ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are able to regulate the levels of chemical messengers that regulate attention in the brain. They are the first line of treatment to treat ADHD. Although they're not habit-forming, they can cause adverse effects like headaches and difficulty sleeping.
Your doctor might also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They improve and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These are usually the first medications that doctors prescribe and they can control symptoms for most people suffering from ADHD. However, they can have serious side effects and don't cure the disorder. Doctors prescribe various stimulants in different doses to determine which works best for the individual. have a peek at this site is to find the medication that manages symptoms with the fewest side effects and is safe to take for the long-term.
The most well-known 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 helps to increase activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken two to three times per day) or modified release tablets, which permit the medication to enter the bloodstream slowly over a longer period of time. It is a highly effective drug with low rates of dependence and abuse.
Some people with ADHD have other psychiatric conditions. In these cases, the doctor might decide to treat the more severe disorder first, and then see if it improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a patient with major depression may be offered antidepressants prior to attempting stimulants. The same applies to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. For example, a doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants for someone who suffers from Tourette's or other symptoms of tics. These medications perform quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
The effects of stimulants can alter blood pressure and heart rate. They can also trigger negative side effects like irritability headaches, trouble sleeping and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old and should not be used during breast-feeding or pregnancy. People with a history of addiction or bipolar disorder shouldn't use these medications. Additionally, these medications are not recommended for patients who have a history of strokes or seizures.
Most adults with ADHD have a combination treatment program that includes medication, psychosocial therapy, as well as other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can teach skills such as self-talk, anger management, and organizational skills to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to effectively work with people suffering from the disorder. They can also arrange for accommodations at school and work to allow people suffering from ADHD to achieve their goals. Employers can be flexible in the way the work is assigned or allow workers to take breaks as they require. They can also offer employees more time and provide more specific explanations of the assignment. This is especially useful if the worker struggles to comprehend complex instructions or concepts. In such cases, employers may offer to help employees learn to use assistive technologies that can assist them in keeping pace with their peers.