ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are able to regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control attention in the brain. They are considered first-line medications for ADHD. They aren't believed to be habit-forming, however they can trigger adverse effects, like headaches and difficulty sleeping.
To reduce impulsivity or hyperactivity the doctor could prescribe guanfacine under the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These medications are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They help balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. adhd medications uk I Am Psychiatry are typically the first medications that doctors prescribe, and they are able to reduce symptoms for the majority of people with ADHD. However, they can have negative side effects that are serious and can't solve the problem. Doctors prescribe different stimulants in different doses to see what is most effective for each person. The aim is to find a drug that is safe and effective for long-term use, while controlling symptoms with minimal adverse negative effects.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under several brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate aids in increasing activity in the parts of the brain that control 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 a very effective drug with low rates of addiction and misuse.
Some people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders. In these cases, the doctor might prefer treating the more severe disorder first and see if that helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants can be prescribed to patients who has major depression before stimulants are tried. The same is true for anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor may prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants to a patient who has Tourette's Syndrome or other tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness and depression and are able to work quickly to reduce the symptoms of tics.
Stimulant drugs can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They also can cause negative effects like 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 taken by people with a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These medications are not recommended for people who have a history of strokes or seizures.
Most people suffering from ADHD are treated with a combination of treatment options that include medication, psychosocial therapy, or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching skills such as self-talk, anger management and organizational techniques to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also aid by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively with those suffering from the condition. They can also make adjustments at school and at work to help students with ADHD succeed. In some instances, employers are willing to offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned, or let workers take breaks when needed. They may also offer more detailed explanations of tasks and allow employees longer to complete them. This is particularly helpful if the worker struggles to grasp complex instructions or concepts. In these cases the employer may offer to train the employee to use assistive technology to assist them in keeping pace with colleagues.