5 Killer Quora Answers On ADHD Medications For Adults
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ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants aid in adjusting the levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are regarded as the first-line treatment for ADHD. They aren't believed to be a habit-forming drug, but they can have negative side effects, including headaches and difficulty sleeping.
Your doctor might 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 frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are often the first medications doctors try and are often able to reduce symptoms in most people with ADHD. However, they can cause negative side effects that are serious and can't cure the disorder. Doctors prescribe different stimulants in different dosages to determine what is most effective for each person. The goal is to find a medication that controls symptoms with the fewest side consequences and is safe to use in the long term.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate. It is part of the class of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's available under various brands such as Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate assists in increasing the activity in the parts of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per 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 very efficient medication with low levels of abuse and addiction.
Some people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders. read more In these cases, the doctor might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first, and then see if it improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants might be prescribed to a person with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. The same is true for anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants to a patient who has Tourette's Syndrome or other tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness and depression and can be used quickly to help reduce the symptoms of tics.
The effects of stimulants can alter heart rate and blood pressure. They may also cause adverse effects, such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children under 8 years old. They should not be taken during breast-feeding or pregnancy. People with an addiction history or bipolar disorder shouldn't use them. These medications are not recommended for those with a history or seizures or strokes.
Most people suffering from ADHD receive a mix of treatment that includes psychosocial therapy, medication or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills like self-talk, organization techniques and anger management in order to help cope with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating employees and supervisors about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people with the disorder. They can also make accommodations at work and school to help people with ADHD to achieve their goals. Employers may be flexible about how the work is assigned or allow employees to take breaks as needed. They can also provide more detailed explanations of assignments and allow employees more time to complete the assignments. This is especially useful for those who struggle to grasp complex instructions or concepts. In these cases employers may offer to teach the employee to use assistive technology to aid in keeping pace with peers.