ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are able to regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control the brain's attention. They are regarded as the first-line treatment for ADHD. Although they're not in any way habit-forming, they can trigger side effects such as headaches and trouble sleeping.
Your doctor might also prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They help balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. These are often the first drugs that doctors prescribe, and they are able to manage symptoms for most people suffering from ADHD. However, they can cause negative side effects that are serious and can't solve the problem. Doctors typically prescribe different doses of stimulants to determine the one that is most suitable for each individual. The goal is to find a medication that is effective in treating symptoms and has the least adverse effects and is safe to take long term.
It is sold under many brand names including Ritalin and Adderall. It is available under a variety of brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate enhances brain activity areas that control the behavior and attention. It is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken between 2 and 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medicine to be released into the bloodstream for a longer period of time. It is a very efficient drug with low rates of abuse and addiction.
Some people with ADHD have other psychiatric conditions. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first and see if this improves ADHD symptoms. For example, a patient with major depression may be offered antidepressants before trying stimulants. Similar is the case for anxiety and tic disorders. A doctor may prescribe clonidine or guanfacine instead of stimulants to a patient with Tourette's Syndrome or other tics. These medications perform quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant medicines can affect heart rate and blood pressure. adhd and medication can also trigger negative side effects like irritability headaches, trouble sleeping and a decrease in appetite. They are not recommended for children under 8 years and shouldn't be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They should not be taken by people who have a history or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or an addiction history. These drugs are also not recommended for those with a history of seizures or strokes.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with a combination of treatment options that include psychosocial therapy, medication or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills like organizational techniques, self-talk and anger management to help with the challenges of living with ADHD. Additionally, healthcare professionals can help by instructing supervisors and coworkers on ADHD and demonstrating how to effectively work with those suffering from the disorder. They can also arrange for accommodations at school and work to make it easier for people suffering from ADHD to succeed. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible about how the work is assigned or permit workers to take breaks as needed. They can also give employees more time and provide a more detailed explanation of the task. This is especially useful for those who struggle to comprehend complex instructions or concepts. In such situations, employers may offer to help employees learn to use assistive technologies that will aid them in keeping up with their peers.