ADHD Medications For AdultsStimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers that regulate attention in the brain. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. They aren't thought to be habit-forming, but they can cause side effects, such as headache and trouble sleeping.
Your doctor may also prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications that are most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs that doctors test and are often used to control symptoms for people suffering from ADHD. However, they can have severe side effects and do not cure the disorder. Doctors prescribe various stimulants in different dosages to determine what is the most effective for the individual. The goal is to find the medication that controls symptoms with the fewest negative side effects and is safe to take in the long run.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate. It is part of the class of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brands, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate enhances brain activity areas that regulate the behavior and attention. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times a day) or modified release tablets, which allow the medicine to enter the bloodstream gradually over a longer period of time. It is a highly effective medication with low levels of addiction and misuse.
Some people who can prescribe adhd medication for adults suffer from ADHD also have other mental health disorders. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first, and then see if it helps to reduce inattentive adhd medication adults symptoms. For example, a patient suffering from depression major may be offered antidepressants prior to attempting stimulants. The same applies to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants for a person with Tourette's Syndrome or other symptoms of tics. These medications work quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Stimulants can alter blood pressure and heart rate. They can also cause adverse effects such as irritability, headaches, insomnia and a decrease in appetite. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old and should not be taken during breast-feeding or pregnancy. People who have a history of addiction or bipolar disorder shouldn't use them. Additionally, these medications are not recommended for patients who suffer from strokes or seizures.
Most people suffering from adhd medications are treated with a combination plan that includes medication for adhd and bipolar as well as psychosocial therapy, as well as other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching techniques such as self-talk, anger management, and organizational skills to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Additionally, healthcare professionals can aid in instructing supervisors and coworkers on stopping adhd medication adults and explaining how to effectively work with people suffering from the disorder. They can also arrange for accommodations at work and school to make it easier for those with ADHD to succeed. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible in the way certain tasks are assigned or allow workers to take breaks as they require. They can also give employees more time as well as provide more specific explanations of the task. This is especially helpful for those who struggle to comprehend complicated instructions or concepts. In these cases the employer may offer to train the employee to use assistive technology that will assist them in keeping up with other employees.