Why Adding A Medication For Inattentive ADHD To Your Life Can Make All The Difference
Medication For Inattentive ADHD
Children and adults who suffer from inattentive ADHD usually begin treatment by taking medication. It can help improve concentration and reduce impulsivity but it's not a cure for the condition.
Stimulants like methylphenidate (Adderall XR or Ritalin) aid in staying focused for longer periods. Many people prefer long-acting formulas that release medications throughout the day.
If your symptoms are mainly inattention, medication can aid in improving your ability to concentrate and complete tasks. Medicines ease ADHD symptoms in 70 to 90% of children and adults who use them. They help reduce distractions and fidgeting, stop people from interrupting others and also reduce forgetfulness and difficulty finishing things. They can also reduce anxiety and depression. People who take stimulant medications frequently suffer from side effects, however they usually don't last long and can be easily controlled with careful monitoring.
Medications for inattentive ADHD are most commonly stimulants, which work by streamlining signals that are sent to the brain in order to make people more alert. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, and patches. They are usually taken once every day, usually in the morning or early afternoon. Some are extended-release, meaning they can last up to 16 hours. Lastly, some are immediate-release and designed to be taken as needed.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are among the most popular stimulant drugs, though there are a variety of them. They can cause heart rate and blood pressure to rise, which is why they're not recommended for children suffering from certain medical ailments. People who take them may experience headaches, loss of appetite irritation, headaches, and trouble sleeping. They can also cause tics, which are repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. Your doctor will request an EKG before prescribing this drug in case you have a heart condition history.
While these medications can help improve inattentive ADHD symptoms, they do not solve issues with social skills or organizational capabilities. Numerous studies have demonstrated that students with ADHD who take stimulants even when they don't have poor study habits, achieve lower GPAs. However the differences aren't that significant. Other studies have found that stimulants when combined with good study habits can dramatically improve academic performance.
There are also medicines for inattention ADHD that do not act as stimulants, but they do aid in improving focus and attention. These are usually antidepressants, like Wellbutrin/Zyban (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). They don't affect your heart rate but do alter the way certain chemicals, referred to as neurotransmitters, regulate moods and behavior.
Many people who suffer from inattention ADHD experiment with different medications before settling on one that works for them. It takes time to determine the best treatment. It's normal to have to alter your medication over time based on life changes and your evolving needs.
If you're diagnosed with inattentive ADHD by your family physician they can refer you to a specialist who can assess your condition and recommend the most effective medication. These specialists are often psychiatrists or psychologists, but they can also be doctors who specialize in psychiatry or nurse practitioners or physician assistants. They might also provide cognitive behavioral therapy, which can help you manage your attention and emotions by teaching you coping strategies. You can also employ self-management strategies, such as using a planner to keep track of your schedule, taking notes in class and reciting yourself when making plans or reminders. A healthy diet and regular exercise can boost your mood and energy.