ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control the brain's attention. They are first-line medications to treat ADHD. They aren't considered to be habit-forming, however they can cause adverse effects, like headaches and sleep problems.
To reduce impulsivity or hyperactivity, your doctor may prescribe guanfacine under the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These medications are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs doctors will try and are often used to control symptoms in people with ADHD. However, they can cause serious side effects and don't treat the condition. Doctors typically prescribe different stimulants and doses to find what works best for each person. The aim is to find a medicine that is safe and effective for long-term use, while reducing symptoms with minimal side negative effects.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate. It is part of the class of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under a variety of brands including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate aids in increasing activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times a day) or modified release tablets, which allow the medicine to enter the bloodstream slowly over a longer time period. It is a highly effective drug that has low rates of dependence and abuse.
Certain people with ADHD may also suffer from other psychiatric disorders. In these cases, the doctor might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first and see if that improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a patient who suffers from major depression might be prescribed antidepressants prior to trying stimulants. The same goes for tic and anxiety disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants for someone who suffers from Tourette's or other tics. These medications are less likely to cause drowsiness or depression and can be used quickly to ease the symptoms of tics.
Stimulant medications can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. add adhd medication can also trigger side effects like irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches and decreased appetite. They are generally not recommended for children under 8 years and shouldn't be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They should not be taken by those who have a history of or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or a history of addiction. These drugs are also not recommended for people with a history of strokes or seizures.
The majority of people with ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication and psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can teach you skills such as self-talk, organizational techniques and anger management to assist cope with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also assist by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people suffering from the condition. They can also provide accommodations at school and at work to help students who suffer from ADHD succeed. In some cases employers are willing to allow flexibility in how tasks are assigned or allow workers take breaks as needed. They can also offer employees more time and offer more specific explanations of the task. This is especially helpful when the employee is struggling to grasp complex instructions or concepts. In these situations employers can offer to train employees to use assistive technology that can aid them in keeping up with their peers.