Five Killer Quora Answers On ADHD Medications For Adults
ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants aid in adjusting the levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are considered first-line medications for adhd medication names. They aren't believed to be habit-forming, but they can trigger side effects, such as headaches and difficulty sleeping.
Your doctor could prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs are longer-acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications used for adhd most often prescribed to treat ADHD. They increase and regulate levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. They are typically the first drugs that doctors test and are often used to control symptoms for people suffering from safest adhd medication. However, they can also cause serious side effects and don't treat the condition. Doctors prescribe different stimulants at different doses to see what works best for the individual. The goal is to find a medication that controls symptoms with the least adverse consequences and is safe to use for the long-term.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which falls into the group of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under various brand names, including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in the parts of the brain that regulate 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 medication to be released into bloodstream over a longer period of time. It is a drug that works with a low rate of dependence and abuse.
Some people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these instances, doctors may prefer treating the more severe disorder to see whether it helps improve ADHD symptoms. For example, a patient suffering from depression major may be offered antidepressants before trying stimulants. The same is true for tic disorders and anxiety. A doctor can 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 to cause drowsiness.
Stimulants can alter blood pressure and heart rate. They can also have adverse effects, such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old. They should not be taken during breastfeeding or pregnancy. They should not be used by people who have a history or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These medications are not recommended for people with a history or strokes or seizures.
Most adults with ADHD receive a mix of treatment options that include medication, psychosocial therapy, or other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can 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 people suffering from the disorder. They can also help arrange accommodations at work and school to allow 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 can also provide more detailed explanations of tasks and allow employees longer to complete them. This is especially useful for those who can prescribe adhd medication struggle to understand complicated instructions or concepts. In these situations, employers may provide training to employees to use assistive technology that can assist them in keeping pace with their peers.