10 Things Everybody Gets Wrong Concerning Medication For Inattentive ADHD
Medication For Inattentive ADHD
Children and adults with inattentive ADHD typically begin treatment by taking medication. It can improve the ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, but it is not a cure for the disorder.
Stimulants like methylphenidate (Adderall XR, Ritalin) aid in focusing for longer periods of time. Many prefer the long-acting formulations, which release medication throughout a day.
If your symptoms are mostly inattention, medications can aid in improving your ability to focus and complete tasks. Medicines can reduce ADHD symptoms for 70% to 80% adults and children. They can reduce distractions and fidgeting, stop people from interrupting others, and cut down on inability to finish tasks and forgetfulness. They also help to reduce depression and anxiety. Side effects are common for those taking stimulant medication however, they are typically temporary and can be controlled by monitoring them closely.
The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat inattentive ADHD. They are effective in reorganizing the messages sent to your brain in order to increase alertness. They come in the form of liquids, pills and patches. They are usually taken one time a day, either in the morning or early afternoon. Some are extended-release, which means they can last up to 16 hours. Lastly, some are immediate-release, meant to be taken whenever needed.
There are a myriad of stimulant medications however the most commonly used are methyphenidates and amphetamines. They can cause heart rate and blood pressure to rise, and are not recommended for children suffering from certain medical conditions. Some people who take them have a loss of appetite, headaches irritation, headaches, and trouble sleeping. They can also cause tics, which are repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. If you have an history of heart issues your doctor will need to do an EKG test before prescribing these medications.
These medications can help to improve inattention ADHD however they are not able to solve organizational or social issues. Some studies have found that students with ADHD who take stimulants have lower GPAs compared to their peers with no ADHD, even if they don't have poor study habits. The differences are not large. Studies have also shown that when used alongside good study habits stimulants can dramatically improve academic performance.
There are also medicines that treat inattentive ADHD that don't stimulate the brain but still improve focus and attention. These are typically antidepressants such as Wellbutrin/Zyban, (bupropion), and Effexor, (venlafaxine). They don't alter your heart rate, but they do change how certain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, regulate mood and behavior.
Many people who suffer from inattention ADHD may try a variety of drugs before settling on the one that is right for them. It takes time to find the best treatment. It's also normal to need to adjust your medications over time, based on significant changes in your life or when your needs change.
If you have inattentive ADHD Your family physician can refer you to a specialist who can assess your condition and give you an order for the most appropriate medication. These specialists can include psychologists, psychiatrists or doctors who specialize in mental health, nurse practitioners or physician assistants. They may also offer cognitive behavior therapy which teaches you to manage your emotions and attention by teaching you coping techniques. You can also utilize self-management techniques such as using a planner to keep track of your schedule, taking class notes and repeating yourself while making plans or reminders. In addition, a balanced diet and regular exercise can boost your mood and levels of energy.