ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are able to regulate the levels of chemical messengers which control attention in the brain. They are considered to be the first-line medication to treat ADHD. They aren't considered to be habit-forming, but they can trigger negative side effects, including headaches and difficulty sleeping.
medication for adult adhd could prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most common medications prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. They improve and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first medications doctors try and are often used to control symptoms in people with ADHD. However, they can also cause negative side effects that are serious and can't treat the condition. Doctors prescribe different stimulants at different dosages to determine what is the most effective for the individual. The goal is to find a medicine that is safe and efficient over the long term, while controlling symptoms with minimal side effects.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It is available under a variety of brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate increases activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken two to three times a day) or modified release tablets that permit the medication to enter the bloodstream slowly over a longer period of time. It is a drug that works with a low rate of dependence and abuse.
Some people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the more severe disorder first and see if that helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants may be prescribed to patients with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. The same is true for anxiety disorders and tic disorders. For example, a doctor might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants to a person suffering from Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness and depression and can be used quickly to help reduce the symptoms of tics.
Stimulant medications can affect the blood pressure and heart rate. They may also cause negative effects like headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children younger than 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. In addition, these medications are not recommended for those who have a history of strokes or seizures.
The majority of people with ADHD are treated with a combination of treatments that include psychosocial therapy, medication or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can teach skills like self-talk, organization techniques and anger management to assist deal with the difficulties of living with ADHD. Additionally, healthcare professionals can aid in educating co-workers and supervisors about ADHD and explaining how to effectively work with those suffering from the condition. They can also make adjustments at school and at work to help people who suffer from ADHD succeed. Employers may be flexible about how the work is assigned or permit workers to take breaks as they require. They may also allow employees more time as well as provide more specific explanations of the assignment. This is particularly helpful for those who struggle to understand complex instructions or concepts. In these situations, employers may provide training to employees to use assistive technology to help them keep up with their peers.