ADHD Medications For Adults

Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers that regulate the brain's attention. They are first-line medications in the treatment of ADHD. Although they are not to be taken regularly, they can have negative side effects, such as headaches and sleep problems.

To reduce hyperactivity or impulsivity, your doctor may prescribe guanfacine under brand names Tenex or Intuniv (Catapres). These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the drugs that are most effective adhd medication for adults commonly prescribed to treat ADHD. They help balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These are often the first medications that doctors prescribe to control symptoms for most people with adhd medication options. They can cause serious adverse effects, but they do not cure ADHD. Doctors typically prescribe different dosages and stimulants to determine the best combination for each individual. The aim is to find a medication for inattentive adhd that is effective in treating symptoms and has the fewest adverse effects and is safe to take long term.

The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brand names, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate assists in increasing the activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. It is available in 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 bloodstream for a longer period of time. It is a highly effective drug with low rates of dependence and abuse.

Certain people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these instances, doctors might prefer treating the disorder that is more severe first, and then see if it improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person suffering from depression major may be offered antidepressants prior to attempting stimulants. The same is true for tic and anxiety disorders. A doctor may prescribe clonidine or guanfacine instead of stimulants to a patient with Tourette's Syndrome or other symptoms of tics. These drugs work quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.

Stimulants can affect blood pressure and heart rate. They may also cause side effects such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old and should not be taken during breast-feeding or pregnancy. They should not be used by those who have a history of or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or an addiction history. These drugs are also not recommended for people with a history of strokes or seizures.

The majority of people with ADHD receive a combination of treatment that includes psychosocial therapy, medication or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can teach skills like organizational techniques, self-talk and anger management to help deal with the difficulties of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also help by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to work effectively alongside people with the disorder. They can also make accommodations at school and at work to help people who suffer from ADHD succeed. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible about how certain tasks are assigned or allow workers to take breaks as needed. They may also allow employees more time and provide a more detailed explanation of the assignment. This is especially beneficial for those who have difficulty understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these cases the employer may offer to train the employee to use assistive technology to assist them in keeping pace with peers.