Then You've Found Your ADHD Medications For Adults ... Now What?
ADHD Medications For Adults Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control the brain's attention. They are the first line of treatment in the treatment of ADHD. While they do not cause habit-forming, they can cause adverse effects like headaches and sleep problems. Your doctor might 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 Stimulants are the medications most often prescribed to treat ADHD. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs that doctors test and can often control symptoms in most people with ADHD. They can have serious side effects, but they do not cure ADHD. Doctors usually prescribe different dosages and stimulants to determine the best combination for each person. The aim is to find a medication that is safe and effective for long-term use, while reducing symptoms with minimal adverse negative effects. The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which is part of the class of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It's sold under many brands including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken between 2 and 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medicine to be released into the bloodstream for a longer period of time. It is a very efficient medication with low levels of dependence and abuse. Some people with ADHD also have other mental health disorders. In these cases, doctors might decide to treat the more severe disorder first and see if this helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants might be prescribed to a patient with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. The same applies to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants to a person with Tourette's syndrome or other tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness or depression and are able to work quickly to help reduce the symptoms of tics. The effects of stimulants can alter heart rate and blood pressure. They may also cause negative effects like irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old. They should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They should not be used by people with a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. Additionally, these drugs are not recommended for patients who have a history of seizures or strokes. Most people suffering from ADHD receive a mix of treatments that include medication, psychosocial therapy, or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can teach skills such as self-talk, anger management, and other organizational strategies to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also assist by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively with people suffering from the condition. I Am Psychiatry can also help arrange accommodations at work and school to allow people suffering from ADHD to succeed. In some instances employers are willing to allow flexibility in how tasks are assigned or let workers take breaks when needed. They can also provide more detailed explanations of tasks and give employees more time to complete the assignments. This is especially beneficial if the worker has difficulty understanding complicated instructions or concepts. In such situations employers might offer to train employees to use assistive technology that can help them keep up with their peers.