ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants aid in adjusting the levels of chemical messengers in the brain that regulate attention. They are considered to be the first-line medication in the treatment of ADHD. Although they are not to be taken regularly, they can have negative side effects, such as headaches and difficulty sleeping.
To decrease impulsivity or hyperactivity the doctor could prescribe guanfacine under the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs are longer-acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications that are most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These are usually the first medications that doctors prescribe, and they are able to manage symptoms for most people suffering from ADHD. However, they can cause severe side effects and do not solve the problem. Doctors prescribe different stimulants in different dosages to determine what works best for the individual. The goal is to find a drug that is safe and effective for long-term use, while controlling symptoms with minimal adverse negative effects.
The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate. It belongs to the category of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brand names, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in areas of the brain 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 be absorbed into the bloodstream slowly over a longer period of time. It is an effective drug that is low in abuse and addiction.
Some people who suffer from ADHD have other psychiatric conditions. In these cases, doctors might prefer treating the more severe disorder first and see if this improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants may be prescribed to patients who has major depression before stimulants are considered. The same is true for tic and anxiety disorders. A doctor may prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants to a patient with Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders. These medicines perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
Stimulants can alter blood pressure and heart rate. They may also cause negative effects like headaches and irritability. They are generally not recommended for children under 8 years old and should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. medication for adhd uk with a history of addiction or bipolar disorder shouldn't use them. Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for patients who have a history of strokes or seizures.
Most people suffering from ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication as well as psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching strategies such as self-talk anger management and organizational techniques to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also assist by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to effectively work with people with the condition. They can also make accommodations at work and school to help people with ADHD succeed. Employers may be flexible with the way the work is assigned or permit workers to take breaks when they need. They may also allow employees more time and provide more specific explanations of the task. This is especially useful for those who struggle to comprehend complicated instructions or concepts. In these instances the employer may offer to teach the employee to use assistive technology to aid in keeping the pace of colleagues.