ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control the brain's attention. They are the first line of treatment for treating ADHD. They aren't thought to be a habit-forming drug, but they can have adverse effects, like headaches and sleep problems.
To decrease adhd depression medication or hyperactivity the doctor could prescribe guanfacine under the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These medications have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most common medications prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. They increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These are usually the first drugs that doctors prescribe, and they are able to control symptoms for most people suffering from ADHD. However, they can also cause serious side effects and don't cure the disorder. Doctors prescribe different stimulants at different dosages to determine what works best for the individual. The aim is to find the drug that manages symptoms with the least amount of side negative effects and is safe to use in the long run.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under several brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate enhances brain activity areas that control attention and behaviour. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times per day) or modified release tablets, which allow the medicine to enter the bloodstream slowly over a longer period of time. It is an effective drug with a low rate of addiction and abuse.
Some people who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders. In these instances, doctors might decide to treat the more severe disorder first, and then see if it helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person suffering from depression major may be offered antidepressants prior to attempting stimulants. Similar is the case for tic disorders and anxiety. A doctor might prescribe clonidine or guanfacine instead of stimulants to a patient with Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders. These medicines perform quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant drugs can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also trigger adverse effects such as irritability, headaches, trouble sleeping and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old. They should not be used during breastfeeding or pregnancy. They should not be used by those who have a history of or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or an addiction history. Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for those who have a history of seizures or strokes.
Most adults with ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication and psychosocial therapy as well as other treatments. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching skills such as self-talk, anger management, and other organizational strategies to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people with the disorder. They can also help arrange adjustments at work and in school to allow people suffering from ADHD to succeed. In some cases employers are willing to offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned or allow employees take breaks as they need. They can also provide more detailed explanations of assignments and allow employees more time to complete the assignments. This is especially useful if the worker struggles to understand complex instructions or concepts. In such situations, employers may offer to train employees to use assistive technologies that will aid them in keeping up with their peers.