ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control attention in the brain. They are the first line of treatment to treat ADHD. Although they are not in any way habit-forming, they can trigger side effects such as headaches and difficulty sleeping.
To decrease impulsivity or hyperactivity Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine under brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs most often prescribed to treat ADHD. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are usually the first drugs that doctors test and can often control symptoms in people with ADHD. They can cause serious adverse effects, but they don't solve ADHD. Doctors prescribe different stimulants in different doses to determine which is the most effective for the individual. The goal is to find a medication that is safe and effective for long-term use, while reducing symptoms with minimal adverse consequences.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate. It is part of the class of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brand names, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate assists in increasing the activity in parts of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. medication for adhd in adults is available in immediate-release (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified release tablets that allow the medicine to be absorbed into the bloodstream slowly over a longer time period. It is a highly effective drug that has low rates of abuse and addiction.
Some people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the more severe disorder to see if it improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person suffering from depression major may be offered antidepressants before trying stimulants. The same is true for anxiety and tic disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants to a person who suffers from Tourette's or other disorders that cause tics. These medications perform quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant drugs can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They also can cause adverse effects, such as irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for children under 8 years and shouldn't be used during breastfeeding or pregnancy. They should not be used by people with a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These drugs are also not recommended for those with a history or strokes or seizures.
Most people suffering from ADHD are treated with a combination plan that includes medication as well as psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help teach techniques such as self-talk, anger management, and other organizational strategies to cope with the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also aid by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively with those suffering from the disorder. They can also make adjustments at school and at work to help people with ADHD succeed. In some cases employers will offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned or allow employees take breaks as they need. They may also offer more detailed explanations of tasks and allow employees more time to complete them. This is especially helpful if the worker struggles to grasp complicated instructions or concepts. In these situations employers may offer to train the employee to use assistive technology to aid in keeping pace with other employees.