5 Killer Quora Answers To ADHD Medications For Adults

ADHD Medications For Adults

Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. Although they're not habit-forming, they can cause negative side effects, such as headaches and trouble sleeping.

Your doctor could also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are longer-acting than stimulants.

Stimulants

The most common medications used to treat adhd prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. They boost and balance levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. These are usually the first medications doctors prescribe and they can manage symptoms for most people with ADHD. They can cause serious adverse negative effects, but they can't solve ADHD. Doctors typically prescribe various stimulants and doses to find what works best for each person. The goal is to find a non medication treatment for adhd that is safe and efficient over the long term, while reducing symptoms with minimal adverse consequences.

The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate. It is part of the class of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brands, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate increases activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two to three times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the drug to be released into the bloodstream over a longer amount of time. It is a very effective drug with low rates of dependence and abuse.

Certain people with ADHD have other psychiatric conditions. In these cases, doctors may prefer to treat the disorder that is more severe first and see if this improves strattera adhd medication symptoms. Antidepressants might be prescribed to a patient who suffers from major depression before stimulants are considered. The same applies to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants for someone suffering from Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness or depression and can be used quickly to reduce the symptoms of tics.

Stimulant medicines can affect blood pressure and heart rate. They can also trigger side effects like irritability, headaches, trouble sleeping and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old. They should not be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. People who have a history of substance abuse or bipolar disorder shouldn't take these medications. These medications are also not recommended for people with a history of seizures or strokes.

Most adults with ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication and psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills like self-talk, organization techniques and anger management to assist with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also aid by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to effectively work with those suffering from the condition. They can also help arrange accommodations at work and school to make it easier for people with ADHD to achieve their goals. In some instances employers are willing to provide flexibility in the way certain tasks are assigned or allow employees take breaks as they need. They may also allow employees more time and provide a more detailed explanation of the task. This is especially beneficial for those who have difficulty understanding complex instructions or concepts. In such cases employers can offer to train employees to use assistive technology to help them keep up with their peers.