ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are considered to be the first-line medication to treat ADHD. Although they are not in any way habit-forming, they can trigger side effects such as headaches and difficulty sleeping.
To reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity, your doctor may prescribe guanfacine with the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These medications have a longer acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They balance and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These are usually the first drugs that doctors prescribe, and they are able to manage symptoms for most people suffering from ADHD. However, they can have negative side effects that are serious and can't treat the condition. adhd in adults medication prescribe different stimulants in different doses to see what works best for the individual. The goal is to find a medication that is effective in treating symptoms and has the fewest adverse effects and is safe to use in the long run.
The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's sold under many brand names, including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate aids in increasing activity in areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. It is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two to three times a day) or modified-release tablets that allow the drug to be released into the bloodstream over a longer period of time. It is a very effective drug that has low rates of dependence and abuse.
Some people who suffer from ADHD have other psychiatric conditions. In these instances, doctors may prefer to treat the disorder that is more severe first and see if this improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants can be prescribed to a patient with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. The same applies to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants to a person suffering from Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These medicines work quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
Stimulants can affect blood pressure and heart rate. They can also trigger adverse effects such as irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old and should not be taken during breast-feeding or pregnancy. Anyone with an addiction history or bipolar disorder shouldn't take them. Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for patients who suffer from seizures or strokes.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with a combination of treatments that include psychosocial therapy, medication, or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching techniques such as self-talk, anger management, and other organizational strategies to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively with those suffering from the condition. They can also help arrange accommodations at work and school to help people with ADHD to succeed. Employers can be flexible about how certain tasks are assigned, or permit workers to take breaks as they require. They can also provide more detailed explanations of tasks and allow employees longer to complete them. This can be particularly helpful when the employee has trouble understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these instances the employer may offer to train the employee in using assistive technology that can aid in keeping the pace of colleagues.