ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are able to regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control attention in the brain. They are considered first-line medications for ADHD. Although they're not habit-forming, they can cause negative side effects, such as headaches and trouble sleeping.
To reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity the doctor could prescribe guanfacine with the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs doctors will try and are often used to control symptoms in most people with ADHD. They can have serious adverse effects, but they do not cure ADHD. Doctors usually prescribe different doses of stimulants to determine what works best for each person. adhd and medication is to find a medication that is safe and efficient for long-term use while reducing symptoms with minimal adverse consequences.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate. It belongs to the category of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under a variety of brand names including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate assists in increasing the activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medicine to be absorbed into the bloodstream over a longer period of time. It is a drug that works that is low in addiction and abuse.
Some people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these cases, the doctor may prefer to treat the more severe disorder first and see if this improves ADHD symptoms. adhd and medication can be prescribed to a patient with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. Similar is the case for anxiety disorders 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 help reduce the symptoms of tics.
Stimulant medications can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also cause negative side effects like irritability headaches, trouble sleeping and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for children less than 8 years and shouldn't be used during breastfeeding or pregnancy. People who have a history of addiction or bipolar disorder should not use them. In addition, these medications are not recommended for patients who suffer from seizures or strokes.
The majority of people with ADHD have a combination treatment program that includes medication, psychosocial therapy as well as other treatments. Behavioral therapy can help teach techniques such as self-talk, anger management, and organizational skills to cope with the challenges of ADHD. Additionally, healthcare professionals can help by instructing supervisors and coworkers on ADHD and explaining how to work effectively with people who have the disorder. They can also help arrange accommodations at school and work to allow people with ADHD to succeed. Employers can be flexible with the way the work is assigned or permit workers to take breaks as they require. They can also give employees more time and provide a more detailed explanation of the assignment. This is particularly helpful when the employee is struggling to comprehend complex instructions or concepts. In these cases the employer may offer to train the employee on how to use assistive technology to help him or her keep pace with peers.