10 Things Everybody Hates About ADHD Medications For Adults
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ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. While they do not cause in any way habit-forming, they can trigger negative side effects, such as headaches and sleep problems.
To reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity, your doctor may prescribe guanfacine under brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs have a longer acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs that doctors test and can often control symptoms in people with ADHD. However, they can have serious side effects and don't solve the problem. Doctors typically prescribe various dosages and stimulants to determine the best combination for each individual. The goal is to find a drug that is safe and effective for long-term use, while reducing symptoms with minimal side consequences.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the drug to be absorbed into the bloodstream over a longer period of time. It is a highly effective drug that is low in abuse and addiction.
Some people with ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders. In these instances, doctors may prefer treating the more severe disorder to determine whether it improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants might be prescribed to patients who has major depression before stimulants are considered. The same is true for tic disorders and anxiety. For example, 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 medications work quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
Stimulants can affect blood pressure and heart rate. They can also trigger adverse effects such as irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches and a decrease in appetite. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old. They should not be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. They should not be taken by people with a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These medications are also not recommended for those with a history or strokes or seizures.
Most adults with ADHD have a treatment program that includes medication, psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can teach skills like organizational techniques, self-talk and anger management to help deal with the difficulties of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can assist by instructing supervisors and coworkers on ADHD and explaining how to work effectively with those suffering from the condition. They can also make accommodations at school and work to make it easier for people suffering from ADHD to achieve their click here goals. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible with the way certain tasks are assigned or permit workers to take breaks as they require. They can also provide more in-depth explanations of assignments and allow employees longer to complete them. This is especially useful if the worker struggles to comprehend complicated instructions or concepts. In these cases the employer may offer to instruct the employee to use assistive technology that can aid in keeping pace with colleagues.