware of charismatic people, who may proclaim to be experts solely because they have ADHD themselves.
The Tarnow Center has been working with individuals with ADHD for the last three decades. Our experienced and licensed clinicians offer groups for adults with ADHD, individual therapy/coaching, as well as extensive diagnostic testing to confirm your diagnosis. To learn how all or any of these may benefit you, please call our Intake Coordinator, Uyen Vo at 713-621-9515.