The Largest Issue That Comes With ADHD Medications For Adults, And How You Can Fix It

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ADHD Medications For Adults

Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers that regulate the brain's attention. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. They aren't thought to be habit-forming, but they can cause negative side effects, including headache and trouble sleeping.

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

Stimulants

The most common medications prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These are often the first drugs that doctors prescribe, and they are able to manage symptoms for most people with ADHD. However, they can also cause serious side effects and don't solve the problem. Doctors prescribe various stimulants in different doses to determine which works best for the individual. The goal is to find a medication that is safe and efficient over the long term, while controlling symptoms with minimal adverse effects.

The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's sold under many brand names including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate increases activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified release tablets that permit the medication to be absorbed into the bloodstream slowly over a longer time period. It is a highly effective drug that has low rates of dependence and abuse.

Certain people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the more severe disorder to see whether it improves ADHD symptoms. For example, a patient with major depression may be offered antidepressants prior to attempting stimulants. The same goes for anxiety and tic disorders. A doctor can prescribe clonidine or guanfacine instead of stimulants to a person with Tourette's Syndrome or other tics. These medications are less likely to cause drowsiness and depression and are able to work quickly to help reduce the symptoms of tics.

The effects of stimulants can alter blood pressure and heart rate. They may also cause negative effects like headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old. They are not recommended during breast-feeding or pregnancy. They should not be used by people with a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These medications are not recommended for those with a history of strokes or seizures.

The majority of people with ADHD receive a combination of treatment options that include medication, psychosocial therapy, or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can teach skills such as self-talk, anger management, and other organizational strategies to cope more info with the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also assist by educating coworkers and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people with the disorder. They can also help arrange adjustments at work and in school to make it easier for people suffering from ADHD to achieve their goals. In some instances, employers are willing to provide flexibility in the way certain tasks are assigned or let employees take breaks as they need. They can also offer employees more time and provide a more detailed explanation of the task. This is especially beneficial if the worker has difficulty understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these cases the employer may offer to train the employee to use assistive technology to help him or her keep the pace of colleagues.