Five Things Everybody Does Wrong About ADHD Medications For Adults
ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain that regulate attention. They are considered to be the first-line medication for treating ADHD. They aren't believed to be habit-forming, but they can have side effects, such as headaches and sleep problems.
Your doctor could prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs have a longer acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These are usually the first medications doctors prescribe, and they are able to reduce symptoms for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. However, they can also cause negative side effects that are serious and can't treat the condition. Doctors usually prescribe different dosages and stimulants to determine the one that is most suitable for each person. The goal is to find a medication that manages symptoms with the least negative side effects and is safe to use in the long run.
The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate. It belongs to the category of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's sold under many brand names including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate assists in increasing the activity in parts of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two to three times a day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medicine to be absorbed into the bloodstream for a longer period of time. It is a highly effective drug that is low in abuse and addiction.
Certain people with ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first and see if this helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person who suffers from major depression might be offered antidepressants before trying stimulants. adhd for adults medication goes for tic disorders and anxiety. For instance, a doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants for someone with Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These medicines perform quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant medications can affect the blood pressure and heart rate. They can also cause negative side effects like irritability headaches, insomnia and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old and should not be taken during breastfeeding or pregnancy. People with a history of substance abuse or bipolar disorder shouldn't take them. Additionally, these medications are not recommended for people who suffer from seizures or strokes.
Most adults with ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication as well as psychosocial therapy as well as other treatments. Behavioral therapy can help teach strategies such as self-talk anger management, and other organizational strategies to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can help by teaching supervisors and coworkers about ADHD and explaining how to effectively work with people suffering from the condition. They can also provide accommodations at school and at work to help people who suffer from ADHD succeed. In some instances, employers are willing to offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned, or let workers take breaks as needed. They can also offer employees more time as well as provide an explanation that is more thorough of the assignment. This can be especially helpful when the employee has trouble understanding complicated instructions or concepts. In such cases, employers may offer to train employees to use assistive technology to aid them in keeping up with their peers.