adhd medications for adults (
supplemental resources)
Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are the first line of treatment to treat ADHD. Although they are not habit-forming, they can cause adverse effects like headaches and difficulty sleeping.
Your doctor might also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most common medications prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs that doctors test and are often used to control symptoms in people with
adhd medication ritalin. However, they can also cause serious side effects and don't treat the condition. Doctors typically prescribe different dosages and stimulants to determine the best combination for each person. The goal is to find a medication that manages symptoms with the fewest side effects and is safe to take long term.
The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is available under a variety of brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate assists in increasing the activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken two to three times per day) or modified release tablets that allow the medicine to be absorbed into the bloodstream slowly over a longer period of time. It is a drug that works that is low in addiction and abuse.
Certain people with ADHD are also suffering from other psychiatric disorders. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the more severe disorder to determine if it improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a patient with major depression may be prescribed antidepressants prior to trying stimulants. The same is true for anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor can prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants to a patient who has Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders. These medications are less likely to cause drowsiness or depression and can be used quickly to help reduce the symptoms of tics.
Stimulants can alter the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also trigger negative side effects like irritability sleep disturbances, headaches and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old and should not be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. They should not be used by people who have a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or a history of addiction. These medications are not recommended for people who have a history of seizures or strokes.
The majority of people with
does adhd medication work receive a mix of treatment that includes psychosocial therapy, medication, or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can help teach techniques such as self-talk, anger management, and
adhd Medications for adults organizational skills to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Additionally, healthcare professionals can help by educating co-workers and supervisors about ADHD and explaining
how does medication for adhd work to work effectively with people who have the disorder. They can also offer accommodations at school and at work to help those who suffer from ADHD succeed. In some cases employers will offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned or let workers take breaks when needed. They may also allow employees more time and offer an explanation that is more thorough of the task. This can be especially helpful for those who have difficulty understanding complicated instructions or concepts. In these situations employers might provide training to employees to use assistive technologies that will aid them in keeping up with their peers.
