20 Tools That Will Make You Better At ADHD Medications For Adults

ADHD Medications For Adults

Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers which control attention in the brain. They are first-line medications in the treatment of ADHD. Although they are not in any way habit-forming, they can trigger adverse effects like headaches and trouble sleeping.

Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications have a longer duration of action than stimulants.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the drugs most often prescribed to treat ADHD. They balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. They are usually the first medications doctors try and are often able to reduce symptoms in most people with ADHD. They can cause serious adverse effects, but they do not cure ADHD. Doctors prescribe various stimulants in different doses to determine which is the most effective for the individual. The aim is to find a medicine that is safe and efficient over the long term, while also reducing symptoms with a minimum of adverse negative effects.

The most common stimulant is methylphenidate. It falls into the group of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under a variety of brands including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times a day) or modified release tablets that permit the medication to enter the bloodstream gradually over a longer time period. It is an effective drug that is low in dependence and abuse.

Some people with ADHD also have other psychiatric disorders. In these cases, doctors might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first and see if that helps to reduce safest adhd medication symptoms. Antidepressants can be prescribed to a person with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. The same goes remedies for adhd in adults tic and anxiety disorders. A doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants for a person with Tourette's Syndrome or other symptoms of tics. These medicines perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.

Stimulants can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also trigger adverse effects such as irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches and a decrease in appetite. They are generally not recommended for children less than 8 years old and should not be used during breastfeeding or pregnancy. People who have a history of substance abuse or bipolar and adhd medication disorder shouldn't take these medications. Additionally, these medications are not recommended for people who have a history of strokes or seizures.

Most adults with ADHD have a combination treatment program that includes medication, psychosocial therapy as well as other treatments. Behavioral therapy can teach techniques such as self-talk, anger management, and organizational skills to cope with the challenges of ADHD. In addition, healthcare professionals can aid in educating co-workers and supervisors about ADHD and demonstrating how to work effectively with those suffering from the disorder. They can also offer adjustments at school and at work to help students with ADHD succeed. In some instances employers are willing to provide flexibility in the way certain tasks are assigned or allow employees take breaks as they need. They may also allow employees more time and provide a more detailed explanation of the task. This can be particularly helpful for those who have difficulty understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these cases employers may offer to instruct the employee in using assistive technology that can help him or her keep pace with colleagues.