ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers that regulate the brain's attention. They are considered to be the first-line medication for treating ADHD. They aren't thought to be a habit-forming drug, but 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 reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs most often prescribed to treat ADHD. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs that doctors test and are often used to control symptoms in most people with ADHD. However, they can also cause negative side effects that are serious and can't cure the disorder. Doctors usually prescribe different dosages and stimulants to determine the one that is most suitable for each individual. The goal is to find the medication that controls symptoms with the least adverse negative effects and is safe to take long term.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate. It is part of the class of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's available under various brand names, including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate assists in increasing the activity in the parts of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medicine to be released into the bloodstream over a longer amount of time. It is a highly effective medication with low levels of dependence and abuse.
Some people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these instances, doctors may prefer treating the more severe disorder to determine whether it helps improve ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants might be prescribed to patients who suffers from major depression before stimulants are tried. The same goes for tic disorders and anxiety. For example, a doctor might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants for someone suffering from Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness or depressed mood and work quickly to help reduce the symptoms of tics.
most effective adhd medication for adults can affect heart rate and blood pressure. They also can cause negative effects like irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old. They should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Anyone with a history of substance abuse or bipolar disorder should not use them. Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for those who suffer from seizures or strokes.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with a combination of treatment options that include medication, psychosocial therapy, or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching techniques such as self-talk, anger management and organizational techniques to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. In addition, healthcare professionals can assist by educating co-workers and supervisors about ADHD and explaining how to effectively work with people suffering from the disorder. They can also provide accommodations at school and at work to help students who suffer from ADHD succeed. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible about how certain tasks are assigned, or permit workers to take breaks as needed. They may also offer more in-depth explanations of assignments and give employees more time to complete them. This is especially helpful for those who struggle to understand complicated instructions or concepts. In these situations employers can offer to help employees learn to use assistive technology to aid them in keeping up with their peers.