ADHD Medications For AdultsStimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers that regulate the brain's attention. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. They aren't believed to be a habit-forming drug, but they can have negative side effects, including headache and trouble sleeping.
Your doctor may prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. These medications have a longer duration of action than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants. They balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are typically the first medications that doctors prescribe and they can reduce symptoms for the majority of people suffering from
adhd medication in uk. However, they can cause serious side effects and don't treat the condition. Doctors usually prescribe different doses of stimulants to determine what works best for each person. The goal is to find a medicine that is safe and efficient over the long term, while also reducing symptoms with a minimum of side effects.
The most common stimulant is methylphenidate, which is part of the class of medicines known as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under a variety of brands such as Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate increases brain activity areas that control attention and behaviour. It is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 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 an effective drug with a low rate of dependence and abuse.
Certain people with
safest adhd medication for adults suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these instances, doctors may prefer treating the more severe disorder to see whether it helps improve
new adhd medication uk symptoms. Antidepressants might be prescribed to patients with major depression prior to stimulants are tried. The same applies to anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor might prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants for a person who has Tourette's Syndrome or other disorders. These medications are less likely to cause drowsiness or depression and can be used quickly to reduce the symptoms of tics.
The effects of stimulants can alter heart rate and blood pressure. They may also cause adverse effects, such as irritability and headaches. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old and are not recommended during breast-feeding or pregnancy. They should not be taken by those who have a history of or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These medications are also not recommended for those with a history of seizures or strokes.
Most adults with ADHD have a combination treatment plan that includes medication and psychosocial therapy, as well as other behavioral treatments. Behavioral therapy can help in teaching techniques such as self-talk, anger management and organizational techniques to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Additionally, healthcare professionals can aid in instructing supervisors and coworkers on ADHD and explaining how to work effectively with people suffering from the disorder. They can also make accommodations at work and school to allow those with ADHD to succeed. In some cases employers will allow flexibility in how tasks are assigned or allow workers take breaks as needed. They may also offer more detailed explanations of assignments and allow employees longer to complete the assignments. This is particularly helpful if the worker struggles to grasp complicated instructions or concepts. In these instances, an employer might even offer to train the employee in using assistive technology that can aid in keeping pace with other employees.