20 Things You Must Know About ADHD Medications For Adults
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ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers that regulate the brain's attention. They are first-line medications to treat ADHD. They aren't believed to be habit-forming, however they can cause side effects, such as headache and trouble sleeping.
To decrease impulsivity or hyperactivity, your doctor may prescribe guanfacine under brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs have a longer acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They improve and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs doctors will try and can often control symptoms in people with ADHD. They can have serious adverse effects, but they don't solve ADHD. Doctors prescribe different stimulants in different dosages to determine what is most effective for each person. The goal is to find a medication that is effective in treating symptoms and has the fewest adverse effects and is safe to take for the long-term.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which 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 increases brain activity areas 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 allow the medicine to enter the bloodstream gradually over a longer time period. It is a very efficient drug with low rates of addiction and misuse.
Certain people with ADHD have other psychiatric conditions. In these cases, the doctor might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first, and then see if it improves ADHD symptoms. For example, a patient with major depression may check here be offered antidepressants prior to attempting stimulants. The same is true for anxiety and tic disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants for someone suffering from Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These medicines perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant medicines can affect heart rate and blood pressure. They may also cause adverse effects, such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old and should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They should not be used by people with a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for those who have a history of strokes or seizures.
Most adults with ADHD receive a combination of treatment options that include psychosocial therapy, medication, or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can teach skills like self-talk, organization techniques and anger management to help with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people with the condition. They can also make accommodations at work and school to help people with ADHD succeed. In some cases employers will allow flexibility in how tasks are assigned, or let employees take breaks as they need. They may also offer more detailed explanations of assignments and allow employees more time to complete them. This is especially helpful for those who struggle to grasp complicated instructions or concepts. In these situations, employers may provide training to employees to use assistive technologies to aid them in keeping up with their peers.