20 Fun Facts About ADHD Medications For Adults

ADHD Medications For Adults

Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers which control attention in the brain. They are considered first-line medications for ADHD. They aren't considered to be habit-forming, but they can trigger negative side effects, including headache and trouble sleeping.

Your doctor may prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs have a longer acting than stimulants.

Stimulants

The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They help balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first medications doctors try and can often control symptoms in people with ADHD. However, they can have severe side effects and do not solve the problem. Doctors prescribe different stimulants in different dosages to determine what works best for the individual. The aim is to find a medication that is safe and efficient over the long term, while reducing symptoms with minimal side consequences.

The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's available under various brands such as Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate enhances brain activity areas that regulate the behavior and attention. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times per day) or modified release tablets that permit the medication to enter the bloodstream gradually over a longer period of time. It is an effective drug that has low rates of dependence and abuse.

Certain people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders. In these instances, doctors may prefer to treat the disorder that is more severe first and see if that improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person with major depression may be prescribed antidepressants prior to trying stimulants. Similar is the case for tic disorders and anxiety. A doctor can prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants for a person with Tourette's Syndrome or other symptoms of tics. These medications perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.

Stimulant medications can affect the blood pressure and heart rate. They can also have negative effects like headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old and should not be taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding. They should not be taken by people with a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or a history of addiction. These medications are also not recommended for those who have a history of strokes or seizures.

The majority of people with ADHD are treated with a combination of treatment that includes psychosocial therapy, medication or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can teach strategies such as self-talk anger management, and organizational skills to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also aid by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people suffering from the disorder. They can also help arrange accommodations at school and work to allow people suffering from ADHD to succeed. In some instances, employers are willing to offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned or let workers take breaks when needed.  medications for adhd in adults  may also offer more detailed explanations of assignments and give employees more time to complete the tasks. This can be especially helpful if the worker has difficulty understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these situations, an employer might even offer to teach the employee on how to use assistive technology to help him or her keep pace with colleagues.