Five Killer Quora Answers On ADHD Medications For Adults
ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain that control attention. They are first-line medications to treat ADHD. They aren't thought to be habit-forming, however they can have negative side effects, including headaches and difficulty sleeping.
Your doctor may also prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for adhd and depression medication are stimulants. They regulate and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are often the first drugs that doctors test and can often control symptoms in most people with ADHD. However, they can have negative side effects that are serious and can't treat the condition. Doctors prescribe various stimulants in different doses to determine which is the most effective for the individual. The goal is to find a drug that is safe and effective for long-term use, while reducing symptoms with minimal adverse negative effects.
The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate. It falls into the group of medicines referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is available under a variety of brand names including Adderall, Ritalin and others. Methylphenidate increases brain activity areas that control attention and behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the drug to be released into bloodstream for a longer period of time. It is a highly effective drug that is low in dependence and abuse.
Some people who suffer from ADHD have other psychiatric conditions. In these cases, doctors might decide to treat the disorder that is more severe first, and then see if it improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a person with major depression may be prescribed antidepressants prior to trying stimulants. Similar is the case for anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor may prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants for a person with Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders. These drugs perform quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant drugs can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also cause side effects like irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches and a decrease in appetite. They are not recommended for children younger than 8 years old. They should not be taken during breastfeeding or pregnancy. People with a history of substance abuse or bipolar disorder should not use them. These medications are not recommended for those who have a history of seizures or strokes.
Most people suffering from ADHD receive a mix of treatments that include psychosocial therapy, best medication for adhd and anxiety or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can teach skills such as self-talk, anger management and organizational techniques to deal with the difficulties of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can assist by teaching supervisors and coworkers about ADHD and demonstrating how does medication for adhd work to work effectively with those suffering from the disorder. They can also offer accommodations at work and school to help people with ADHD succeed. Employers may be flexible about how certain tasks are assigned, or allow workers to take breaks when they need. They may also offer more in-depth explanations of assignments and give employees more time to complete them. This is especially beneficial if the worker has difficulty understanding complex instructions or concepts. In these instances employers may offer to instruct the employee to use assistive technology to aid in keeping the pace of colleagues.
