adhd medications for adults (Technetbloggers published a blog post)
Stimulants are able to regulate the levels of chemical messengers that regulate attention in the brain. They are considered to be the first-line medication in the treatment of ADHD. Although they're not to be taken regularly, they can have adverse effects like headaches and sleep problems.
Your doctor could also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the drugs that are that are most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs that doctors prescribe and they can reduce symptoms for the majority of people with intuitive adhd medication. However, they can also cause negative side effects that are serious and can't treat the condition. Doctors prescribe different 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 also reducing symptoms with a minimum of side effects.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate increases activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times a 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 highly effective drug with low rates of dependence and abuse.
Some people who suffer from ADHD are also suffering from other psychiatric disorders. In these cases, doctors might prefer treating the more severe disorder first, and then see if it improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants may be prescribed to a patient who suffers from major depression before stimulants are tried. The same goes for tic and anxiety disorders. A doctor can prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants for a person who has Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders. These drugs work quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant medications can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also have adverse effects, such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old and 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 not recommended for people who have a history of strokes or seizures.
Most people suffering from ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication as well as psychosocial therapy or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills such as self-talk, anger management, and other organizational strategies to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also aid by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside those suffering from the disorder. They can also make accommodations at work and school to help people with ADHD succeed. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible about how certain tasks are assigned or permit workers to take breaks when they need. They can also give employees more time as well as provide a more detailed explanation of the task. This is especially helpful for those who struggle to understand complicated instructions or concepts. In such cases employers might provide training to employees to use assistive technologies to assist them in keeping pace with their peers.