ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers which control the brain's attention. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. Although they're not to be taken regularly, they can have side effects such as headaches and sleep problems.
To reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity, your doctor may prescribe guanfacine with the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications most often prescribed to treat ADHD. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs that doctors test and are often able to reduce symptoms for people suffering from ADHD. However, they can also cause serious side effects and don't solve the problem. Doctors typically prescribe different stimulants and doses to find the one that is most suitable for each individual. The goal is to find a medicine that is safe and efficient over the long term, while also reducing symptoms with a minimum of side negative effects.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate. It belongs to the category of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's sold under many brands such as Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken two to three times a day) or modified release tablets that allow the medicine to enter the bloodstream gradually over a longer time period. It is an effective drug with a low rate of dependence and abuse.
Certain people with ADHD also have other psychiatric disorders. In these instances, doctors might decide to treat the more severe disorder first and see if this improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants may be prescribed to patients who suffers from major depression before stimulants are tried. The same is true for tic and anxiety disorders. A doctor may prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants to a patient who suffers from Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These drugs perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
Stimulants can alter blood pressure and heart rate. They also can cause side effects such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old. adhd adult medication should not be used during breast-feeding or pregnancy. People who have a history of substance abuse or bipolar disorder should not take them. Additionally, these medications are not recommended for patients who suffer from strokes or seizures.
Most adults with ADHD receive a combination of treatment that includes psychosocial therapy, medication or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills such as self-talk, anger management, and other organizational strategies to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively with those suffering from the disorder. They can also arrange for accommodations at work and school to make it easier for people with ADHD to achieve their goals. Employers may be flexible with the way certain tasks are assigned or allow employees to take breaks when they need. They can also offer employees more time as well as provide more specific explanations of the task. This is particularly helpful if the worker struggles to comprehend complex instructions or concepts. In such cases employers can offer to train employees to use assistive technologies that will aid them in keeping up with their peers.