ADHD Medications For Adults

Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers which control the brain's attention. They are considered first-line medications for ADHD. While they do not cause in any way habit-forming, they can trigger adverse effects like headaches and sleep problems.

To reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity the doctor could prescribe guanfacine under brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These medications have a longer acting than stimulants.

Stimulants

The most effective adhd medication commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They help balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These are often the first medications doctors prescribe, and they are able to reduce symptoms for the majority of people with ADHD. They can cause serious side effects, but they do not solve ADHD. Doctors prescribe different stimulants at different doses to determine which is the most effective for the individual. The aim is to find the drug that manages symptoms with the fewest adverse effects and is safe to use in the for the long-term.

The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate. It belongs to the category of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under several brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate enhances brain activity areas that control the behavior and attention. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified release tablets, which allow the medicine to be absorbed into the bloodstream slowly over a longer period. It is a very effective drug that has low rates of dependence and abuse.

Certain people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders. In these instances, doctors may prefer treating the more severe disorder to see whether it helps improve ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants might be prescribed to a patient who suffers from major depression before stimulants are tried. Similar is the case for anxiety and tic disorders. For example, a doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants to a person who suffers from Tourette's or other symptoms of tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness and depression and can be used quickly to ease the symptoms of tics.

Stimulant drugs can affect blood pressure and heart rate. They may also cause side effects such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old and are not recommended during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Anyone with a history of addiction or bipolar disorder should not use these medications. Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for those who suffer from strokes or seizures.

Most adults with ADHD receive a combination of treatment that includes psychosocial therapy, medication or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching strategies such as self-talk anger management, and organizational skills to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also assist by educating employees and supervisors about common adhd medications; see this here, and how to work effectively alongside people with the disorder. They can also provide accommodations at school and at work to help people with treat adhd without medication adults 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 allow employees more time and provide a more detailed explanation of the assignment. This is particularly helpful for those who struggle to grasp complex instructions or concepts. In these situations employers can offer to train employees to use assistive technologies that will help them keep up with their peers.