What Will ADHD Medications For Adults Be Like In 100 Years?
ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants can help regulate the levels of chemical messengers that control attention in the brain. They are first-line medications in the treatment of ADHD. Although they are not in any way habit-forming, they can trigger negative side effects, such as headaches and sleep problems.
Your doctor may also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most common medications prescribed for ADHD are stimulants. They balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. These are usually the first medications doctors prescribe, and they are able to reduce symptoms for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. They can have serious adverse negative effects, but they can't solve ADHD. Doctors usually prescribe different doses of stimulants to determine what works best for each person. The goal is to find a drug that is safe and efficient for long-term use while controlling symptoms with minimal side consequences.
The most well-known stimulant is methylphenidate, which is part of the class of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It is sold under a variety of brand names such as Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate enhances brain activity areas that control attention and behavior. It is available in immediate-release (small doses taken up to three times per day) or modified release tablets that allow the medicine to enter the bloodstream slowly over a longer time period. It is a highly effective drug that has low rates of abuse and addiction.
Some people with ADHD may also suffer from other mental disorders. In these cases, doctors might decide to treat the more severe disorder 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 goes for anxiety and tic disorders. A doctor can prescribe guanfacine or clonidine instead of stimulants to a patient with Tourette's Syndrome or other tics. These medications work quickly and are less likely to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant drugs can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They can also trigger side effects like irritability, headaches, trouble sleeping and decreased appetite. They are not recommended for infants under 8 years old. They should not be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding. They should not be used by those who have a history of or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. These drugs are also not recommended for those with a history of seizures or strokes.
adhd medication side effects of people with ADHD receive a mix of treatments that include medication, psychosocial therapy, or other treatments for behavioral issues. Behavioral therapy can help teach strategies such as self-talk anger management and organizational techniques to overcome the challenges of ADHD. Healthcare professionals can help by instructing supervisors and coworkers on ADHD and demonstrating how to work effectively with people who have the disorder. They can also offer accommodations at school and at work to help people with ADHD succeed. Employers are sometimes willing to be flexible in the way the work is assigned or allow employees to take breaks as needed. They can also provide more detailed explanations of assignments and allow employees more time to complete the assignments. This is especially useful when the employee is struggling to understand complicated instructions or concepts. In such cases, employers may provide training to employees to use assistive technology that will aid them in keeping up with their peers.