Are You Making The Most You ADHD Medications For Adults?
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ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain that regulate attention. They are considered first-line medications for ADHD. They aren't thought to be a habit-forming drug, but they can trigger negative side effects, including headache and trouble sleeping.
Your doctor may also prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. These medications are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They are usually the first drugs that doctors test and are often used to control symptoms in most people with ADHD. They can have serious side effects, but they do not solve ADHD. Doctors prescribe different stimulants at different doses to determine which works best for the individual. The goal is to find a medication that manages symptoms with the fewest negative side consequences and is safe to take for the long-term.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's available under various brand names, including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate enhances brain activity areas that control attention and behaviour. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medication to be absorbed into the bloodstream over a longer period of time. It is a highly effective drug with low rates of dependence and abuse.
Some people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these instances, doctors might decide to treat the disorder that is more severe first and see if this improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person suffering from depression major may be offered antidepressants prior to attempting stimulants. The same is true for anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor might prescribe clonidine or guanfacine instead of stimulants for a person with Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders. These medications perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
The effects of stimulants can alter heart rate check here and blood pressure. They also can cause adverse effects, such as irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old and should not be taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding. People with an addiction history or bipolar disorder shouldn't use these medications. These medications are not recommended for those who have a history of strokes or seizures.
Most adults with ADHD receive a combination of treatment options that include medication, psychosocial therapy, or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills like self-talk, organization techniques and anger management in order to help with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating coworkers and supervisors about ADHD and how to effectively work with those suffering from the condition. They can also arrange for accommodations at work and school to allow those with ADHD to succeed. In some instances employers are willing to offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned, or let employees take breaks as they need. They can also provide more in-depth explanations of assignments and give employees more time to complete the assignments. This can be particularly helpful when the employee has trouble understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these situations employers may offer to instruct the employee to use assistive technology that can assist them in keeping up with peers.