ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain, which control attention. They are the first line of treatment in the treatment of ADHD. While they do not cause to be taken regularly, they can have negative side effects, such as headaches and difficulty sleeping.
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 drugs most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They improve and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are usually the first medications doctors try and are often able to reduce symptoms for people suffering from ADHD. They can cause serious side effects, but they don't solve ADHD. Doctors typically prescribe different dosages and stimulants to determine the best combination for each individual. The aim is to find a medication that controls symptoms with the least negative side negative effects and is safe to use in the for the long-term.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brands, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate aids in increasing activity in parts of the brain that control attention and behavior. 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 slowly over the counter adhd medication for adults a longer time period. It is a highly effective drug that is low in dependence and abuse.
Certain people with ADHD are also suffering from other psychiatric disorders. In these cases, doctors 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. Similar is the case for tic disorders and anxiety. A doctor may prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants for a person who has Tourette's Syndrome or other symptoms of tics. These medications are less likely to cause drowsiness and depressed mood and work quickly to reduce the symptoms of tics.
Stimulants can alter blood pressure and heart rate. They can also have negative effects like irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for children less than 8 years old. They should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. They should not be taken by those who have a history of or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These drugs are also not recommended for people with a history of strokes or seizures.
Most adults with ADHD are treated with a combination program that includes medication, psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can teach skills such as self-talk, anger management and organizational techniques to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Additionally, healthcare professionals can assist by instructing supervisors and coworkers on ADHD and explaining how to work effectively with people suffering from the condition. They can a general practitioner prescribe adhd medication also make accommodations at school and at work to help people with ADHD succeed. In some cases, employers are willing where to get prescribed adhd medication offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned or allow workers take breaks when needed. They can also provide more detailed explanations of tasks and allow employees longer to complete the tasks. This can be particularly helpful when the employee has trouble understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these instances employers may offer to teach the employee to use assistive technology to aid in keeping up with peers.