What You Should Be Focusing On Improving ADHD Medications For Adults
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ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are able to regulate the levels of chemical messengers that regulate attention in the brain. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. They aren't considered to be habit-forming, however they can cause adverse effects, like headaches and sleep problems.
To reduce impulsivity or hyperactivity, your doctor may prescribe guanfacine with the brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These are often the first drugs that doctors prescribe, and they are able to control symptoms for most people suffering from ADHD. However, they can cause severe side effects and do not cure the disorder. Doctors prescribe different stimulants at different doses to determine which is the most effective for the individual. The aim is to find a drug that is safe and effective for long-term use, while also reducing symptoms with a minimum of adverse negative effects.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It's available under various brands, including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in areas 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 enter the bloodstream slowly over a longer period. It is a very effective drug that has low rates of addiction and misuse.
Certain people with ADHD also have other psychiatric disorders. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the more severe disorder to determine whether it improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person with major depression may be offered antidepressants before trying stimulants. The same applies to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor can prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants for a person who has Tourette's Syndrome or other symptoms of tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness or depression and are able to work quickly to ease the symptoms of tics.
Stimulants can alter the heart rate and blood pressure. They may also cause adverse effects, such as irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old and should not be taken during breastfeeding or pregnancy. They should not be taken by people with a history or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or a history of addiction. These medications are also not recommended for those who have a history of seizures or strokes.
Most people suffering from ADHD receive a combination of treatments that include psychosocial therapy, medication, or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can teach skills like organizational techniques, self-talk and anger management to help deal with the difficulties of living with here ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also aid by educating coworkers and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside those suffering from the disorder. They can also make accommodations at work and school to help those with ADHD succeed. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible with the way certain tasks are assigned, or allow employees to take breaks as needed. They may also allow employees more time and offer more specific explanations of the assignment. This is especially helpful if the worker struggles to grasp complicated instructions or concepts. In these cases the employer may offer to train the employee on how to use assistive technology that will help him or her keep up with peers.