14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Afraid To Ask About ADHD Medications For Adults
ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers in the brain that regulate attention. They are considered to be the first-line medication to treat ADHD. most effective adhd medication for adults thought to be habit-forming, but they can cause side effects, such as headaches and difficulty sleeping.
To decrease impulsivity or hyperactivity Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine with the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These medications are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are usually the first drugs doctors will try and can often control symptoms for people suffering from ADHD. They can have serious adverse effects, but they do not solve ADHD. Doctors typically prescribe various dosages and stimulants to determine the one that is most suitable for each individual. The goal is to find a medication that controls symptoms with the least adverse consequences and is safe to use in the long term.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which is part of the class of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under several brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times a day) or modified release tablets that permit the medication to enter the bloodstream slowly over a longer period. It is a drug that works that is low in dependence and abuse.
Certain people with ADHD may also suffer from other mental health disorders. In these cases, doctors may prefer to treat the disorder that is more severe first and see if that helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person with major depression may be prescribed antidepressants prior to trying stimulants. The same goes for tic disorders and anxiety. For example, a doctor might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants for a person suffering from Tourette's syndrome or other disorders that cause tics. These medications are less likely to cause drowsiness and depressed mood and work quickly to help reduce the symptoms of tics.
Stimulant medicines can affect heart rate and blood pressure. They can also trigger negative side effects like irritability sleep disturbances, headaches and a decrease in appetite. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old. They should not be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. They should not be used by people who have a history or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or an addiction history. In addition, these medications are not recommended for people who have a history of seizures or strokes.
Most people suffering from ADHD receive a mix of treatments that include psychosocial therapy, medication, or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can teach you skills like organizational techniques, self-talk and anger management to help with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also aid by educating coworkers and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside those suffering from the condition. They can also offer adjustments at school and at work to help students who suffer from ADHD succeed. In some cases, employers are willing to provide flexibility in the way certain tasks are assigned or allow workers take breaks when needed. They can also provide more in-depth explanations of assignments and allow employees more time to complete them. This is especially useful when the employee is struggling to grasp complicated instructions or concepts. In these situations employers may offer to train the employee in using assistive technology that will help him or her keep pace with other employees.