medication for adhd in adults For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers in the brain, which control attention. They are first-line medications in the treatment of ADHD. Although they're not to be taken regularly, they can have adverse effects like headaches and difficulty sleeping.
Your doctor might prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are longer-acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the drugs that are most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They improve and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs doctors will try and are often able to reduce symptoms in people with ADHD. They can have serious side effects, but they do not solve ADHD. Doctors typically prescribe different stimulants and doses to find the best combination for each individual. The goal is to find a medication that is safe and efficient for long-term use while controlling symptoms with minimal adverse effects.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It is available under a variety of brand names, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate increases brain activity areas that control attention and behaviour. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken between 2 and 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medicine to be released into the bloodstream over a longer amount of time. It is a very effective medication with low levels of addiction and misuse.
Certain people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders. In these cases, the doctor might decide to treat the disorder that is more severe first and see if this improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants can be prescribed to a patient with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. adhd medications for adults to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. For instance, a doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants for a person who suffers from Tourette's or other disorders that cause tics. These medicines perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
The effects of stimulants can alter heart rate and blood pressure. They may also cause side effects such as irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old and should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They should not be used by those who have a history of or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or a history of addiction. These drugs are also not recommended for those who have a history of seizures or strokes.
Most people suffering from ADHD are treated with a combination program that includes medication, psychosocial therapy, as well as other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching techniques such as self-talk, anger management and organizational techniques to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively with people with the disorder. They can also arrange for accommodations at work and 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 workers take breaks when needed. They may also offer 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 complicated instructions or concepts. In such situations employers might provide training to employees to use assistive technology to help them keep up with their peers.