ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. Although they are not to be taken regularly, they can have adverse effects like headaches and sleep problems.
Your doctor might prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. 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. Iam Psychiatry are usually the first medications doctors prescribe, and they are able to manage symptoms for most people with ADHD. However, they can cause serious side effects and don't cure the disorder. Doctors prescribe different stimulants in different doses to determine which is most effective for each person. The goal is to find a drug that is safe and efficient over the long term, while also reducing symptoms with a minimum of side effects.
The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is available under a variety of brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate increases activity in brain areas that regulate the behavior and attention. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) or modified release tablets, which allow the medicine to be absorbed into the bloodstream slowly over a longer period. It is an effective drug with a low rate of addiction and abuse.
Certain people with ADHD are also suffering from other psychiatric disorders. In these instances, doctors may prefer treating the more severe disorder to determine whether it improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants can be prescribed to a patient who suffers from major depression before stimulants are considered. Similar is the case for anxiety and tic disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants for someone who suffers from Tourette's or other disorders that cause tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness or depressed mood and work quickly to reduce the symptoms of tics.
Stimulants can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also trigger side effects like irritability, headaches, insomnia and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for children under 8 years and shouldn't be used during breastfeeding or pregnancy. They should not be taken by people with a history or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or an addiction history. These medications are also not recommended for people with a history or seizures or strokes.
Most adults with ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication as well as psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills such as self-talk, anger management, and organizational skills to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people with the disorder. They can also help arrange accommodations at school and work to make it easier for people with ADHD to achieve their goals. Employers can be flexible with the way certain tasks are assigned or permit workers to take breaks as they require. They can also provide more detailed explanations of assignments and give employees more time to complete the assignments. This is particularly helpful if the worker struggles to comprehend complex instructions or concepts. In such situations employers can offer to help employees learn to use assistive technology that can aid them in keeping up with their peers.